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Photo: Innotime - Kovács Bence -
Photo: Innotime - Kovács Bence -
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Photo: Innotime - Kovács Bence
Somoskő Castle
Perched atop a volcanic cone above the village of Somoskő, now part of Salgótarján in northern Hungary, Somoskő Castle is more than just the ruin of a medieval stronghold. It is a unique intersection of Hungarian history, geology, and tourism. With its stunning setting and rich heritage, the castle and its surroundings are a highlight of the border region between Hungary and Slovakia.
Medieval Origins and Strategic Importance
The castle was built at the end of the 13th century by a branch of the Kacsics noble family. Its elevated position offered natural defence and excellent visibility over the surrounding area, making it a valuable military outpost. Over the centuries, it passed through the hands of several noble families including the Szécsényi, Losonczy, Forgách, and Rákóczi families, each of whom strengthened and expanded it.
In the 16th century, as the Ottoman threat grew, Somoskő became part of the Hungarian border fortress system. It was captured by the Turks in 1576 but reclaimed in 1593 by Miklós Pálffy, and remained an important stronghold until the end of Ottoman rule in Hungary.
Mining, Decline, and Ruin
The 18th century brought the end of the castle’s military role, and it began to fall into disrepair. In the late 19th century, basalt mining started in the area – targeting the unique columnar formations around the volcanic hill – and the excavation caused structural damage to the already ruined castle.
After the 1st World War
After the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, the castle was ceded to Czechoslovakia, while the village of Somoskő remained part of Hungary. Although physically connected, the castle and the village found themselves in separate countries. For decades, visiting the castle from the Hungarian side required crossing a national border.
This changed with Slovakia’s accession to the Schengen Zone in 2007. Today, visitors can freely walk across the border to explore the castle ruins without restrictions or border checks.
Natural Heritage – The Basalt Columns
The volcanic hill on which the castle stands is home to spectacular basalt columns, formed by the cooling and cracking of lava. These columnar basalt formations are among the finest in Central Europe. At sunset, the rocks glow golden, offering a truly magical sight.
The area is part of the Novohrad–Nógrád Geopark, a UNESCO-supported cross-border initiative that protects and promotes the region’s exceptional geological and cultural heritage.
Hiking and Visitor Information
The castle is accessible on foot via a scenic trail starting from the village of Somoskő. Along the way, visitors can explore the protected natural environment and read educational panels about the geology and history of the site.
The castle is open year-round and free of charge. From the lookout tower at the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Cserhát hills, the Medves Plateau, and even the Mátra mountains in the distance.
Target group
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Class trips
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Families with younger children
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Families with older children
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Multigenerational programs
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Friends
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Seniors
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Couples
Other services
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Type of sight
- castle
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Recommended
- for newly-weds
- for visitors looking for free activities
- for adventurers
- for children
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for newly-weds
for visitors looking for free activities
for adventurers
for children
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for visitors looking for hidden gems
budget friendly
for couples
for groups
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How much time does it require?
- 1-2 hours
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Is it guided?
- can be discovered individually
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Is it free?
- mixed
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Do you have to book in advance?
- can be visited without booking
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Type of castle
- castle ruin
Sights, programs
Sustainability steps based on the Good Travel Seal criteria
Food and products
Caring for people
Decent employment
Pollution reduction
Caring for the climate
Waste reduction
Caring for water
Caring for nature
Caring for culture
Management and information