Spiš Castle is one of the largest Medieval castles in central Europe. Dating back to the early 13th century, this imposing fortification stands 634 metres (2080ft) above sea level on cliffs dominating the Spiš region in eastern Slovak Republic. It was once one of the most important Gothic castles in Europe and was owned by the Royal Family. It was declared a national monument in 1961 and attempts were made to restore it in order to make it accessible to the public. The castle has a small museum which is open to the public and documents the history of the castle during its prime in the late Middle Ages. Although many parts of the castle’s Gothic tower, chapel ramparts and dungeons still stand in ruins, there are fine views of the surrounding countryside from the summit of the hill.
Air: Bratislava Airport. Road: Car: The castle can be reached from the Šibenik Pass (from the east and from Levoca). Foot: Visitors should approach the castle from the town of Spišské Podhradie.

Spissky Hrad, 05304 Spišské Podhradie, Slovak Republic
Tel: (053) 454 1336
Website: www.spisskyhrad.sk

Slovenskej agentúry pre cestovný ruch (Slovak Tourist Board)
Nám. L Stura 1, PO Box 35, 974 05 Banská Bystrica, Slovak Republic
Tel: (048) 413 6146-8. Fax: (048) 413 6149. E-mail: sacr@sacr.sk
Website: www.slovakiatourism.sk
Embassy of the Slovak Republic
25 Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4QY, UK
Tel: (020) 7313 6470 or (09065) 508 956 (recorded visa information; calls cost £1 per minute).
Fax: (020) 7313 6481.
E-mail: mail@slovakembassy.co.uk
Website: www.slovakembassy.co.uk