Tátika Castle
Tátika Castle is situated on a basalt peak of 413 meters near Zalaszántó, Zala County. It was named after its first owners, the Tátika clan. In the mid-13th century due to their overbearing practices the castle was confiscated by King Béla IV and passed to the Bishop of Veszprém, who further fortified it. Later the Lackfi family took possession of the castle and in the 15th century the Pető family of Gerse ruled the area.
The castle fell into decay in the 16th century when raiding Turkish troops robbed and burnt it. From then on it was referred to only as a ruin in documents. It was finished off by the Habsburg troops in the early 18th century when the remaining part was set on fire. The castle received a ‘facelift’ a few years ago as archaeological excavation and maintenance works had started.
Although only a little is left of it today, the walls that survived throughout history create a special atmosphere resembling a fantasy film scenery. Walking among the walls made of black basalt is like discovering the remnants of an ancient world fallen. Only dark tunnels, hidden chambers and treasure chests are missing. The castle is accessible via the Blue (K) Trail and the Blue L (KL) spur trail.
Opening hours
Price:
Free of charge
Public transport
- Bus service from Keszthely and Sümeg to Zalaszántó.
- Bus stop “Zalaszántó, Hidegkúti major” is the closest to the hill, however, some buses run along alternative routes.
- Otherwise get off at “Zalaszántó, Ádám utca” (the village center).
Getting there
- From bus stop “Zalaszántó, Hidegkúti major” head east along the Blue (K) Trail. Past 1.6 kms spur trail Blue L (KL) branches off and switchbacks 500 meters to the ruins. (total distance: 2.1 kms, elevation gain: 179 m)
- From the center of the village, that is bus stop “Zalaszántó, Ádám utca” head north and take the first right onto Blue+ (K+) trail (Vadász Street). The trail soon leaves the village and leads through a grove for 3.8 kms to join the Blue (K) Trail. Head left and past 1.6 kms continue along Blue L (KL) at the junction to the castle ruins (total distance: 6 km, elevation gain: 220 m).
Parking
- Park your car at “Hidegkúti major” and follow the picturesque dirt track to the castle through groves of old oaks and beeches.
- Park your car in Vadász Street, Zalaszántó to set off along Blue + (K+) trail.
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