Zborov (hrad)

Zborov Castle, also known as Makovica or Makovický hrad, is the ruin of a medieval castle in the village of Zborov in the Bardejov district. The earliest mentions of it date from the early 14th century, and its turbulent history is linked to several prominent Hungarian noble families.

Over the centuries the castle changed hands many times. Between 1364 and 1470 it belonged to the Cudar family, and after their line died out, King Matthias granted the estate to the Rozgonyi family, who resided there until 1512. They were followed by the Tárczay family (until 1548) and then the Serédy family (1548–1601). In 1601 the castle was bought by the Rákóczi family, one of the most powerful dynasties in Hungary at the time.

War events sealed the castle's fate. During the estates' uprisings it was attacked by imperial troops and demolished in 1684. It suffered further damage during the First World War, when fighting between Russian and Austrian forces took place in its vicinity. Of the once-powerful seat, only ruins remain today, but they still carry the breath of history.

Zborov Castle is a rewarding destination for hikers and history lovers who want to discover the lesser-known, yet all the more authentic, monuments of the Šariš region. It lies close to Bardejov – a UNESCO-listed town – so the trip to the castle can be perfectly combined with a visit to its historic core and spa. Accommodation around Bardejov offers a comfortable base for exploring this corner of north-eastern Slovakia.