Orava Castle – Oravský Podzámok, Slovakia - Atlas Obscura

Orava Castle

Oravský Podzámok, Slovakia

The 700-year-old fortress was the site of Count Orlok's castle in "Nosferatu." 

210
702

Orava Castle is an eerie and majestic place, built high up on a rocky cliff over the winding Orava river. It is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval castles in Slovakia, dating back to the 13th century. 

Its long history starts as a military barracks built after a Mongol invasion to defend what was then the Kingdom of Hungary. Seven centuries later it still stands, now an elaborate neo-Gothic castle that holds many unique myths and legends. 

Notably, the striking exterior was used as the filming location for Count Orlok’s Transylvanian castle in the 1922 silent film Nosferatu, a claim to fame that adds to its haunting appeal.

Inside, a tour of the castle museum takes visitors through the knights’ room, paintings gallery, weapons room, and a collection of many scientific and archaeological artifacts.

Know Before You Go

Price of admission is about 8 euros per person, if you like to take photos on your tour it will cost an extra 3 euros. Special group rates are available. During the main Tourist season they do some great haunted night tours.

Community Contributors

February 20, 2018

Make an Edit Add Photos
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web