Predjama Castle (Predjamski grad) is a miracle of medieval engineering and one of the most dramatic castles in the world. Perched in the middle of a 123-meter (404 ft) high vertical cliff face, it is built directly into the mouth of a cave. It holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest cave castle in the world. Located just 9 km from the famous Postojna Cave, it offers a glimpse into a life where nature and architecture are inextricably linked.
History: The Impregnable Fortress
The castle was first mentioned in 1274, originally built in Gothic style by the Patriarch of Aquileia. Its location made it virtually impregnable. The current Renaissance-style castle was constructed in 1570 by the Kobenzl family, pressing tightly against the vertical rock face. The castle served as a hunting lodge and a refuge, but its most famous chapter involves a rebellious knight.
The Legend of Erazem Lueger
In the 15th century, the castle was the seat of Erazem Lueger (Erasmus of Lueg), a famous robber baron often described as the "Slovenian Robin Hood." After killing a relative of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III in a duel, Erazem fled to Predjama.
- The Siege: The imperial army besieged the castle for a year and a day. They expected Erazem to starve, but he taunted them by throwing fresh cherries and roasted meat over the walls.
- The Secret Passage: Unknown to the attackers, Erazem used a secret natural shaft leading out through the cave system to the top of the cliff. He used this to resupply the castle from the nearby village of Vipava.
- The Betrayal: Erazem was finally killed not in battle, but while using the toilet. A servant, bribed by the besiegers, lit a candle in the window of the outhouse (which hung over the cliff edge) to signal when Erazem was there. A single cannonball was fired, ending the siege.
Inside the Cave
The castle interior is a maze of cold, damp rooms where the natural rock forms the walls. Visitors can see:
- The Torture Chamber: A grim dungeon located in a damp cave niche.
- The Armory: A collection of medieval weapons and armor.
- The Cave System: Beneath the castle lies the second-longest cave system in Slovenia. A section of it serves as a stable, and during the winter, it becomes a hibernation spot for a colony of bats.
Visitor Tips
- Combined Tickets: Most visitors combine Predjama with the nearby Postojna Cave. Buy a combined ticket to save money.
- Temperature: The castle is cold and damp even in summer because it is essentially inside a cave. Bring a jacket.
- Audio Guide: The entrance fee usually includes an excellent audio guide that tells the story of Erazem in detail.