Most Fortified Buildings in The World

By James • Last Updated October 27, 2024

Predjama Castle, Slovenia

Nestled in Slovenia, Predjama Castle is one of the most impregnable castles in the world, perched on a rock wall at a height of 123 meters. With a history spanning over 700 years, the first official mention of the castle dates back to 1202. Throughout the centuries, it has belonged to various chivalric orders and has hosted jousting tournaments and medieval banquets.

Despite its formidable location, crafty robbers managed to infiltrate the castle in the 17th century and make off with many valuable items. In response, the owner decided to construct a secret escape route known as the Vipavsky Passage, which was kept a secret for many years. Unfortunately, this hidden entrance has not survived to the present day. Today, visitors can only access the castle via the upper trail that begins in the mountains and winds through the forest.

For many years, Predjama Castle has served as a venue for fascinating historical events, including jousting tournaments and lavish banquets. One of the notable events is dedicated to Erazim Iamskoy, one of the castle’s most famous owners. Tours of the castle are available only from May to September, and all excursions are conducted by experienced guides. The upper trail traverses a series of dense forests and mountain caves that serve as the habitat for a colony of bats. As a result, the castle remains closed for much of the year when the bats hibernate during the cold months, to avoid disturbing these small inhabitants.