Oravský Podzámok · Slovakia
Oravský hrad — the eagle’s nest above the Orava
A medieval fortress perched on a cliff, home to the Orava Museum and one of Slovakia’s most photographed castles.
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Welcome to Orava Castle
One of Slovakia’s most spectacular castles
Rising sheer from a 112-metre limestone crag above the Orava River, Oravský hrad has guarded this valley since the 13th century. Today its terraced courtyards and 150-plus rooms hold the Orava Museum — and one of the country’s best castle views.
Discover the castle
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History & Architecture
Eight centuries of sieges and rebuilding — three castles stacked up the cliff, over 150 rooms, and the Orava Museum inside.
Visitor Info
Tours, seasonal opening hours, tickets and accessibility — everything you need before you arrive.
Bookings
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Find & Navigate
The castle on the map, with directions for your visit.
The “eagle’s nest”
A silhouette you may already know
The castle’s jagged profile climbing the rock has made it one of the most filmed and photographed landmarks in Slovakia. In 1922 it stood in for Count Orlok’s Transylvanian lair in F. W. Murnau’s silent horror masterpiece Nosferatu — and it has drawn film crews and photographers ever since.
What visitors say
Loved by travellers from around the world
One of the most beautiful castles I have ever seen. Perched high on a rock, the views over the Orava river are unforgettable and the guided tour was genuinely fascinating. Worth every one of the many steps!
A magical place with real history — you can feel it in every courtyard. Fun fact: the original Nosferatu was filmed here in 1922, and it absolutely looks the part. The night tour in summer was the highlight of our trip.
Absolutely stunning and well worth the trip to northern Slovakia. The museum inside is rich and varied, the staff were friendly, and the whole castle is beautifully kept. Wear good shoes — the climb is steep but the reward is incredible.