Ozalj Castle, Medieval castle in Ozalj, Croatia.
Ozalj Castle is a stone fortress positioned 147 meters above the Kupa River and features a quadrangular tower with a Gothic chapel inside. The complex includes defensive walls and several interior spaces that visitors can explore.
First documented in 1244, the fortress passed to noble families including the Frankopan and Zrinski, who influenced medieval Croatian development. Under their rule, the structure was expanded and served as both a defensive and residential stronghold.
The castle museum holds medieval weapons, religious objects, and paintings by local artist Slava Raškaj, who was part of the Ozalj artistic circle. These collections reflect the tastes and interests of the noble families who occupied the fortress.
Access to the castle is via a bridge that replaced the original drawbridge at the entrance. Today the site is maintained by the Brethren of Croatian Dragon and open to visitors.
Inside the fortress, Gothic inscriptions and wall paintings have been discovered that reveal details about medieval Croatian architectural and artistic traditions. These details show how residents expressed their status and taste through artistic design.
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