First mentioned in 1264 as the property of the Kunšperk lords, Velenje Castle was a strategically important fortress which for many years, together with its neighbouring castles of Šalek and Ekenštajn, controlled the routes from the Celjska kotlina basin to Carinthia. The castle changed owners frequently from the 14th century onwards and underwent substantial modifications during the early 16th century; subsequent improvements over the last few centuries have given it the shape as we see it today - a residential building with vaulted cellars and a beautiful, arcade-enclosed courtyard, surrounded by a five-armed external wall with defence towers.
The castle is a popular venue for various cultural and music events organised by the ‘events’ section of Velenje Library.
Since 1957 the castle has housed the Velenje Museum, which is also responsible for the upkeep of the site.
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