Hmeljnik Castle, Novo mesto, Slovenia

The Hmeljnik Castle is situated on a stone slope above the village of Karteljevo close to Novo mesto, dominating the views from the valley and from the road Ljubljana - Bregana. The castle was first mentioned in 1217. Its original masters are not known - they were probably the Lords of Višnja gora, possibly also the Lords of Hopfenbach or Hmeljnik whose family line was terminated in the 14th century. The castle has subsequently been owned by the Auerspergs for at least three hundred years; the castle had many masters since the times of the Auerspergs, including the Wamboldts that resided in it until the World War II.

The original Hmeljnik Castle from the late 12th century is a typical vaulted castle with two Roman palazzos and a staircase tower. In the Gothic period, the southwest tower and its east wing as well as the castle chapel of Saint Pancras were added. A double fortress wall with circular towers was built during the times of Turkish attacks, and a Renaissance archway was added, flanking the inner courtyard - this structure was demolished after World War II. The castle was burnt down in 1942 and its remains subsequently detonated. In the late 1950s, the ruins were slowly rebuilt, gaining a new roof structure and static consolidation.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Catherine Hunt (6 months ago)
We were on a roadtrip from Zagreb to Ljubljana and wanted to stop somewhere along the way. We found this hidden gem. It is an abandoned castle with beautiful view of the valley. We went inside and had to be careful walking around since the walls were crumbling. It was interesting to read the history on the website.

Andrei Belashou (2 years ago)
This is an abandoned castle from 13th century, which was changed owners all the time and was burned down during the WW2. Since 1999 it obtained cultural heritage status and is under protection. This place is very atmospheric, however entrance is forbidden and the territory is not safe - destruction danger. Unfortunately, looks like there are no active renovation works. It's possible to reach this place by car, but the road is quite narrow and difficult (expect for all terrain cars). However, the there is a beautiful hiking path

O M (3 years ago)
If you are interested of abadoned places this is a gem, inside and out! ??

Dan L (5 years ago)
The Castle not allowed for visiting because is ruins and falling apart, But is still very charming

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Klearchos Kapoutsis

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The castle first mentioned in 1200 was originally owned by the King and later, at the end of the 13th century it fell in hands of Matúš Èák. Its owners alternated - at the end of the 14th century the family of Stibor of Stiborice bought it.

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The history of the castle is the subject of different legends.

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