Hello everyone :)!
If you’re looking for a place that combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of unusality, Castle Mokrice in Slovenia is a must visit! This stunning castle is not only a historical gem but also a modern day retreat where you can relax, have a lunch, and travel back to the past. @ssekulji and I recently took a day trip here, and it was nothing short of magical.
History of Castle Mokrice
Mokrice Castle has a fascinating history that goes way back to 15th century. While many believe it was first mentioned in 1444, the earliest known reference actually comes from 1447, when it was indirectly mentioned as a landmark in a list of properties. Built as a replacement for the ruined Gracena Castle, Mokrice was strategically placed on a hill near the state border, making it a visible symbol of power and prestige for the Counts of Celje.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands multiple times, from the Sebriacher family to the Gregorians, who transformed it into a Renaissance style fortified castle. It later became the property of the Auersperg family, one of the most influential noble families in the region. The castle’s architecture reflects its storied past, with cylindrical towers, a Renaissance portal, and arcaded corridors that exude timeless elegance.
One of the most intriguing legends associated with the castle is that of Barbara, Countess Drašković, who is said to have thrown herself from the castle tower due to unrequited love. The castle also played a role in the great peasant uprising of 1573., with some suggesting that Matija Gubec, one of the uprising’s leaders, was imprisoned here. (There’s a “festival” in Croatia where they act out the fight between Gubec and village people).
After World War II, the castle was nationalized and repurposed for various uses, including a children’s shelter and a retirement home. Since the 1960s, it has been managed by Terme Čatež and transformed into a hotel, offering visitors a chance to experience its grandeur firsthand.
Exploring the Castle and Its Grounds
The castle’s triangular layout, reinforced with cylindrical towers, gives it a distinctive and imposing appearance. The stone bridge over the defensive ditch, built in 1854, adds to the sense of grandeur as you approach the entrance!
Inside, the castle has been beautifully preserved and adapted for modern use. The interior features classicist and neoclassical elements, with the most impressive rooms.
The castle’s park is another highligh. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed stroll, especially in the quieter area known as Tiha Dolina, where the Auersperg family cemetery is located!!
As someone with royal (blue) blood in my veins (I’ll write a separate post about that), visiting Castle Mokrice felt weirdly meaningful. There’s something about walking through the same halls and courtyards that once hosted noble families that makes you feel connected to the past. The castle’s atmosphere is welcoming, making it easy to imagine yourself as part of its storied history.
After exploring the castle, @ssekulji and I headed to their restaurant for lunch. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with a rustic yet elegant decor that complements the castle’s historic charm!The large windows let in plenty of natural light, offering a lovely view of the surrounding landscape. The restaurant was completely empty which made me think did noble families get bored by being alone most of the time, it was really quiet which I loved, it brought something special to the lunch :).
We started with beetroot tartare and pumpkin soup, both of which were beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. For the main course, we opted for the vegan cauliflower steak, served with caramelized beetroot and sweet potato chips. It was a delightful dish so creative, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying. The meal was a true reflection of the castle’s ability to blend tradition with modern culinary trends
While Castle Mokrice is a destination in itself, the surrounding area offers plenty of additional attractions. Just a 15 minute drive away, you’ll find the town of Brežice, where you can explore more historical sites or do some shopping. If you’re in the mood for relaxation, Terme Čatež is nearby, offering thermal pools and spa treatments :€.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the castle also has aa golf course which makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day. And if you’re a history enthusiast like me, there are several other castles in the area worth visiting.
Final Thoughts
Our day trip to Castle Mokrice was a perfect blend of history, nature, and culinary delight. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique place to visit, this castle has something for everyone. The combination of the past, beautiful architecture, makee it a truly special destination.