LIETAVA CASTLE (LIETAVSKÝ HRAD)

Built in the 13th century to counter Tartar invasions, it served to protect the Rajčanka River valley until the late 17th century. Renovated during the 15th and 16th centuries, it was transformed by Italian artists to meet Renaissance tastes without losing its defensive function. It was gradually abandoned in the 18th century, when it was used as a stone quarry for the inhabitants of the neighbouring villages.