Gracar Turn, Renaissance castle in Hrastje, Slovenia
Gracar Turn is a Renaissance castle in Hrastje featuring a multi-story residential structure arranged within a rectangular fortified complex. Two square towers anchor the corners of this compact defensive arrangement.
The Grätzer family from Gradac built the original manor on this site in the 14th century, giving the fortification its name. The structure underwent renovations, particularly following damage sustained during the 20th century.
The writer Janez Trdina created several literary works while staying here as a guest, contributing to the place's role as a center for cultural production. His time spent in this location shaped regional storytelling traditions.
The castle sits on the northern edge of Hrastje, near the Carthusian monastery of Pleterje in southeastern Slovenia, making it accessible as part of a broader visit to the region. The location allows visitors to explore medieval and religious sites in the same area.
Partisan fighters damaged portions of the castle during World War II, requiring extensive restoration work that reshaped the building's appearance. Traces of this conflict remain visible in the structure today.
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