Zbojnícký Castle, Castle ruin in Ruská Nová Ves, Slovakia.

Zbojnícký Castle sits atop a rhyolite rock outcrop near Ruská Nová Ves, displaying the remains of medieval defensive construction. Partially preserved walls and stone foundations reveal how builders used the natural rock formation as part of the fortification.

A royal permit of 1288 allowed the castle to be built, though construction probably began at least ten years later. It replaced two earlier castles, now gone, on the territory of Solivar. Juraj Bokša had it built in the last years of the 13th century, and it is recorded as Castrum S(o)owar. The Šóš family held it, with interruptions, until 1671; the last mention dates from 1715, when it was demolished by decision of the regional assembly.

The castle's name shifted from Soľnohrad (Salt Castle) to Zbojnícky (Robber's Castle), and its owners took the family name Šóš. The Šóš family held the ruin, with interruptions, until 1671. The last record is from 1715, when the county assembly ordered it demolished.

The castle is accessible by a marked trail starting from Ruská Nová Ves village, taking about 30 minutes through forest paths. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the terrain is uneven and can be slippery in places, especially after rain.

The castle's name means "Robber Castle"; it was also called Soľnohrad, "Salt Castle", after the older strongholds at Solivar it replaced. A royal permission to build was granted in 1288, but construction likely began at least ten years later. The Šóš family held it, with interruptions, until 1671.