Hrad Šebeš, Medieval castle ruins in Podhradík, Slovakia
Hrad Šebeš are the remains of a castle located on a rocky hill near Podhradík in eastern Slovakia. The site still shows standing stonework, a tower structure, and a gateway that once controlled access to the inner courtyard area.
The fortress started as a wooden structure in the 13th century and was later rebuilt in stone to protect regional trade routes. A fire in the 16th century severely damaged it, partly due to deliberate destruction arising from local disputes over control.
The fortress reflects the medieval architecture typical of this region, with its heavy stone walls and tower that once provided protection. You can still see traces of its defensive role when walking across the grounds today.
The site is reachable via a marked trail from Podhradík village in roughly half an hour, with information boards along the way. The ruins are fairly exposed to weather, so sturdy shoes and caution on uneven ground are wise choices when exploring.
The ruins are the result of a conflict between Košice and Prešov, where control over the fortress led to deliberate destruction. This local power struggle shaped the building and explains why it appears so fragmented today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
