Take a step back in time to Slovakia’s medieval era and the Austro-Hungarian Empire at Beckov Castle (Hrad Beckov). Explore a complex of semi-ruined stone buildings set inside fortified walls and perched high on a hilltop. Beckov Castle is a Gothic-Renaissance monument that dates back to the 1200s, when it was erected as a watchtower. It passed between the hands of royal and noble families before fire destroyed it in 1729.
Enter via an imposing barbican, complete with a drawbridge and moat, and then pass through a Gothic-style gateway to the lower courtyard. Here you’ll find a stage for activities and theatrical performances. Watch blacksmith demonstrations, falconry displays and reenactments of knight’s battles and musketeer duels acted out by costumed actors.
In the upper section, pathways travel between the remains of former palaces and squares and lead to hidden corners. Look out over the village of Beckov and toward the Little Carpathians from the defensive walls. Visit a chapel and the one-time dungeon.
Stop for a rest and to order drinks and snacks at the café, which sits elegantly in a palace courtyard. Adjoining the café is a small library that also functions as a free book exchange. Return to the lower courtyard and follow a winding path to the courtyard’s northern edge. Then descend a steep staircase to a wishing well and look back to admire the castle’s sheer walls.
Uncover the myths and legends of the castle. One states that Duke Citbor built it for his jester, Becko, but later repurchased it for Becko’s weight in gold. Another narrates that a servant cast a spell on his lord as he was being thrown to his death. The lord went on to meet his own fate at the same place after being bitten in the eye by a snake.
The castle is located in the village of Beckov, in western Slovakia. Public buses travel to the village from Nové Mesto nad Váhom and Trenčín.
Beckov Castle is open from March to November and there’s an admission fee. Guided tours are offered upon prior reservation. Pick up a map for a self-guided tour at the entrance.
