Hrad Bodoň - OOCR Šariš

Bodon Castle It is built on a prominent, circular rocky outcrop at an altitude of 855.2 metres. It has several names – the circular shape of the rock gave the castle its name in the Middle Ages Kerekku (Round Rock). The Slavic inhabitants of the surrounding area named it, due to its distinctive protruding shape, Poppy. The third name is Bodoň according to its founder – the nobleman Budun of Ploské.

From the history of Bodoň Castle

The first written mention of the castle dates back to 1285, when Budun had it built. According to surviving documents, members of his family (his wife and children) took refuge here during the Tatar invasions at the end of 13. and beginning. 14th century. The settlement in the Middle Ages was not long-lasting, but a rescue archaeological excavation uncovered several structures, including the foundations of the main tower. This tower, together with the visible ramparts of the former walls, are the most prominent remains of the castle. Traces of the castle’s fortifications can also be seen today on the rocky plateau. There are no other traces of masonry structures. However, it is assumed that wooden dwellings and farm buildings once stood on the plateau.

Bodoň Castle is, in terms of its altitude, one of the highest-altitude medieval castles in Slovakia. It covers almost the entire summit plateau, measuring 52 by 50 metres. The rock faces are up to 20 metres high.

The high rock walls, especially on the eastern and southern sides, serve as training walls for rock climbers.

There is a possibility of barbecue near the castle, and there is also a spring of drinking water nearby.

Bodoň Castle is a part of Šariš Castle Road.

Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ

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How to get to the castle: You can reach the castle from the Dark Forest via the footpath marked with yellow tourist signs, just beyond the village of Zlatá Baňa. Turn right onto the forest track leading up to Makovica Hill and from there continue to the rocky outcrop on which the castle once stood. The path continues to the village of Abranovce, and you can also take the route in the opposite direction.

The most scenic and quickest route, which is also suitable for cyclists, runs through the Rácová Valley along a tarmac forest track to the Heteť Pass, where the route ends and joins the yellow trail. Turn left towards Pusté pole (Zlatá Baňa). After a short climb, you’ll reach a plateau dominated by a huge rock face.