RAICHENBURG CASTLE
Brestanica
Extraordinary history, a place of culture and art. Discover Rajhenburg.
Perched on a scenic rocky promontory where the Brestanica stream meets the Sava River, Rajhenburg Castle is one of Slovenia’s most important medieval monuments. It was built between 1131 and 1147 by Archbishop of Salzburg, Konrad I. The castle and its estate were managed by ministeriales, officials named after Rajhenburg itself.
Over the centuries, after the original family — which had risen to prominence with a knightly title — died out, a succession of owners added new features to the castle, gradually shaping it into the appearance we admire today.
In 1881, Rajhenburg Castle was purchased by Trappist monks and transformed into a monastery, which remained active until April 1941. During the German occupation, the castle and its outbuildings were used as a camp for the expulsion of Slovenes.
In 1947, the castle was nationalized, and it housed several penal institutions until 1966. With the first exhibition on exiles in 1968, the castle began to serve primarily as a museum and event venue.
PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS
As you explore the castle, you can visit the permanent exhibitions:
- Architectural development and renovations of Rajhenburg Castle
- Slovenian exiles, 1941–1945
- The Trappists in Rajhenburg
- Primož Kozmus: Medals
- Brestani miniatures
- Castle furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries (from the collection of the National Museum of Slovenia)
- Penal institutions at Rajhenburg Castle, 1948–1966
The castle boasts two preserved chapels: a 12th-century Romanesque chapel and a 16th-century Gothic chapel, a rare feature in Central Europe. The Renaissance living quarters include a grand hall and a richly decorated room adorned with frescoes. The castle hosts a variety of cultural events — concerts, theater performances, lectures — along with temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and creative workshops specially designed for young visitors.
The castle grounds feature a carefully restored bridge and herb garden. The museum shop offers a range of local products, including Brestanica chocolate, whose rich aroma fills the castle each year during the Rajhenburg Chocolate and Liqueur Day.
Contact
Address:
Exiles' Road 3 8280 Brestanica
Telephone:
07 620 42 16 / 051 390 648
Email:
info@gradrajhenburg.si