About the castle

Rihemberk Castle, the largest preserved medieval castle in the Primorska region, has stood as a majestic sentinel over the Vipava Valley and the Karst Plateau for centuries. It was declared a monument of local significance in 1952, and in 1999 it received the status of a cultural monument of national importance.

In addition to its historical value, the castle also holds significant ecological importance, serving as a key habitat for endangered animal species, including various bat species and the great crested newt. For this reason, it is part of two protected Natura 2000 areas: the Branica Valley and the Karst.

Visiting the Castle

Rihemberk Castle is partially renovated, maintained, and open to visitors. During the warmer months, it operates according to regular opening hours. Groups can also visit the castle outside of regular hours by prior reservation.

Most areas accessible to visitors are outdoors. Guests can explore the castle walls, climb the highest castle tower in Slovenia, and visit the visitor and interpretation centre, where both the natural and historical heritage of the site is presented.

Visitor and Interpretation Centre Natura 2000 Infopoint Rihemberk Castle

On the first floor of the entrance building is the Natura 2000 Infopoint, where the stories of the castle and its natural heritage are presented in a modern and engaging way.

In the first room, which tells the story of past life in the castle, visitors are greeted by the last lord of Rihemberk, Karel Levetzow Lantieri. The second room, located in the round tower, is dedicated to presenting the surrounding natural environment, with a special focus on riverine habitats of the Branica and Vipava valleys, home to many rare and endangered species.

A variety of digital and tactile exhibits help visitors understand the importance of nature conservation within the Natura 2000 network, of which Rihemberk Castle is a part. Special attention is given to Rihemberk’s bats, some of the most precious residents of this area.

Silent Symphony

Experience the invisible world of sound in a unique acoustic journey!

The project Inaudible – Audible, Among the Bats invites you to an extraordinary exploration of the soundscape created by the creatures of the night. It is a one-of-a-kind fusion of sound ecology and bioacoustic music, where the inaudible becomes an immersive artistic experience.

Bat echolocation sounds, normally emitted at ultrasonic frequencies, have been carefully processed and converted into sounds audible to the human ear. These are accompanied by the mysterious ambience of the night – rustling leaves, distant forest echoes, and the inner rhythm of the castle’s architecture. The result is a 3D spatial audio experience, delivered through headphones in an ambisonic format.

The entire setup is environmentally respectful – sound is projected only through headphones, providing an intimate experience without polluting the natural acoustics of Rihemberk Castle.

Silent Sounds – Among Bats was created by SAETA – Institute for Cultural and Promotional Activities within the GO! 2025 European Capital of Culture programme.

Natura 2000 – Branica Valley

Natural heritage and protected areas
As a mighty guardian between the Vipava Valley and the Karst Plateau, Rihemberk Castle is surrounded by rich and well-preserved nature. The area is part of two Natura 2000 protected zones: the Branica Valley and the Karst, which safeguard diverse habitats home to many rare and endangered species, including beetles, fish, amphibians, dragonflies, and butterflies.

Bats – the castle’s hidden residents
Slovenia is home to 32 species of bats, and no fewer than 12 of them regularly or occasionally roost at Rihemberk Castle. The most common is the Geoffroy’s bat (Myotis emarginatus). Rihemberk hosts the largest maternity roost of this species in western Slovenia.

The number of pregnant females arriving between April and June varies from year to year, but the castle remains a critical refuge for this species. All bat species in Slovenia are strictly protected, as they are threatened by excessive pesticide use (which reduces their food supply) and the destruction of roosting sites in buildings, which is prohibited by law.

At Rihemberk Castle, we take care to protect the bats by not illuminating their flight openings and avoiding any disturbances during their roosting season. The largest bat roosting areas within the castle are off-limits to visitors, providing the animals with a peaceful and safe environment.

The great crested newt and other endangered species
In addition to bats, the castle also plays an important role in the conservation of the great crested newt, a shy, tailed amphibian often seen in the abandoned water troughs near the former castle stables. Lucky visitors may also spot the Italian agile frog, which has its easternmost habitat here.

What is Natura 2000?
Natura 2000 is a European network of protected areas designed to preserve the most endangered species and habitats. With 37 % of its territory under Natura 2000 protection, Slovenia is one of the most biodiverse countries in Europe – and 70 % of these areas are covered by forests.

Natura 2000 is the most successful global model for nature conservation, based on the principle of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. To protect biodiversity, human activity in these areas must be carefully adapted to avoid harming fragile ecosystems.

