Kežmarok Castle

Kežmarok Castle – a living castle in the heart of the city

Unlike most castles in Slovakia, here you won’t find a ruin on a hill, but a well-preserved castle right in the city center. Kežmarok Castle is the only completely preserved castle complex in the Spiš region and feels more like a noble residence than a military stronghold.

Its story begins in the 15th century when it was established as a defensive city castle. Over time, it transformed into a representative Renaissance residence of the nobility, particularly the Thököly family.

The result is a place where history is not only observed but also experienced.

What makes Kežmarok Castle exceptional

the only completely preserved castle in the Spiš region
a castle right in the city – without a demanding ascent
extensive interior exhibitions
a combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles

Experiences by age groups

Families with children

easy access suitable for smaller children
guided tour of courtyards, tower, and chapel
interesting exhibitions (weapons, historical artifacts)

Young people and couples

attractive spaces for photography (arcades, courtyard, interiors)
connection of history with the city center
stories about noble families and personalities

Adults and history enthusiasts

The permanent exhibitions are among the main reasons to visit the castle:

history of the town of Kežmarok
historical weapons and military equipment
burgher culture and life in the city
development of crafts and guilds
pharmacy from the 18th – 19th centuries with original furnishings
sacred art and chapel
portraits of nobility and burghers
the Thököly family and its significance in the region
Kežmarok and the High Tatras – the historical connection of the city with tourism

These exhibitions cover the period from the Middle Ages to modern times and are located in authentic settings of the castle.

Seniors

easy accessibility
clear and peaceful tours
possibility to combine with relaxation in the city

Most interesting parts of the castle

entrance tower with defensive elements
Renaissance arcades in the courtyard
Baroque castle chapel
historical interiors with exhibitions
lapidarium with stone artifacts

What to see in the surroundings

Historic center of Kežmarok

bourgeois houses and town hall
pedestrian zone with cafes

Wooden Articular Church in Kežmarok

unique wooden structure listed in UNESCO

High Tatras

quick accessibility
ideal combination of history and nature

How to fully enjoy the trip

allocate approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the castle tour
combine your visit with a stroll through the city center
combine with an excursion to the Tatras or Spiš Castle

Reality without embellishment

If you expect a dramatic silhouette on a hill, this castle offers a different type of experience. If you want to see authentic interiors, historical exhibitions, and understand life in the city and at the castle, it is one of the most valuable places in the Spiš region.

Kežmarok Castle