The Predjama castle is super unique in that it’s built on a cliff face at the entrance of a deep cave system. Not only did this give them a lot of usable space, but because there was a long passageway right through the mountain, it also gave them a secret entrance in the neighbouring valley many kilometers away.
Although it’s a really cool castle, it wouldn’t be a super comfortable home in the winter months. I’m sure the occupants built fires to keep warm while living inside, but during our January visit it was uncomfortably cold and inhospitable.
The beginning of the deep cave system at Predjama Castle
It’s been said that when the castle was under siege for long periods of time, the lord of the castle would send people through the secret passage to get fresh fruit and vegetables for the occupants of the castle. Due to the favourable climate in the valley where the secret entrance was, there was often fresh fruit growing there before it was ready in the valley at the front of the castle. The lord would taunt the besiegers by throwing fresh cherry pits down on the attacking forces, mystifying them, because there were no fresh cherries to be had in the valley.
Location: Predjama, Slovenia