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ec u l T u R A l p u R s u I T s | t r a k o Š Ć a n c a s t l e

From its perch on Croatia’s Slovenian border, Trakošćan Castle has for centu-ries defended itself from invaders (and, according to legend, a dragon), yet its greatest challenge came in the aftermath of World War II. Nearly sixty years

after its conversion to a state museum, the castle has neared its restoration goal, and newly opened rooms and redesigned galleries now brim with an irrepressible charm.

croatia High above

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portrait hall

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rakošćan Castle rises from the Bednja river valley like something from a gothic novel—it isn’t hard to believe that a mythical beast existed. What began as a 13th-century observation post be-came home to a succession of noble families. It later joined the royal treas-ury and was ultimately given to the Drašković family in 1584, in apprecia-tion of military service. It remained in their possession until 1944, when they left the country for Austria, and the castle for ruin. Abandoned, it deterio-rated until 1953, when the state took ownership. “The castle is a rare histori-cal structure for Croatia,” says curator Andreja Eršetić, “as it contains materi-als original to its owners.” Its restora-tion has been an arduous, delicate, and on-going process.

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rococo gallery

mural room

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ollections (which include paintings, furniture, metalwork, ceramics, and weaponry) were initially displayed as 19th-century period rooms but are now installed stylistically. Of particular note is the Rococo gallery with its suite of estate-made furniture, illustrating the export of 18th-century French style to even the remotest hilltops of southern Europe. With such a wealth of material, “it was necessary to open previously inaccessible areas to visi-tors,” explains Eršetić, “particularly the kitchen, prayer room, armory, and dungeon.” The first floor is also newly opened and documents the structural development of the castle, as well as the family’s history. “It’s our goal to present our heritage in an interest-ing and attractive manner,” she adds, “and that visitors to Trakošćan have a memorable experience.”

The castle and parklands are open to the public year-round. For more infor-mation, visit trakoscan.hr.

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officers’ gallery

ifty miles north of Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city, primeval forests give way to a newly restored Trakošćan Castle. Once inside its formidable walls, a treasure trove of nearly 700 years is revealed.

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emore photos