The beauty of Croatian castles, towers, and ramparts on the stunning Adriatic coast was not lost on renowned film directors and producers, who chose these magnificent monuments of the past as the backdrop for numerous global blockbusters
Croatia is home to hundreds of castles, fortresses, and towers. The awe-inspiring buildings with walls that speak in whispers of the past and reverberate with the echo of legends will thrill you with their architecture and romantic backdrop. As you make your way to these spectacular monuments, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful scenery and lush landscapes, with numerous engrossing folk tales to kindle your imagination. Become a prince or princess for a day and set foot into Croatian fairy-tale castles. Croatia is a country where fairy tales are still very much alive.
The beauty of Croatian castles, towers, and ramparts on the stunning Adriatic coast was not lost on renowned film directors and producers, who chose these magnificent monuments of the past as the backdrop for numerous global blockbusters. The Croatian version of Game of Thrones is a special adventure that allows you to experience the enchanting town of Trogir and Kamerlengo Castle, the fierce beauty of Klis Fortress, the grandiose Ston walls, and the other-worldly views of Dubrovnik.
Medvedgrad
Since the 13th century, the Croatian capital of Zagreb has been under the watchful eye of a magical medieval fortress resting on the verdant slopes of Medvednica. Medvedgrad got its name after the mountain on which it was built, and in addition to the beautiful view, it hides numerous legends and tales of history. The mighty walls of the fort were the home of the fearsome Countess Barbara of Cilli (Barbara of Celje), who was popularly known as the Black Queen. Today, this gem serves as a museum where you can find out about the history of the city and the magical forests of Medvednica, as well as enjoy a great view of Zagreb.
Trakošćan
The picturesque region of Hrvatsko Zagorje is located just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Croatia’s largest city. Dotted with numerous castles, silent reminders of the glory of bygone eras, the area’s dreamy hills showcase all the splendour of nature. With its stone-cast armour shining like a pearl in the sun, Trakošćan Castle is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful castles in Croatia. This magnificent building was erected at the end of the 13th century, and in addition to the museum, in Trakošćan you can also enjoy a romantic walk through the beautiful park and park-forest around the lake.
The picturesque region of Hrvatsko Zagorje is located just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Croatia’s largest city. Dotted with numerous castles, silent reminders of the glory of bygone eras, the area’s dreamy hills showcase all the splendour of nature. With its stone-cast armour shining like a pearl in the sun, Trakošćan Castle is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful castles in Croatia. This magnificent building was erected at the end of the 13th century, and in addition to the museum, in Trakošćan you can also enjoy a romantic walk through the beautiful park and park-forest around the lake.
Veliki Tabor
A key role in the fairy tale about Zagorje was also played by the Veliki Tabor castle, an extraordinary monument of architecture, cultural heritage, and captivating chronicles, located at the top of Hum Košnički. Apart from the beautiful view of the green tapestry of Hrvatsko Zagorje and its museum with valuable exhibits, Veliki Tabor is also known for its beautiful and touching story of Veronika Desinićka and the counts of the Celje family. This centuries-old tale of love and tragic fate comes to life during the winter nights when the sobs of the beautiful girl can be heard echoing through the castle’s hallways.
Oršić, Gjalski & Bežanec
When you are in Zagorje, one of the most interesting places you can visit is certainly Oršić Castle which houses the Museum of the Peasants’ Uprising. There you can learn about the life of Matija Gubec, a remarkable leader who occupies a special place in the history of Croatia.
If you are looking for different experiences and authentic accommodation, then the Gjalski and Bežanec castles are the perfect options for you. Immerse yourself in the life of the Croatian nobility and enjoy the countryside setting and local specialities surrounded by the beautiful nature of Hrvatsko Zagorje.
Ozalj, Dubovac & Frankopan castle
Continental Croatia, and especially Karlovac County, hides a real wealth of medieval architecture. One of the most beautiful examples is Ozalj Castle, situated on a steep cliff, with mighty towers commanding a view of the river Kupa. In the town of Karlovac itself, attractions include Dubovac Castle, named after the dense oak forest that once surrounded it, overlooking the town from a strategic position.
Frankopan Castle located above the Dobra river gorge, a stone fairy tale surrounded by dancing fairies, mystical legends, and beautiful landscape, is more than a good enough reason to pay a visit to the town of Ogulin.
Stara Sušica
For fans of fantasy literature and the Harry Potter franchise, we recommend Stara Sušica Castle in Gorski Kotar, which looks like the Croatian version of Hogwarts, and you can hone your magic skills in the magical forests of Kamačnik Canyon and Vražji Prolaz nearby.
Numerous fairy-tale castles and towers also await on “The Routes of the Frankopans”. With 17 castles and fortresses, this unique “time machine” project will teleport you into the life of one of the most powerful Croatian noble families.
Pejačević & Eltz
The east of Croatia is home to magnificent castles and manors that watch over the fertile plain of Slavonia like ancient sentinels. In Našice, the large and small Pejačević manors seduce visitors with their charm, the beauty of their architecture, and the romantic atmosphere of the surrounding park with a pond. The elegant facade of Eltz Manor in Vukovar hides traces of the city’s turbulent and complex history, and behind its walls, you can hear the flow of the mighty river Danube, the lifeblood of the city.
Radmila Kovačević
