Esslingen Castle has been the city’s most recognizable landmark for almost 700 years. It was built originally in the 13th century and enhanced in 1519-1531. Preserved elements in the Old Town of the corresponding city wall include the Schelztor, the Pliensauturm and the Wolfstor. The castle is open to the public, and the famous Dicke Turm has also recently reopened for visits by guided tours. The ascent of more than 300 steps rewards visitors with a unique view over the city.
Trenčín Castle is relatively large renovated castle, towering on a steep limestone cliff directly above the city of Trenčín. It is a dominant feature not only of Trenčín, but also of the entire Považie region. The castle is a national monument.
History of the castle cliff dates back to the Roman Empire, what is proved by the inscription on the castle cliff proclaiming the victory of Roman legion against Germans in the year 179.
Today’s castle was probably built on the hill-fort. The first proven building on the hill was the Great Moravian rotunda from the 9th century and later there was a stone residential tower, which served to protect the Kingdom of Hungary and the western border. In the late 13th century the castle became a property of Palatine Matúš Csák, who became Mr. of Váh and Tatras.
Matúš Csák of Trenčín built a tower, still known as Matthew’s, which is a dominant determinant of the whole building.