Čeklís Castle, Medieval fortification ruins in Bernolákovo, Slovakia.
Čeklís Castle consists of medieval ruins standing on Várdomb hill, where stone foundations and scattered walls remain from the original fortress. The site shows how much of the structure has disappeared, leaving mainly fragments that require some imagination to reconstruct.
The castle was built in the 13th century to guard roads east of Bratislava and served as a key defensive outpost for the kingdom. Military conflict in the early 16th century led to its abandonment and gradual decay as the structures were left to crumble.
The castle served as a key defensive position for the region and changed hands among different noble families over time. Visitors can see how this role shaped the structure that remains visible today.
The site can be accessed via a field path next to Saint Stephen Church, which is straightforward to follow. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the terrain is hilly and the route passes through open fields.
A water tower built in 1905 stands upon the medieval foundations, creating an unexpected mix of old and new architecture. This overlap shows how the site continued to serve practical purposes long after the castle itself was abandoned.
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