Beautiful nature surrounds this castle near Ljubljana, which is – officially described – “located on a carefully chosen location, above a spring on the edge of a rocky slope.” more

Endless hiking trails lead through the nearby woods. The environment was invaded as little as possible during the renovations between 2000 and 2004.

Many people come here solely to start their day trip. But in general, this castle serves as a venue of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (which has been managing the castle since 2006) and for a variety of events, such as weddings, concerts, congresses, chivalry games, forums, formal receptions, and protocol events.

And here are the key facts:

Official Name: Grad Jable (Slovene) / Burg Habach (German)

Status: Public Service/ Event Castle, emphasized as a “Cultural Monument of National Importance”

Parking: available directly in front of the castle or a little down the hill

Next City: Ljubljana (10 min.)

Location: Loka pri Mengšu, 1234 Mengeš

Age: Written sources say 1268, but supposedly it was built in 1530

History Wrap Up: Its last major changes are dated to after the 1895 earthquake. The castle’s rich equipment was lost during World War II, except from the work of the famous painter France Jelovšek from 1745. Original Renaissance wooden ceilings and balustrades were discovered and have been preserved, as well as a Baroque inlaid parquet.

Architectural Style: Renaissance character with a medieval layout

Bonus Fact: During the restaurations in 2004, people discovered a bronze solid-hilted sword after a heavy rain. It is one of the three oldest bronze solid-hilted swords that was found south of the Alps.