Spiš Castle and Spiš Chapter (Spišská Kapitula) form one of the most important historical and cultural complexes in Slovakia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site bears witness to the rich and dramatic history of the region. Spiš Castle, majestically towering on a travertine hill above the village of Spišské Podhradie, is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Central Europe. Its history dates back to the 12th century and over the centuries it has been home to kings, nobles and soldiers. After a fire in the 18th century, the castle was abandoned, but its ruins still retain their monumentality.
The castle complex is extensive and you should allow plenty of time to explore it. You can walk along the walls with a breathtaking view of the Spiš basin, visit the castle museum, which the history of the castle and life in the Middle Ages, or just stroll around the courtyards and imagine how life used to be lively here.
The Spišská Kapitula, nicknamed the "Slovak Vatican", is also part of this unique heritage. This ecclesiastical settlement is full of historic buildings and its dominant feature is the Romanesque-Gothic St Martin's Cathedral, which is the centre of the Spiš Diocese. A walk around the Spišská Kapitula is peaceful and informative. You can see the historic houses once inhabited by canons, as well as the Bishop's Palace. The combination of the majestic castle and the peaceful Chapter House creates a unique contrast and a profound experience.
Location: Spišské Podhradie
Specificity: UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the largest castles in Central Europe, Spiš Chapter
Suitable for: History lovers, families, full-day trips
Distance from Chamois Apartments: approximately 50 km