Bled Castle
Bled Castle is a medieval castle built on a cliff above the city of Bled in Slovenia, overlooking Lake Bled. According to written sources, it is the oldest Slovenian castle and is currently one of the most beautiful historical sites in Slovenia that attracts many tourists. Today, the castle is used as a historical museum with a collection that represents the history of the lake.
The castle was first mentioned in a donation deed dated 22 May 1011 issued by German Emperor Henry II in favor of the Bishops of Brixen, and it was their residence for eight centuries. Then situated in the March of Carniola, it was moved to the Austrian House of Habsburg in 1278.
The oldest part of the castle is the tower in the Romanesque style. During the Middle Ages, more towers were erected and the fortifications were improved. Other buildings were built in the Renaissance style. The buildings are arranged around two courtyards connected with a staircase. There is a chapel in the upper courtyard, which was built in the 16th century and renovated around 1700 when it was painted with illusionist frescoes. The Bled Castle also has a drawbridge over a moat.
Location: Bled
