Predjama Castle

"A medieval castle was built into a cave. It sounds like a fairytale. It looks like one, too. But it's real--and it's one of Slovenia's most-popular tourist attractions. Predjama Castle (Predjamski grad) is a Renaissance castle that was built in the middle of a 75-foot cliff. The four-story castle was built over many centuries, from its start at the beginning of the 13th century to much of what you see now from the 16th century. Much of its lore comes from the 15th century, though. That's when it was ruled by Erasmus of Lueg, a robber-baron, who stole from the rich to give to the poor (sound familiar?). He believed the Austrians couldn't touch him in this impregnable fortress. (Spoiler alert: Not even the cave castle was immune to cannonballs.) The castle was rebuilt twice after this siege. The second time, following an earthquake, gave it its current Renaissance facade. You can now explore the different rooms and floors inside the castle. There is furniture in the living areas, dungeons, a secret tunnel, and an underground cave that's home to a colony of bats (open May to September). The views from the castle's open windows (the village of Predjama and Our Lady of Sorrows Church with hills full of pine trees in the background) are pretty impressive, too. Note: A free audioguide is available in 15 languages. It details the castle's history and highlights interesting aspects as you walk through each room."

"Predjama Castle, known as Predjamski grad in Slovenian, is a remarkable medieval fortress located near the town of Postojna in southwestern Slovenia. Perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the surrounding landscape, Predjama Castle is one of the most iconic and well-preserved castles in the country. Dating back to the 13th century, Predjama Castle is renowned for its strategic location and impressive architectural features. Built directly into the rock face of a limestone cliff, the castle appears to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, making it both a formidable defensive stronghold and a striking architectural marvel. Predjama Castle is perhaps best known for its association with the legendary knight and robber baron, Erazem Lueger. According to folklore, Lueger used the castle as a base for his daring exploits, including resisting a siege by the Holy Roman Empire for over a year. Today, Predjama Castle is open to visitors who can explore its historic interiors, including the castle's living quarters, armory, and dungeon. The castle also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and guided tours, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and medieval splendor. Its dramatic setting and fascinating history make it a must-see attraction for visitors to Slovenia."

"Just a few kilometers from Postojna Cave, the Karst world provides a magical experience in the enchanting world of knights. The medieval marvel, perched on a 123-meter-high cliff for over 800 years, is an impregnable fortress. Behind the world's largest cave castle, a network of secret tunnels can be found, used by the knight Erazem of Predjama for his plundering raids. The Cave beneath Predjama Castle is inhabited by a colony of bats."