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. The name "Predjama" literally means "In front of the cave."
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 only way in was a narrow bridge. 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." Erazem was a knight who fell out of favor with the Habsburgs after killing a relative of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III in a duel. He fled to his fortress at Predjama and began raiding Habsburg estates.
The Siege
The imperial army, led by the Governor of Trieste, besieged the castle for a year and a day. They expected Erazem to starve, as the castle appeared cut off from the world. However, Erazem taunted them. He sent them fresh cherries in the spring and roasted meat in the winter, leaving the besiegers baffled.
The Secret Passage
Unknown to the attackers, Erazem used a secret natural shaft leading out through the cave system behind the castle to the top of the cliff. He used this to resupply the castle from the nearby village of Vipava, bringing in food and supplies under the noses of the enemy.
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 precariously over the cliff edge) to signal when Erazem was there. A single cannonball was fired, striking the thin wall and killing the knight. It is a somewhat ignoble end to a heroic legend.
Inside the Cave
The castle interior is a maze of cold, damp rooms where the natural rock forms the walls. It is not a luxurious palace but a rugged fortress.
- The Torture Chamber: A grim dungeon located in a damp cave niche. It features a rack and other medieval instruments of pain, highlighting the harsh justice of the era.
- The Armory: A collection of medieval weapons, armor, and halberds.
- 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.
- The Living Quarters: You can visit the knight's room, the dining room, and the kitchen. Notice how the walls are often wet; the castle was notoriously difficult to heat and uncomfortably damp, which is why the nobles only lived there when necessary for safety.
Hollywood and Media Fame
Predjama's unique appearance has caught the eye of filmmakers and storytellers. It was featured in the Jackie Chan movie Armour of God, where the star performed stunts on the castle walls. It also served as a location for the TV series The Witcher. In 2008, the team from Ghost Hunters International conducted an investigation here, claiming to find evidence of paranormal activity, which further cemented its reputation as a spooky destination. The castle's blend of natural cave and man-made walls makes it the perfect setting for fantasy and adventure stories.
The Erasus Knight's Tournament
Every July, the castle travels back in time with the Erasus Knight's Tournament. This medieval festival brings the legend of Erazem to life. Knights in shining armor participate in jousting matches, archers demonstrate their skills, and the castle grounds are filled with medieval music, dancers, and jesters. It is the most vibrant time to visit the castle and offers a fun, educational experience for families.
Archaeological Treasures
The caves behind and below the castle have been inhabited since the Stone Age. Archaeological excavations have revealed a treasure trove of artifacts, including Roman coins, medieval ceramics, and even remains from the Bronze Age. These finds suggest that the strategic value of the cave was recognized thousands of years before the first stone of the castle was laid. Some of these items are on display in the Notranjska Museum in Postojna.
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. The temperature inside the cave section is constant at around 10°C. Bring a warm jacket and comfortable shoes.
- Audio Guide: The entrance fee usually includes an excellent audio guide that tells the story of Erazem in detail and points out features you might miss.
- Vertical Climbing: There are many stairs. The layout is vertical, following the cliff face.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I go into the caves behind the castle?
- Yes, during the summer months (May to September), you can take a guided tour of the cave system under the castle (Dzma Cave). It is home to a colony of bats, so it is closed in winter during their hibernation.
- Is it haunted?
- Paranormal investigators have visited Predjama, claiming it is one of the most haunted castles in Europe. Strange noises and footsteps are often reported in the torture chamber area.
- How do I get there?
- It is best reached by car or the shuttle bus from Postojna Cave Park. There is no direct train station at the castle.