Spiš Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Zehra, Slovakia
Spiš Castle is a large fortress complex near Žehra built on a distinctive limestone hill with multiple courtyards and towers. The site consists of several fortified sections and buildings that reflect different periods of medieval and later construction.
The fortress was founded in the 12th century to serve as a border stronghold for the Hungarian kingdom. Over several centuries it was repeatedly rebuilt and expanded before eventually falling into ruin.
The structure reveals how different building styles were layered over time as the castle served various rulers and military purposes. You can observe how each era left its mark on the stone walls and layout.
Access to the site varies by season, with limited visiting conditions during colder months and better access during warmer weather. Sturdy footwear is recommended as paths are steep and uneven in places.
A major fire in the late 1700s left much of the fortress destroyed, paradoxically allowing it to remain visible as a multi-period architectural complex. The damage that halted occupation also preserved the layers of construction spanning several centuries.
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