Šariš Castle

Šariš Castle (Veľký Šariš, Prešov Region) is one of the largest castle complexes in Slovakia and also one of the most significant landmarks of the Šariš region. It is situated on a hill above the town Veľký Šariš and offers a unique blend of history, views and experiences.

From the history of Šariš Castle

Šariš Castle was built on the initiative of the King of Hungary in a strategically important position dominating the vast territory of Šariš. Its location meant not only military control of the surrounding area, but above all control over important regional and trade communications to Spiš and Poland.

Over the centuries, it came into the possession of several prominent noble families and also played an important role during the battles against the Turks. Throughout its history, the castle was visited by several Hungarian kings, including Béla IV and Matthias Corvinus. Later, it gradually lost its importance and began to fall into disrepair following an explosion caused by gunpowder.

The second-largest castle in Slovakia

In terms of area, Šariš Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in Slovakia — it is considered the second largest after Spiš Castle. The castle hill rises to a height of approximately 570 metres and is the remnant of ancient volcanic activity; the castle’s core itself was built on the site of a former volcanic crater. From the extensive complex, massive walls, the foundations of palaces, towers and farm buildings have survived to this day, giving a sense of the fortress’s former grandeur and strategic importance. It is precisely its size and location that make Šariš Castle one of the most impressive castle panoramas in the region.

The present of the castle

The castle is currently being slowly restored and is open daily throughout the year. It offers a permanent guided tour service with the Donjon Tower dominating the restored tower. In good weather and visibility, visitors can enjoy views of three neighbouring landscapes, more than 6 castle ruins in the surroundings and the High Tatras.

Šariš Castle offers panoramic views of the wide surroundings of Šariš, a tour of the extensive castle grounds with an authentic atmosphere, a number of events throughout the year (medieval days, craft workshops, thematic events) and experiential activities for families, schools and tourists. It is connected to the Archaeopark in the castle's substructure, which brings the life of our ancestors closer to life and thus completes the idea of life in the past.

The great advantage of the castle is its excellent accessibility - it is located just a few minutes from the regional city of Prešov or Košice with parking in the castle and a pleasant hiking trail to the castle.

Archaeological Park in the castle grounds

Right at the foot of the castle lies the Archeopark, which brings to life what life was like at the castle and in the surrounding area during the Middle Ages. Visitors can see examples of period buildings, crafts and the way of life of our ancestors, making a visit to the castle a particularly enjoyable experience for families with children and school groups. The Archaeological Park, together with the castle and its events, forms a single, comprehensive destination that combines learning about history with active relaxation in the countryside. An overview of the events taking place at the castle throughout the year can be found in Calendar of events at Šariš Castle.

Šariš Castle is very accessible:
- on foot (yellow hiking trail - approx. 1 hour)
- also suitable for cyclists (asphalt access road)
- by car to the car park under the castle + on foot
Access options:
- from the public transport stop „Veľký Šariš“
- from the railway station Veľký Šariš
- from Prešov (Sídlisko III - cycle route)
- from the car park under the castle
The access road is also a nature trail within a national nature reserve with 5th level of protection.

Šariš Castle is a part of Šariš Castle Road.

Tips for days out in the local area

You can combine a visit to Šariš Castle with other attractions in the region. Castle enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Kapušian Castle Also Zborov Castle in the north of Šariš. In nearby Prešov and the surrounding area, it’s well worth seeing Solivar – a unique national cultural monument relating to salt mining and production – and The Prešov Calvary, a Baroque complex overlooking the town.

Source: OOCR RŠ, Šariš Castle
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