Learn more about Slovenia’s Natura 2000 sites at: www.natura2000.si

Ownership and Management of the Castle

Rihemberk Castle is owned by the Municipality of Nova Gorica, and since July 2024, it has been managed by the Public Institute for Tourism Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley.

In recent years, the Municipality has been actively leading extensive restoration works aimed at preserving the castle and its unique heritage for future generations.

The daily caretaking, programming, and revitalisation of the castle are entrusted to Svitar – Institute for Spatial Design, History, and Arts, which brings heritage to life through creative interpretation, events, and experiences.

Friend of Rihemberk

A Friend of Rihemberk is a dedicated volunteer who contributes their time, knowledge, and effort to help maintain, promote, and bring new life to Rihemberk Castle. Their support is invaluable in preserving and revitalising this remarkable cultural heritage site.

As a token of sincere appreciation and respect, each Friend of Rihemberk receives a free annual pass as a symbol of gratitude for their meaningful contribution.

The Municipality of Nova Gorica, the Public Institute for Tourism Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley, and the Svitar Institute would like to express heartfelt thanks to all Friends of Rihemberk for their dedication, energy, and priceless support!

Rihemberk Castle is the largest preserved medieval castle in the Primorska region, still retaining its typical medieval layout. Its strategic location at the junction of the Vipava Valley and the Karst Plateau granted it an exceptional role throughout the centuries.

Architecture Through the Ages

Built on a rocky outcrop of Golec Hill above the village of Branik, Rihemberk Castle rose on the site of a prehistoric hillfort, which dates back to between 1600 and 900 BCE. In the 12th or 13th century, a fortified stone structure was constructed here, complete with a pentagonal defensive wall. Soon after, the castle gained a massive defensive tower (bergfried) and a chapel dedicated to St. Pancras.

As military strategies evolved over the centuries, the castle was gradually expanded with additional layers of fortifications, residential quarters, and utility buildings, eventually forming the ring-shaped fortress still visible today. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, it was transformed into a comfortable noble residence, giving the castle its current recognizable appearance.

Noble Heritage and Prominent Owners

Rihemberk Castle was first mentioned in written sources in 1230, when it was owned by the de von Riffenberch family, important ministerials of the Counts of Gorizia. Through successful marriage alliances, the Rihemberk family acquired vast lands across the region. Their name endured even after the family line died out in the 14th century.

Following the death of the last Rihemberg noble, the castle passed into the hands of the castellans of the Counts of Gorizia, and in 1500, it came under the rule of the Habsburgs along with the rest of the Gorizia territory. In 1528, Archduke Ferdinand granted the estates of Rihemberk and Vipava to the noble Lanthieri family, who retained ownership until the end of World War II. During the 17th century, the Lanthieris extensively remodelled the castle into an elegant aristocratic residence.

In the 19th century, Rihemberk Castle became a popular destination for distinguished guests – even Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) is said to have visited while staying in nearby Miramare Castle near Trieste. After the death of the last male Lanthieri heir in 1910, the castle was inherited by his daughter Karolina, who was married to Baron Erdmann Levetzow. The Levetzow-Lanthieri family managed the castle until the end of WWII.

From Destruction to Restoration

The turbulent events of the 20th century left a profound mark on Rihemberk Castle. After being partially restored by the Lanthieri family following World War I, the castle was once again severely damaged at the end of World War II.

In 1945, the Allied Military Administration carried out emergency repairs to prevent further collapse of the castle structures. Restoration efforts continued through the 1960s and 1970s, but due to several interruptions, the process extended over many decades.

In recent years, the Municipality of Nova Gorica has taken the lead in a comprehensive restoration project, focused on preserving this invaluable cultural heritage site.

Today, Rihemberk Castle is gradually coming back to life – an increasingly vibrant cultural landmark, open to visitors who wish to discover its majestic past, unique architecture, and rich natural surroundings.

Ancient walls, a towering castle keep, and mysterious interiors transport visitors back in time and provide a magical setting for a variety of visual projects. Photographs, advertisements, films, and music videos shot at this historic site bring ideas, messages, and products to life against the backdrop of authentic medieval architecture.

In 2021, a digital 3D model of Rihemberk Castle was developed, including a reconstruction of its former appearance. This virtual model offers visitors a unique visual experience. A promotional film was also created, featuring not only the castle but also the fictional historical character of Countess Eleonora of Rihemberk.

To enhance the interactive experience, informational panels with QR codes have been installed throughout the castle. Using a smartphone, visitors can access a special web application that displays 360-degree views of the castle and its historical reconstruction.

Explore the 3D model >