Spring is here, a time has come. Čachtice Castle is to say hello to tourist season opening its gates for all lovers of castles, history, tales and legends. In the castle above the village of Čachtice, famous especially for sadly known Blood Countess Elisabeth Báthory, the summer season will officially be opened the third weekend of April.
The Castle opens for its annual public opening with all the grandeur to commemorate the glorious past. The delicious fruit wines provided by fruiterer from Skalica, spit roasted fishes, hot Royal Chocolate or goodies from the local farm will please your taste buds. Great atmosphere will take over also thanks to knights from Vir Fortis historical group from Zvolen.
The program starts on Saturday at 10.00 a.m. when you can see how to conquer the castle. Then you can enjoy the performances of the Vir Fortis fencing ensemble, experience the Children's Medieval Day or the Knight's Race. Children may become members of the Royal Army or may even be militared to become knights or to join the court as ladies-in-waiting. Throughout the day, guided tours of the castle, the historic market, the craft fair or the period cuisine cannot be missed. Live music and plenty of attractions for children and adults will also be available.
Make your way to Čachtice, a place full of stories, heritage and traditions. Enjoy the two-day programme this weekend event will offer and have a nice time with your family and friends in beautiful surroundings.
The wealthiest and most powerful women of her time in the Kingdon of Hungary, the “Čachtice Lady” was a member of the noble House of Báthory who were princes of Transylvania, one of the most powerful Protestant families in this part of Europe. Báthory by birth, Elizabeth married Count Ferenc Nádasdy, a famous military commander in fights against the Ottoman Turks called the Black Knight of Hungary for his bravery, great courage, but also extreme cruelty and much respected also in the Ottoman army. After the death of a popular soldier who would go on to lead the armies of Hungary against Ottoman forces threatening Central Europe, his wife became the largest estates owner in country at the time. She is considered to be the world's worst female serial killer baceause of punishing and torturing of innocent girls as well as murdering them. The number of victims vary from dozens to over 650. A legend has it the Palatine Thurzo caught Báthory in the act. Being so influental, she was kept from facing trial. Elisabeth Báthory was imprisoned for life in the Čachtice Castle for her crimes. She had lived isolated on the castle until her death in 1614.
Infamous Čachtice Bloody Lady is still present in the area. In Čachtice, a larger than life-size wooden statue of the Countess is located on the main square of the village. A copy of the dress of Elisabeth Báthory made later by hands according to her preserved and also most known portrait can be seen in Draskovich Mansion. Also, red wine from Čachtice produced by local Agricultural Cooperative Farm is named after Elizabeth. If you dare, try the unique Báthory's Blood.
Web: The Čachtice Castle
