Kalec Castle

Kalec Castle is a castle ruin located near the source of the Pivka River at approximately 618 meters elevation. A single tower and sections of defensive walls remain standing against the hillside landscape.

The castle was built in the mid-17th century by the Steinberg noble family and later came under the ownership of the Auersperg family. It was abandoned after World War I and gradually fell into ruin.

The ruins carry a name reflecting their geographical setting and appear in regional historical records as a noted location. Visitors today can explore the remains and sense the connection between this site and the surrounding terrain.

The ruins are accessible via the Krpan Hiking Trail, which passes through a line of chestnut trees leading to the site. Visitors should prepare for the elevation and bring suitable hiking gear.

During World War II, the ruins served as a meeting place for the antifascist resistance group TIGR. This hidden chapter makes the site significant to local resistance and liberation history.

Location: Municipality of Ilirska Bistrica

GPS coordinates: 45.64154,14.24569

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:28