Ruins in Slovenia: The Complete List

Slovenia’s hills and river valleys are dotted with the remains of castles, fortresses and manor houses that trace Roman, medieval and later histories. Visiting ruins offers a compact way to connect with those layers of the past while enjoying varied landscapes and short walks.

There are 59 Ruins in Slovenia, ranging from Ajdovščina Roman Fortress to Žovnek Castle. Each entry lists Location,Type,Condition & access so you can quickly see distance, difficulty and whether a site is visitable; you’ll find below.

Which ruins are easiest to visit without a car?

Look for entries where Condition & access note roadside parking or proximity to towns — those are often reachable by public transport plus a short walk. Use the Location,Type,Condition & access columns to filter choices, check local timetables and parking, and respect signs or private-property restrictions.

How should I plan a day to see several ruins?

Group sites by Location to minimize driving, prioritize ones with favourable Condition & access, and allow extra time for hikes or poor paths. Bring sturdy shoes, water, an offline map and basic contact info; for remote or restricted ruins, check access rules beforehand or consider a guided option.

Ruins in Slovenia

Images and Descriptions

Celje Old Castle

Slovenia’s largest castle ruin, perched above Celje. Once the seat of the powerful Counts of Celje, its history spans from the 12th century. Visitors can explore the vast walls, towers, and courtyards, enjoying spectacular views and medieval events.

Žiče Charterhouse

The serene ruins of a 12th-century Carthusian monastery nestled in a remote valley. Visitors can wander through the roofless Gothic church, cloisters, and defensive walls, imagining the silent life of the monks who once lived here in solitude.

Kamen Castle

A dramatic castle ruin built into a rocky cliff at the entrance of the Draga Valley. Originally a 12th-century structure, it was abandoned in the 18th century. It’s a popular spot for a short hike and photography, evoking a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Kostel Castle

One of Slovenia’s most scenic castles, towering 200 meters above the Kolpa River. This 13th-century fortress was a key defense against Ottoman raids. Its thick walls and strategic location make it a commanding and picturesque ruin to visit.

Žovnek Castle

The ancestral home of the Counts of Celje, these mighty ruins stand on a hill overlooking Lake Žovnek. It is one of Slovenia’s oldest castles, with origins in the 12th century. A great destination for a walk with a rewarding historical view.

Roman Necropolis

An open-air museum showcasing ornate Roman tombs discovered by accident. These elaborate marble mausoleums belonged to wealthy families from the nearby Roman city of Celeia and feature stunning reliefs depicting mythological scenes, offering a direct glimpse into Roman life.

Soteska Castle

Famous for its ‘Hudičev turn’ (Devil’s Tower), this 13th-century castle ruin is hidden in a forest. The site includes the remains of the palace and a unique, isolated tower, all creating a mysterious and romantic atmosphere for explorers.

Hmeljnik Castle

One of the largest castle ruins in the Dolenjska region, Hmeljnik’s origins date back to the 11th century. The remaining walls, towers, and courtyards offer a glimpse into its formidable past. The site is a favorite for local hikers and history buffs.

Tolmin Castle

The ruins of this medieval castle, known as Grad na Kozlovem robu, sit on a wooded hill above Tolmin. The short, steep hike to the top is rewarded with fantastic views of the Soča Valley and the surrounding Julian Alps.

Ajdovščina Roman Fortress

The Roman fortress of Castra Ad Fluvium Frigidum has walls and 14 towers that are still a prominent part of Ajdovščina’s old town center. It’s a fantastic example of late Roman military architecture, easily explored on a city walk.

Fort Hermann

An Austro-Hungarian fortress located on a ridge above Fort Kluže. Destroyed during World War I, its concrete and stone ruins offer a poignant reminder of the Battles of the Isonzo. The hike provides stunning, somber views of the surrounding mountains.

Pleterje Open-Air Museum

Adjacent to the still-active Pleterje Charterhouse, this museum features the beautiful ruins of the original 15th-century Gothic church. The site provides insight into monastic life and the region’s rural heritage, blending history with serene nature.

Vurberk Castle

Overlooking the Drava river valley, these 12th-century castle ruins are a landmark near Ptuj. Though heavily damaged in WWII, the remaining walls and towers offer panoramic views and host a popular summer festival, bringing the historic site to life.

Rihemberk Castle

Dominating the Vipava Valley, this mighty 13th-century castle is known for its towering keep. While undergoing gradual restoration, it retains a powerful ruinous character. Guided tours reveal its history, from medieval lords to World War II destruction.

Gutenberg Castle

Locally known as ‘Stari grad,’ these are the remains of a 12th-century castle perched on a rocky hill above Tržič. The most prominent feature is the Romanesque keep. It’s a short, scenic hike for views and a touch of local history.

Planina Castle

Strategically located above the Planina polje, these 12th-century castle ruins feature a striking, partially preserved keep known as ‘Ravbarjev turn’. The site played a key role in controlling trade routes and is a fantastic stop for history lovers.

