The remains of Žužemberk Castle form a typical medieval fortress on a steep rock above the Krka River. There are also river activities, routes towards Dvor and traces of ironworking. If you would like to combine culture with time by the water, Žužemberk offers a range of themes, from a castle visit to a suggested route along the river.

Castle and Krka River

The castle dates back to the 13th century and was fortified with seven defensive towers in the 16th century. Its surviving remains stand high above the Krka River, making medieval defensive architecture a striking part of the townscape. You can visit and explore the castle independently or with a guide. As visiting conditions may change, it is best to check the latest access information before your trip.

The Krka River also has a special connection to the landscape: it is considered Slovenia’s only river with tufa deposits and has a total of 90 tufa barriers. Some particularly beautiful barriers are located near Žužemberk. This means you can consider the river not only as a backdrop to the castle, but also as a natural attraction in its own right when planning your trip.

On foot, by bike and by the water

A suggested route from the centre of Žužemberk to Dvor offers opportunities to swim, paddle, go boating or fish along the Krka River. This is a suggested route; the activities mentioned are different ways to spend time by the river. If you prefer walking, the “Along the Iron Roads to Dvor” trail is considered a pleasant hike for all generations. Before setting off, you can visit the Žužemberk pavilion in the square in front of the castle.

Cycling is also associated with the town: the “Cycling on the Roman Road” event takes place in June and passes through Ivančna Gorica, Valična vas, Žužemberk and Dvor. Separately, you can follow the route of a Roman road in Žužemberk. If an event date is important for your trip, check the latest dates and organisational information in advance.

Culture and ironworking in Dvor

In nearby Dvor, the restored Auersperg ironworks complex includes the Lončarija exhibition space and the Trajberk visitor centre, with multimedia facilities. Guided tours of the complex are available by prior arrangement. The Ironworks Museum and gallery in Dvor display original cast-iron pieces and demonstrate smelting, mould-making and casting. Demonstrations and visitor services may change; check what is currently available before your visit.

The connection with Žužemberk is also reflected in technical artefacts. A cast-iron pumping station in the town was built by the former Auersperg ironworks in nearby Dvor. On the balcony of the fire station, you can see a restored fire pump belonging to the Požarna bramba Žužemberške, dating from 1888.

Local history and events

The Museum of Famous People from Suha krajina displays manuscripts, documents, objects, books and photographs. Visits can be arranged in advance with the school. Breg in Žužemberk is considered the birthplace of Zalla Zarana, the first Slovenian film actress in Hollywood. Another link to local history is Tomaž’s Love Bridge: the wooden bridge stands on the site of a former bridge that connected the two riverbanks near two mills.

The Suhokranjski dnevi take place on Žužemberk Municipality Day, 15 July, and combine cultural, leisure, ethnological and tourism events. The traditional Medieval Day at the castle features knightly battles, demonstrations of traditional crafts, and medieval music and dance. The 2025 Suhokranjski dnevi programme also included a traditional Ješprenj cooking competition. Before your trip, check which events are taking place on your dates.

Practical information

Free parking is available in front of the castle in the town centre; nearby attractions can be reached on foot or by bike. At the nearby Gostilna pri gradu, you can get a leaflet with access to audio guides for 20 castle stations. As visitor information may change, it is worth checking shortly before you arrive. Together with the visits in Dvor, river activities and cultural offerings, this gives you a broad picture of what makes Žužemberk a distinctive destination.

Discover more destinations: Mirna Peč, Straža, Šmarješke Toplice, Škocjan, Srednje Grčevje, Mali Ban, Brezovica, Šmihel Pri Žužemberku

Return to the main travel overview: Novo Mesto.