Orava Castle

Perched high on a rocky cliff above the Orava River, Orava Castle is one of Slovakia’s most striking medieval fortresses. Built in the 13th century, the castle has a long and turbulent history, surviving fires, sieges, and ghostly legends.

Orava Castle gained worldwide fame as the filming location for Nosferatu (1922), one of the most influential horror films of all time. The castle’s dark halls, winding staircases, and imposing stone walls served as the perfect stand-in for Count Orlok’s haunted lair, making it one of the most recognizable Gothic horror settings in cinema history. On the top floor you will even find a Nosferatu exhibition, among other movies that were shot in the castle.

Beyond its cinematic legacy, the castle is rumored to be haunted, with stories of mysterious figures, unexplained sounds, and chilling apparitions lingering within its ancient corridors. Visitors can explore its eerie dungeons, hidden chambers, and breathtaking views from its towers, making it a must-visit for horror fans and history lovers alike.