Orava Castle (Oravský hrad) is a majestic medieval fortress perched atop a high rock above the Orava River in the village of Oravský Podzámok, northern Slovakia. Constructed in the 13th century, it is praised for its well-preserved interiors. The panoramic views of the surrounding Orava region from the castle's vantage points are always a delight. The castle's dramatic setting and well-preserved structures make it a must-visit destination.
Originally built after the Mongol invasion of 1241, Orava Castle evolved from a simple wooden fortification into a complex stronghold featuring Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic elements. The castle's strategic location allowed it to serve as a defensive bastion and administrative center throughout its history. Notably, it was featured in the 1922 silent film "Nosferatu," standing in for Count Orlok's Transylvanian castle.