Bled Castle

P3

Overall view

The Bled Castle, a medieval castle in the Slovenian town of Bled, stands on a 139 meters high cliff above the Lake Bled. It is considered the oldest castle in Slovenia.

History

The first mention of the castle dates back to May 22, 1011, when Emperor Henry II to the Bishops of Brixen left the castle, the castle was henceforth for several centuries in the possession of the diocese of Brixen. The castle lies in the Mark Krain 1278 came to the house of Habsburg, and thus Austria. 1838 was the castle to Viktor Ruardu, the owner of the iron works of Jesenice sold. As a result, the castle was sold several times, until it passed into state ownership in 1937.

Building

The oldest part of the castle is the Romanesque tower. 1511 and 1690 earthquakes shook the region, which also attracted the castle affected. Then other towers were built and strengthened the fortifications. Later additions are from the Renaissance period. The buildings are located around a central courtyard and are connected with stairs to each other. The chapel located in the upper courtyard dates from the 16th century, but the 17th century was restored and painted with frescoes. The castle has a drawbridge which spans over the upstream ditch. In the upper part of the courtyard are the residential buildings in the lower part of the farm buildings.

The interiors of the castle are now used as a museum and restaurant.

Lower courtyard

Lower courtyard

Lake with the castle