Grad Turjak is one of the most recognizable castles in Slovenia. It was first mentioned in written sources in 1220, though research indicates its origins date back to the 11th century. Its location was strategically important, standing along a medieval trade route that connected the Ljubljana Basin with the Lož Valley and the Kolpa River valley. The ruins of the lower castle are still visible beneath today’s castle, bearing witness to the former extent of the castle complex. The history of Turjak is closely tied to the Auerspergs, or Turjaški, whose name marked the castle from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
The Turjaški were among the most influential noble families in Carniola, and their significance extended beyond the borders of present-day Slovenia. Members of the family held important military, political, and diplomatic positions and played a role in shaping cultural and social life. They particularly distinguished themselves in battles against the Ottoman Empire. Among the most famous are Herbert Turjaški, provincial governor of Carniola, who fell at Budačko in 1575, and Andrej Turjaški, who made a significant contribution to the victory at the Battle of Sisak in 1593. Their stories reveal the role of the Turjaški in defending the broader Central European region.
A major turning point in the castle’s architectural development came with the powerful earthquake of 1511. Afterward, Trojan Turjaški rebuilt the castle and transformed it into a mighty Renaissance fortress adapted for defense against Turkish attacks. Its distinctive appearance is marked by a large round bastion, massive walls, and defensive corridors. The castle thus combined two roles: it was both a secure noble residence and a fortress. In the following centuries, its interior was gradually adapted for more comfortable living and the family’s representational needs. After the Auerspergs were elevated to the rank of count in 1630, further renovations followed, including the arrangement of living quarters and the construction of a larger castle chapel.
Turjak also holds an important place in the history of the Slovenian Reformation. The Turjaški supported the Protestant movement and provided refuge to Primož Trubar and Jurij Dalmatin, central figures in the development of the Slovenian literary language. The castle’s connection to the Reformation therefore represents an important part of its cultural heritage. France Prešeren inscribed it into Slovenian literary memory with his ballad Turjaška Rozamunda, which linked the castle setting with a tale of love, pride, and fateful choice.
One of the most difficult chapters in the castle’s history was 1943. During World War II, the castle was heavily damaged in fighting, and much of its furnishings were destroyed. The Auerspergs left it, bringing to an end centuries of their residence at Turjak. After the war, the castle was nationalized and passed into state ownership. Decades of gradual restoration and efforts to preserve its architectural heritage followed. A significant portion of the restoration work was carried out between 2002 and 2006.
An extensive renovation, completed in 2026, encompassed the castle rooms, courtyard, park, and auxiliary buildings, and improved the building’s energy efficiency. The castle reopened its doors to visitors on August 27, 2026. Its story is now presented through a permanent exhibition that uses the history of the Turjaški to illustrate broader Slovenian history, from medieval beginnings to the family’s departure in 1943. The renovated spaces enable the integration of heritage with cultural, educational, and tourism content.
In October 2026, Grad Turjak was taken over by JGZ Brdo. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in its history, dedicated to regular accessibility, guided tours, hospitality services, weddings, and other events. The castle is once again becoming a place of gathering and experiences, where the preservation of cultural heritage connects with the life of the local community and visitors.
