Undoubtedly one of Croatia's most impressive 17th-century structures, Castle Nova Kraljevica is a sight to behold. Situated on a hill above a peninsula, the castle looks over the Bay of Bakar like a protector, a stunning rectangular complex packed with whispers, memories, and stories.
Most agree that Venetian builders constructed the castle, but questions over its origins fade into the background when faced with the charm of the structure and details found within the four towers.
The decadent interior is as good a place to start as any. Its meticulous design opens a window into the life of Petar Zrinski and (most notably) his wife, Katarina Frankopan. The decoration is spectacular, with gilded wallpaper and marble floors and doors. Today, the Visitor and Interpretation Centres allow visitors to engage with the castle’s long and storied history; the former sets the scene to beautiful effect, while the latter dives deep into the life and times of the Zrinski and Frankopan families, bringing the opulence of the 17th century hurtling into the 21st. If that isn’t enough, there is also a small museum dedicated to fishing and shipbuilding, also vital components of life in Kraljevica throughout the centuries.
Visitor and Interpretation Centres are open by appointment; in low season, March 30 - June 15 and September 15 - October 1 are open Sat, Sun and holidays 10:00 - 18:00, other days by appointment; and in high season, June 15 - September 15 are open 10:00 - 18:00, Closed Sun.
Admission is free.
To visit the Castle and Centres by appointment, it is necessary to contacting Kraljevica Tourist Board via email: info@visitkraljevica.hr.
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