Emona Roman Wall

The southern wall of the Roman city of Emona can be traced through modern Ljubljana. The most impressive section is a restored stretch with a pyramid by architect Jože Plečnik, offering a tangible link to the city’s 2,000-year-old origins.

Neviodunum Archaeological Park

Explore the ruins of the Roman river port of Neviodunum. The park showcases the excavated foundations of villas, a forum, and temples. It’s an important site for understanding Roman urban life in Slovenia, located conveniently near the highway.

St. Martin’s Church

A hauntingly beautiful ruin of a 16th-century church, abandoned in the 18th century due to reforms. Located deep in the Pohorje forests, its stone walls and bell tower are slowly being reclaimed by nature, creating a highly atmospheric site.

Claustra Alpium Iuliarum

This section of the late Roman defensive system is one of the best-preserved in Slovenia. Visitors can walk along the ancient wall through the forest, imagining Roman soldiers guarding the empire’s frontier against barbarian invasions in the 4th century.

Šumberk Castle

The ruins of this 12th-century castle, known as ‘Stari grad,’ are a popular hiking destination. The remaining Romanesque tower and defensive walls sit atop a hill, offering pleasant views over the Temenica Valley and the rolling Dolenjska hills.

Betnava Mansion

An imposing Baroque mansion just outside Maribor, now in a state of advanced decay. Though not publicly accessible inside, its crumbling facade and vast, overgrown park tell a story of grandeur lost to time, attracting photographers and urban explorers.

Kozjak Castle

Perched on a cliff above the Temenica River, these are the romantic ruins of a medieval castle. First mentioned in the 13th century, it was home to the Knights of Kozjak. The location is spectacular and perfect for a short, adventurous hike.

Ojstrica Castle

These are the modest remains of a small 13th-century castle. While not as grand as others, its accessible location and the visible outline of its walls make it a pleasant stop for those exploring the countryside south of Ljubljana.

Grm Castle

Not to be confused with the restored castle in Novo Mesto, this is the solitary ruin of a 14th-century tower house. Standing alone in a field, the picturesque stone structure is a remnant of a lowland water castle, offering a unique sight.

Pusti Grad

Known as ‘Forhtenek,’ these are the ruins of a 13th-century castle that once guarded the town of Šoštanj. The name ‘Pusti Grad’ (Empty Castle) aptly describes its abandoned state. The walk up offers nice views over the Šalek Valley.

Ortnek Castle

A large, 12th-century castle complex, now in a state of ruin. Its extensive walls and buildings are being slowly reclaimed by the forest, giving it a mysterious feel. It was once one of the most important castles in the Kočevje region.

Freudenberg Castle

The small remains of a 12th-century castle are located just above the old town of Radovljica. Today, only a section of the defensive wall and the base of a tower are visible in a small park, offering a quiet nod to the town’s medieval past.

Mehovo Castle

These are the modest ruins of a 13th-century castle belonging to the Counts of Gorizia. Located on a small hill surrounded by vineyards, the remaining stone fragments offer a sense of the region’s feudal history and a peaceful spot for reflection.

Idrija Smelting Plant

The ‘Topilnica Hg’ is the ruin of a massive mercury ore smelting plant from the 19th and 20th centuries. Its industrial architecture and towering chimney are a testament to Idrija’s 500-year history as a world-leading mercury mining town.

Svibno Castle

The ruins of Svibno Castle, dating to the 12th century, stand on a hill above the Sava River. The most notable feature is the partially preserved Romanesque keep. It’s a quiet, atmospheric site offering views of the surrounding landscape.

Mirna Castle

Known as ‘Speča lepotica’ (Sleeping Beauty), this 11th-century castle was a ruin for decades before recent restoration efforts began. It now blends ruined sections with restored areas used for events, showcasing a castle’s life cycle from glory to decay and rebirth.

Kravjek Castle

The small, overgrown ruins of a 12th-century castle hidden in the woods. Associated with the local robber-knight, Gusar, the site is a destination for hikers and those interested in local legends and the lesser-known medieval history of the region.

Škofje Castle

These are the humble ruins of a 13th-century lowland castle that belonged to the Bishopric of Freising. Today, only the foundation and lower parts of a round tower remain, serving as a subtle historical marker in the Bela Krajina landscape.

Kolovrat Open-Air Museum

An extensive system of World War I fortifications along a mountain ridge. Visitors can walk through restored trenches, gun emplacements, and observation posts used by the Italian army, with interpretive panels and stunning views of the Soča Valley.

Mokronog Castle

The ruins of this 13th-century castle are situated on a hill directly above the town of Mokronog. The remaining sections of the wall and a Gothic tower are a silent testament to the town’s medieval importance and a focal point for local history.

Hudičev Gradič

‘Devil’s Little Castle’ is the site of a fortified prehistoric settlement from the Iron Age. While only earthen ramparts and foundational outlines are visible today, it is a significant archaeological site offering insights into the area’s ancient inhabitants.

