Date: 2. September 2025
Time to read: 1 min
Strmol Castle, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Slovenia, is located at the foot of Dvorjanski Hill near Cerklje in Upper Carniola. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when it was built by the Strmol knights, from whom the castle takes its name.
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The concept of the park's design around castle comes from 17th century. Photo: Strmol Castle archive
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Strmol Castle is one of the oldest and best - preserved castles in Slovenia. Photo: Luka Kotnik
Today, the castle is protected as a cultural monument of national importance and serves as a protocol site for the Republic of Slovenia, as well as a popular destination for visitors interested in exploring the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.
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It also serves as a location for protocol, culture and private events. Photo: Strmol Castle archive
The Hribars’ Sophistication and Influence on the Castle
The last private owners of Strmol Castle were Rado Hribar and his wife Ksenija Gorup. Rado Hribar was an influential industrialist, patron, and art enthusiast.
He was the first private owner of an airplane in Slovenia, co-owner of the Šumi candy factory, and president of the Ljubljana Car Club, Aeroclub, and Ljubljana Savings Bank.
His wife Ksenija, from the prominent Gorup family, was equally culturally and socially active. Together, they transformed Strmol Castle into a place combining art, culture, and social life. Their collection of artworks and valuable objects is now part of the permanent collection of the National Gallery.
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Ksenija and Rado Hribar are also the subject of Drago Jančar's 2010 novel "To noč sem jo videl" (I Saw Her That Night), which has been translated in more than 13 languages. Photo: UKOM archive
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Born in 1901 Rado Hribar was one of the richest men in interwar Yugoslavia. He was not just a highly capable banker; he also hobnobbed with Yugoslav royalty, owned airplanes, and ran several factories. Photo: UKOM archive
The Castle Today
Today, Strmol Castle is open to the public and offers a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that include the castle’s history, viewing art collections, and strolling through the castle park.
The castle is a popular venue for weddings, business meetings, and cultural events. Guests can also enjoy coffee or lunch in the castle café while soaking in the peaceful surroundings and historical ambiance.
The interior of Strmol Castle is richly furnished with original furniture, artworks, and other valuable objects. Each room tells its own story, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the castle’s past inhabitants. Among the curiosities is a crocodile that was once a pet of Ksenija Hribar. The crocodile bit its owner during a bath and is now preserved in a display near the castle entrance.
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The castle holds a rich collection of historical furniture. Photo: Strmol Castle archive
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The Strmol Castle was declared as a cultural monument of national importance. Photo: Strmol Castle archive
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Guests can rent and stay in one of authentic castle rooms and suites. Photo: Strmol Castle archive
Where Walls Have Stories
Strmol Castle is not just an architectural gem; it is also a witness to a rich history, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Visiting the castle offers a chance to immerse oneself in the past, learn about the people who shaped it, and appreciate the beauty and importance of safeguarding historical monuments.
