Vurberk Castle

Vurberk Castle stands on a hill above the Drava River in the municipality of Duplek, on the southern edge of the Slovenske gorice hills. Its origins date to the 12th century, with an indirect written reference from 1238. Its strategic position made it an important medieval stronghold, held over the centuries by noble families including the Lords of Ptuj, the Stubenbergs and the Herbersteins. The castle is also associated with the Vurberk dragon, preserved in its historic coat of arms.

The castle was damaged by bombing in 1945, during the Second World War, and much of the complex was lost in the following decades. Surviving features include a Renaissance entrance portal, defensive walls, towers and parts of the former castle buildings. Some of its valuable historic furnishings were transferred to Ptuj Castle in 1907, where they remain preserved.

The restored castle courtyard now serves as a venue for concerts, theatre and cultural events. The hilltop offers views over the Drava plain and surrounding hills. Vurberk combines medieval history and castle architecture with the cultural life of the local community.