The castle was originally built around 1260 to protect the town of Samobor and its royal silver mining interests.
It served as a key strategic point during the conflict between King Ottokar II and Stephen V of Hungary.
The Arpadović dynasty, followed by various noble families like the Frankopans and Erdödys, owned the site throughout its active history.
Extensive structural renovations were carried out in the 16th and 17th centuries to modernize the living quarters, including the addition of an arcade courtyard.
The castle was officially abandoned in the 18th century due to the impracticality of living in a rugged hilltop fortress compared to valley manor houses.
The ruins have undergone several conservation phases since the 1990s to prevent further collapse of the remaining masonry.
Samobor Castle, known locally as Samobor-grad, is a 13th-century fortification positioned on the Tepče hill overlooking the Vugrinščak stream valley. Commissioned by King Ottokar II of Bohemia, the stone ruins represent a transition from defensive fortress to a residential castle. The site features the remains of a defensive wall, a residential palace, and a small chapel dedicated to Saint Anna. Abandoned by the noble families in the early 18th century, the structure gradually fell into decay. Access is provided exclusively by a moderate hiking trail through the surrounding beech and oak forest. The site offers panoramic views of the town of Samobor and the surrounding Žumberak mountain range.
The elevated vantage point within the ruins facing eastward toward the town center.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the path consists of unpaved, uneven forest terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no food or drink services at the summit.
Visit during the early morning to catch the mist rising from the Vugrinščak valley.
Attempting to reach the site in street shoes or flip-flops; avoiding the marked forest trails in favor of off-path scrambling.
Respect the ruins by not climbing on, defacing, or removing stones from the walls.
