Welcome
to the website of one of Slovenia’s most impressive historical landmarks, a medieval castle that has stood the test of time and emerged from a state of disrepair to become a hub of cultural, educational, social, and tourist activities.
This 12th-century Romanesque fortress has been meticulously renovated over the past 40 years, preserving its original character and charm while providing modern amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Podsreda Castle today
From self-guided tours of the castle interior with audio guides to guided tours with castle guides, cultural events, concerts and weddings, there is always something happening at this vibrant destination.
Alongside the exceptionally preserved castle architecture, guests can enjoy interesting exhibitions for children and adults, a treasure hunt adventure game, a Castle café, a shop selling local products, the Kozjansko Regional Park info center, and even book a special castle holiday at the four-star Rooms and apartments at the Podsreda Castle.
Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, this medieval castle is sure to captivate and inspire you.
The History of the Podsreda Castle
Its architectural history dates back to the 12th century when during the Romanesque period it experienced four independent and completely visible construction phases. Thus, the castle ranks among the most monumental properties in Slov¬enia but also enjoys a privileged position among Europe’s medieval castles.
“The most castle-like Slovenian castle” can be traced back to the 12th century when the northern wing was built around 1150 and the tall defensive tower or bergfried in 1180, the southern wing in 1220, and the tower with the chapel in 1260; in 1612 the chapel was consecrated by the Bishop of Ljubljana Tomaž Hren to Saint Philip, Jacob and Anna.
The castle’s original name Hörberg or Herberch reminds us of the old age of the building, since it means “shelter”, where sanctuary was sought by soldiers in case of danger, while today’s name Podsre¬da has no connection with the original name and probably denotes the day, which was very important for the square, since Wednesday (“sreda”) was a market and court day in Podsreda square.
After her death in 1045, the monastery was dissolved and the property passed into the ownership of the newly estab¬lished Diocese of Gurk.
Even though the castle was built in the mid-12th century, it was first mentioned in written sources in 1213.
In the first half of the 14th century the castle was bought by Frederick, Lord of Sanneck, and re¬mained in the ownership of the Counts of Celje until their passing. As the successors of the Counts of Celje, the ownership passed to the Hab¬sburgs, who rented it out. The leaseholders and stewards of the castle changed frequently. In 1617, Count Sigmund von Tattenbach bought the castle. In 1701, the castle was inherited by Coun¬tess Eleonora E. Barbo, and upon her death, by her daughter Maria H. of Apfaltrern, and in 1787 by Baron Franz Lazarini. Sometime before 1848, the estate was bought by Prince Weriand of Windisch- Graetz, who gave the castle its present-day image. The castle remained in the hands of the family until the end of the Second World War, when it was nationalized.
The castle is a local monument and is owned by the Kozje municipality. In 1983, the castle’s management was taken over by Kozjanski park. The same year its systematic renovation began, accompanied by a rich revival programme, which unites the Romanesque heritage with modern art.
Pod¬sreda castle, “Slovenia’s most royal castle”, is one of the few cul¬tural monuments originating from the Romanesque period in Slovenia that in the past 30 years, thanks to its complete renovation, has become an important holder of cultural, promotional, educational, so¬cial and tourist events.
