Hrad

#10 among destinations in Slovakia

Forts and castles, Top attraction

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Facts and practical information

Perched atop a hill in the heart of Slovakia, Hrad Castle (often referred to simply as "Hrad") stands as a majestic testament to the country's medieval past. This formidable fortress, whose very name means "castle" in Slovak, has been a pivotal part of the region's history for centuries.

With its origins dating back to the 12th century, Hrad Castle has played a significant role in the political and cultural landscape of Central Europe. It has witnessed numerous sieges, royal successions, and has been the residence of many of Slovakia's most influential figures. Its strategic location made it a key defensive stronghold against invading forces throughout history.

The castle's architecture is a composite of styles, reflecting the various periods of construction and renovation it has undergone. Visitors to Hrad can explore its ancient walls, towers, and courtyards, each telling a different story of the castle's evolution. The site offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, which includes rolling hills, quaint villages, and the meandering rivers that have shaped the geography of the region.

Today, Hrad Castle is one of Slovakia's most treasured landmarks. It has been restored and preserved so that visitors can step back in time and experience the grandeur of medieval Slovakia. The castle also hosts a variety of cultural events, including historical reenactments, concerts, and exhibitions, which bring the past to life in a vibrant and engaging way.

Local name: Šarišský hrad Coordinates: 49°3'10"N, 21°10'28"E

Location

PrešovskýSlovakia

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Day trips

Hrad – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Co-Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Alexander Dukhnovych Theater, Krajské múzeum Prešov.

4.8 miSE
Church, Gothic architecture
Co-Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Prešov
123 min walk • The Co-Cathedral of St. Nicholas is a revered historical monument and a vital place of worship in the heart of Prešov, Slovakia. This church, which stands as a testimony to the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage, is an architectural marvel that dates back...
5.1 miSE
Church
Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Prešov
131 min walk • The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands as a monumental beacon of faith in the city of Prešov, Slovakia. This stunning church is an epitome of Gothic architecture, with its origins dating back to the 14th century.
4.8 miSE
Concerts and shows, Theater
Alexander Dukhnovych Theater, Prešov
122 min walk • The Alexander Dukhnovych Theater, located in Prešov, is the only Slovak theatre providing plays in the Rusyn language.
4.8 miSE
48°59'51"N • 21°14'23"E
Krajské múzeum Prešov, Prešov
124 min walk • History museum, Museum
1.2 miSW
Church
All Saints Church
32 min walk • All Saints Church is a Roman Catholic Church in Medzany, Saris region, Slovakia. The original church was built in 1330. A monastery stood in the field of the church from 1260 and the current church was probably built from its remains.
1.6 miE
Brewery, Nightlife
Šariš Brewery
41 min walk • Šariš Brewery is the largest brewery in Slovakia, located in Veľký Šariš near Prešov. Since January 1, 2007, the company Pivovary Topvar has operated in Slovakia, which is the combination of the existing breweries Pivovar Šariš and Topvar. Šariš Brewery was sold to Asahi Breweries of Japan on December 13, 2016.
4.6 miSE
Universities and schools
University of Prešov, Prešov
118 min walk • The University of Prešov is the only public university in the Prešov self-governing region of Slovakia. It focuses on the areas of social, natural, and theological sciences, sport, arts, management, and health care.
5.2 miSE
Universities and schools
Slovak Greek Catholic Church, Prešov
132 min walk • The Slovak Greek Catholic Church, or Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church, is a metropolitan sui iuris Eastern Catholic particular church in full communion with the Catholic Church and the Pope of Rome. Its liturgical rite is the Byzantine Rite.
4.2 miSE
Sport, Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue
Tatran Stadium, Prešov
107 min walk • Tatran Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Prešov, Slovakia. It is currently used for football matches as home ground of the Corgoň Liga club 1. FC Tatran Prešov. The stadium holds 5,410 spectators.