The Fala Castle
Castle tour in Maribor, Podravska
If you are looking for a memorable castle tour in Maribor, Podravska, Fala Castle offers a unique journey into history, culture and breathtaking natural surroundings in the heart of the Drava Valley.
Located on a fluvial terrace above the Drava River, Fala Castle stands at a remarkable geological and historical crossroads. To the West, it is embraced by the dramatic Fala cliff, while ancient precipices on both sides of the river form a striking natural rock gate leading into the middle Drava Valley. This narrow canyon once served as a cultural and provincial border between Carinthia and the lands beyond the forests, making Fala Castle a strategic and influential site for centuries.
Today, visitors who choose a castle tour in Maribor, Podravska can explore a carefully restored estate that reflects the elegance of the 17th century. Thanks to the dedication of its new owner, the castle was saved from ruin and furnished in a historical style that revives the atmosphere of its golden era. During that time, Fala Castle even served as a Department of Philosophy, Theology and Law of the University of Vienna, highlighting its intellectual and cultural importance.
The first written record of Fala Castle dates back to 1311, when it was owned by the Benedictine monastery of St. Paul’s Abbey from Carinthia. Throughout its history, the castle played a key defensive and administrative role. In the 16th century, during repeated Ottoman incursions, the structure and the Drava blockade – known as the “Turkish Wall” – were fortified to protect the surrounding region.
By the 17th century, the castle had evolved into a monastic complex. Historical records from 1638 describe an impressive estate that included:
three beautiful rooms
three large chambers
a grand hall
two cellars
an arched kitchen and pantries
a chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas
service quarters and administrative spaces
These elements are still reflected in the layout of the castle today, allowing guests on a castle tour in Maribor, Podravska to walk through authentic spaces that once housed monks, professors, clergy and estate staff.
Experience a Castle Fairy-Tale in Maribor
Fala Castle invites you to step into a fairy-tale setting where history and imagination meet. A castle tour in Maribor, Podravska is more than just a guided walk – it is an immersive experience into medieval and Baroque life. Visitors can discover stories of nobility and bourgeois life, learn about the cultural separation line that once shaped the region, and feel the atmosphere of a time when the castle controlled the main route toward Carinthia.
The castle complex today includes:
18 large, stylistically furnished rooms
13 former service chambers
a castle chapel
a spacious courtyard
an event space with up to 400 seats
a tavern and a great hall
Every corner of the estate reflects its rich past and architectural character, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts, photographers and travelers seeking something truly distinctive.
Beyond its historical significance, Fala Castle is a vibrant cultural venue. It regularly hosts weddings, theatre performances, international beauty pageants, educational and creative workshops, literary events, photography workshops, old-timer conventions and social gatherings.
Couples often choose Fala Castle as the setting to promise eternal love, surrounded by lush forests, dramatic cliffs and blooming meadows. A castle tour in Maribor, Podravska can easily become part of a romantic getaway or a larger celebration.
Fala Castle offers a rare opportunity to connect with both nature and heritage. Its location in the Podravska region, close to Maribor, makes it an accessible yet tranquil destination. The surrounding landscape enhances every visit, providing panoramic views and a sense of timelessness.
If you are searching for a distinctive and historically rich castle tour in Maribor, Podravska, Fala Castle welcomes you to explore its halls, discover its stories and become part of its living fairy-tale.
