The Snežnik Castle is a unique museum depicting residential culture of the 19th century and is one of the few castles in Slovenia that can boast of original furnishings. The castle is managed by the National Museum of Slovenia
The origins of the Snežnik Castle reach back to the times of the Aquileian patriarchs who were its first known owners between the 10th and 11th centuries. It was built on a rock ledge alongside the foothills of the Snežnik forests with the intention of protecting important commerce paths which once connected Kranj with Istria and Kvarner.
The owners changed throughout the centuries as did also the castle’s interior and exterior. It acquired its Renaissance appearance in the 16th century. It obtained its current appearance through additions carried out by the last owners, the princely Saxon family in the second half of the 19th century.
The princely family Schönburg - Waldenburg purchased the castle and grounds at an auction, completely restoring it during the period 1860-1864. The interior was refurbished and luxuriously furnished with all the comforts as dictated by the times necessary for a provincial hunting manor. At the same time, the agricultural buildings of the castle farm were built and the surroundings landscaped in the English park fashion.
Following an extensive three-year restoration, the castle once again shines in all its glory, bearing witness to the rich history and lives of the former inhabitants. In the castle’s interior, one can view the originally furnished daily salons, bedrooms of family members, guest rooms, two dining rooms, a music room, an evening salon, the castle library, servant quarters, castle cellar and Egyptian room which ranks as an ambient novelty. In addition to the furniture, works of art, books, ceramic stoves, lamps, carpets, numerous useful and decorative objects and a beautiful collection of hunting trophies from the period of the last owners are also located in the castle. Cultural events and civil wedding services are also held at the castle in addition to activities of the museum.
