Educational trail Jelšava Old Castle

Deeper in the forests of the Revúcka Highlands, only parts of this smaller noble residence remain hidden. It was built in the 1330s. The castle became the center of the Jelšava estate and the seat of the owners from the Ratoldovci family of Jelšava. Its greatest glory was experienced in the last third of the 14th century, when its owner was Leustach of Jelšava. The source of Leustach's wealth, as well as the rise of his career at the royal court, was the deposits of iron ore.

During the reign of King Sigismund, the towns of Jelšava and Debrecín were centers of domestic trade in Hungary, increasing the importance of Jelšava Castle. However, it was not destined to become a majestic castle in the Revúca region. Its glory and use declined with the gradual relocation of the nobility to the towns. With the rising importance of Muráň Castle, Jelšava Castle began to deteriorate.

Not much has been preserved from the castle. The best visible feature is the floor plan in the form of a stone foundation. How it once looked and many other details are revealed by the educational panel directly at the castle.

By hiking on foot directly from the Jelšava City Museum, you can reach the castle following the tourist trail in about 70 minutes. The reward for the final steep climb will be beautiful views of the town of Jelšava.