Slanec Castle, Medieval fortress in District of Košice - okolie, Slovakia.
Slanec Castle is a medieval fortress in the Slanské vrchy Mountains, where a distinctive cylindrical tower rises from a hilltop overlooking surrounding valleys. The site contains preserved stone walls, a central defensive structure, and remnants from multiple building phases.
The fortress was founded in 1230 and originally served to control salt storage in the region. The Drugeth family significantly expanded it during the 14th century.
The castle's walls display construction methods from different periods, visible in how the stonework and defensive tower were built in distinct styles. Visitors can see how medieval builders adapted and reinforced the structure over generations.
The ruins are reachable from Slanec village via a roughly 15-minute walk that passes through forest and a landscape park. Wear sturdy footwear since the path has varying inclines and includes unpaved stretches.
The central tower was historically called Nebojsa and still offers views across the region. Its ruins demonstrate how medieval engineers designed defensive structures and positioned them within the landscape.
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