Lož Castle

These are the remains of a 13th-century castle that once protected the medieval town of Lož. The most prominent feature is a large, square corner tower. The ruins are easily accessible and integrated into the fabric of the historic town.

Raka Castle

One of Slovenia’s oldest castles, dating to the 12th century. It stands fully intact but abandoned and in a state of severe decay. Its ghostly presence makes it a fascinating, if somber, sight, representing a ruin in the making.

Boštanj Castle

Locally known as ‘Gradič,’ these are the modest remains of a medieval castle overlooking the Sava River. First mentioned in the 12th century, only fragments of the walls survive, offering a quiet destination for a walk with a view.

Poetovio Mithraeums

Ptuj, ancient Poetovio, is home to several ruined Mithraic temples. The most famous, Mithraeum III, is preserved in a protective building. These sites offer a fascinating look into the mystical Roman cult of Mithras, which was popular among soldiers.

St. Pancras’s Church

The ruins of a 15th-century Gothic church stand on a prominent hill. The well-preserved chancel with its star-ribbed vault and the tall bell tower are particularly impressive, making it a picturesque and historically significant landmark.

Kozlov Rob Castle

The ruins of this medieval castle stand guard on a wooded hill above Tolmin. A short, steep hike leads to the remaining walls and foundations, offering fantastic views of the confluence of the Soča and Tolminka rivers.

Hošperk Mansion

A once-stately 18th-century mansion, now an abandoned and decaying shell. Its crumbling facade and overgrown surroundings give it a haunting atmosphere. A powerful example of more recent architectural heritage falling into ruin.

Soča Castle

Locally known as ‘Grad na skali’ (Castle on the Rock), these are the scant ruins of a medieval watchtower or small castle overlooking the Soča river near Solkan. It’s a spot for adventurous explorers looking for history off the beaten path.

Višnja Gora Old Castle

The ruins of the ancestral castle of the Lords of Višnja Gora, one of medieval Slovenia’s most important noble families. Located on ‘Stari grad’ hill, the site is now an archaeological park with a popular themed educational trail.

Rupnik Line Bunkers

A system of fortifications built by Yugoslavia before WWII. Many of these concrete bunkers are now abandoned ruins scattered across the landscape. Exploring them offers a glimpse into 20th-century military history and a unique hiking experience.

St. George’s Church

The isolated ruins of a Romanesque church stand on a scenic hill. The most prominent feature is the belfry, which is a local landmark. It’s a peaceful and photogenic spot, perfect for a short walk with panoramic views.

Wildhaus Mansion

The forgotten ruins of a 17th-century manor house hidden within the Kočevski Rog forests. Once used as a hunting lodge, it was burned down during WWII. Its isolated and overgrown state makes it a truly atmospheric discovery for hikers.

Gallenhofen Castle

These are the minimal remains of a medieval castle, with only the base of a round tower clearly visible. Located in a field, it’s a subtle reminder of the many small fortifications that once dotted the Slovenian landscape.

Hrastovlje Defence Wall

While the church itself is famous and intact, the impressive 16th-century defensive wall surrounding it is partially ruined. Built to protect villagers from Ottoman raids, its robust towers and walls create a fortress-like appearance unique in the region.

Old Castle above Podgrad

The extensive ruins of a 13th-century castle on a strategic hill. It was the seat of a powerful lordship for centuries before being abandoned. The remaining high walls and towers make it one of the more impressive, lesser-known ruins in the Karst region.

Klevevž Castle

The scant ruins of a medieval castle are less of an attraction than the natural thermal spring (Klevevška toplica) that emerges nearby. It’s a unique spot where history and nature meet, allowing you to see ruins and take a dip in warm water.

Podčetrtek Castle

These 12th-century castle ruins tower over the town of Podčetrtek and the popular thermal spa. Long neglected, the site is now being secured and made accessible, promising to become a major attraction that combines history with stunning views.

Lebek Castle

These are the faint remains of a medieval castle, now little more than stone mounds and low walls hidden in the forest. It’s a destination for dedicated castle hunters and hikers exploring the geometric center of Slovenia (GEOSS) area.

Stari Grad nad Lipo

The ‘Old Castle above Lipa’ consists of the modest remains of a medieval fortification on a conical hill. While not extensive, the site offers a pleasant walk and a glimpse into the local network of defensive structures from the Middle Ages.

Škrljevo Castle

The ruins of this 12th-century castle stand on a low hill in the scenic Mirna Valley. A notable round tower and sections of the wall are still visible. It’s an easily accessible site that adds historical texture to a trip through the region.

Šalek Castle

The well-preserved, thick-walled tower of Šalek Castle is a landmark in the Šalek Valley. The rest of the 12th-century castle is in ruins, but the solitary tower stands as a powerful symbol of the area’s medieval past.

Dobrenja Charterhouse

These are the archaeological remains of the ‘Kartuzija Bistra’ monastery, founded in the 13th century. Unlike the grand ruins of Žiče, here you will find the excavated foundations and low walls, inviting you to piece together its history.

Ruins in Other Countries