CHATEAU DE STARÁ ĽUBOVNIANSKY (ĽUBOVNIANSKY HRAD)

The particular silhouette of the castle of L'ubovňa, clinging to the rock overlooking the city, gives it a unique charm. Beautifully preserved because of its exposure and strategic location, this castle has welcomed many kings and queens throughout its history. Built at the end of the 13th century by Prince Boleslav, the castle was originally a Polish defence fortification on the Hungarian border. A palace was added to the fort at the beginning of the 14th century. From 1655 to 1667, the jewels of the Polish crown were secured there following the occupation of Poland by the Swedes. In 1772, the castle passed into Hungarian hands and was handed over to the city. Poorly maintained and damaged by successive wars, the castle was gradually renovated during the 20th century. Its visit remains interesting, if only for the panorama of the valley and the Magura massif. Nowadays, instead of the exuberant aristocracy of yesteryear, this fortress houses a museum. Its eye-catching exhibits will inform visitors about the history of the castle and the surrounding villages, and familiarize them with the trades of the time, the armed forces and the noble families associated with this region. An exhibition is dedicated in particular to Móric Beňovský (1768), future king of Madagascar, held here in prison. The exhibition on popular architecture is a major tourist attraction: an open-air museum located under the castle.