TRENCIN
The castle at Trencin is an inseparable part of the attractions embellishing the River Vah valley.
The castle is typical of the town of Trencin and a symbol of its environs. Its history dates back to the
Roman Empire, the proof of which is an inscription on the rock which announces the victory of the second
Roman legion over the Germans in 179 A.D. at Laugaritio. The castle was presumably erected in place of an
older castle which was modified by the more recent construction activity. The first buildings erected on
the hillock were a stone tower with living quarters and a rotunda from the llth century. In the early l4th
century the castle became the property of the former palatin Matus Cak. The construction activity continued
the reconstruction of the central tower and in the l3th century an additional palace was erected. In the
Gothic period the castle had several owners who improved its fortification system and modified it according
to the needs of the respective period. The most significant construction work was that encouraged by Stefan
Zapolsky in the late l5th century. The Renaissance erection activity of 1540-1560 was concentrated on
the living quarters as well as one restauration and updating of the fortification system. The fire
of 1790 affected also the castle which was only temporarily protected against the weather. The
restoration of the castle started in 1956 and it focused on the best preserved parts which were
used for museum purposes. This castle was also declared National historical monument by the Slovak
Government.
Roman text on Trencin rock...........
Illeshazy's gate
..........................
Courtyard with well
......................
Matthew's tower
