Trakoscan Castle

The castle of Trakoscan, comprising a forest park and a lake, is a unique example of a well-preserved monument, down to the original interiors: halls, libraries, dining rooms, bedrooms, guest-quarters, atelier, etc. Trakoscan is first mentioned in the 14th century, although its medieval fortress must have been built earlier. The first lords of Trakoscan were the counts of Celjski, powerful medieval aristocrats who possessed large swathes of modern day Croatia, Slovenia and Austria.

The Trakoscan estate later pass to many other owners until 1572 when Emperor Maximilian II issued a charter bestowing it, along with other smaller surrounding estates, upon the Draskovic family. The family retained ownership of the castle until 1942. The castle as we see it today is the result its reconstruction in the neo-Gothic style during the mid-19th century.

The then owner Juraj Draskovic had the castle garden put into order, a 14-acre artificial lake created by redirecting the Bednja stream and the whole castle re-furnished with family heirlooms and new furniture, thus transforming it into an exemplary residence. In 1953 the castle was converted into a museum open year round. As for its surroundings, a particularly valuable feature of this corner of Zagorje is the extremely relaxed and pleasant atmosphere of its well-preserved natural environment, away from the noise of the city.

Boats and pedalos may be rented for lake tours. Fishing is allowed and a walking path runs all along the lake. Near the castle there are several catering facilities and a B category hotel with facilities for conventions and seminars.

Tourist destination - Croatia - Destinations Varazdin county