Hrad Čičva

Sedliská, Slovakia, Slovakia

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Hrad Čičva is the ruin of a medieval castle overlooking the village of Sedliská in eastern Slovakia's Prešov Region, built between 1309 and 1316 as a guard fortress at the "Polish Gate" pass to protect trade routes into Poland and control a vast estate spanning over 60 villages. Held by noble families like the Rozgonyi for centuries, it passed through the Báthory and Drugeth lineages—linked to Elizabeth Báthory via her daughter's dowry—and housed the infamous 16th-17th century "Book of Lies and Liars" recording tall tales and deceivers. Captured by Rákóczi's rebels in 1704 and held until 1711, it was then demolished by imperial forces under General Laucken, leaving preserved walls with window and door openings amid scenic views, recently renovated as a 1963 cultural monument accessible by hike.