Castle of Beckov

Beckov, Slovakia, Slovakia

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Castle of Beckov is a striking Gothic castle ruin dramatically perched on a 50-meter limestone cliff above the village of Beckov in western Slovakia's Trenčín region, first mentioned around 1200 and originally built in the 12th century on the site of a 9th-century Great Moravian stronghold. Evolving from early stone fortifications—including a bergfried tower and palaces under royal control—to a Renaissance fortress with bastions, bay windows, and a chapel under influential owners like Stibor of Stiboricz and the Bánffy family, it withstood Tatar invasions in 1241 and Ottoman threats. Partially destroyed by fire in 1729 after Rákóczi's uprising, it now features conserved walls, a Knights' Hall, and exhibits in the upper castle, accessible via paths and offering panoramic Váh River valley views as a national cultural monument.