Celje, the medieval jewel of Slovenia, invites visitors to step into the world of the powerful Counts of Celje – a dynasty whose ambition, intrigue and romance shaped Central European history. From mighty fortresses to tragic love stories, their legacy still echoes through the town’s ancient stones and cultural life today.
The medieval town of Celje, once the seat of the powerful Counts of Celje, offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Slovenia’s most influential noble dynasty. Known for their political and cultural impact across Central Europe, the Counts of Celje, including figures such as Herman II and Barbara of Celje, continue to shape the town’s identity today.
Permanent exhibition The Counts of Celje at the Regional Museum of Celje. Photo by Nuša Javornik.
Torture devices at Celje Castle. Photo by Nuša Javornik.
At the Regional Museum of Celje, the permanent exhibition The Counts of Celje brings this illustrious family to life through artefacts, storytelling and historical context, while the Old Castle of Celje, a 12th-century fortress perched above the town, provides a breathtaking setting to explore their dramatic past. Here, visitors can uncover not only noble ambitions and grandeur but also the darker chapters of history in the castle’s museum of torture devices.
One of the most engaging ways to experience this legacy is by stepping into the shoes of a medieval scribe, trying your hand at calligraphy and learning about seals and scripts of the time – a hands-on experience blending education with cultural immersion.
A tragic love story remembered: 600 years since Veronika Deseniška’s death
In 2025, Celje marks a poignant anniversary – 600 years since the tragic death of Veronika Deseniška, the first woman in Slovenian lands known to be accused of witchcraft. Her love affair and secret marriage to Friderik II, son of Herman of Celje, led to conflict, imprisonment and ultimately her mysterious and untimely demise. The story of Veronika and Friderik is often compared to that of Romeo and Juliet – a timeless tale of love, loss and power.
Throughout the year, Celje Castle becomes the stage for events commemorating Veronika’s life and legacy. These include themed guided tours for families every first Tuesday of the month, public discussions every first Monday, addressing women’s rights, justice and love through the centuries, a documentary animation, a dedicated exhibition at the Regional Museum of Celje and a special postage stamp.
Perhaps the most anticipated is the return of Veronika Deseniška – A Musical of the City of Love. The musical, which presents Veronika’s story with emotional depth and artistic brilliance, is part of FEST MEST, Slovenia’s longest-running cultural heritage festival. Featuring music by acclaimed young Slovenian composer Leon Firšt, a script by musical theatre veteran Janez Usenik and stunning 3D video mapping, the show brings together over 60 musicians, actors and dancers in a production that celebrates love and legacy where it once unfolded.
Did you know?
The Counts of Celje transformed their castle into a more comfortable, almost luxurious residence, complete with heated upper floors – a rarity in medieval times.
A secret tunnel once connected the castle granary to the outside world, protecting its inhabitants from siege-induced starvation.
The iconic Friderik’s Tower is named after the young count who was allegedly imprisoned there by his father to prevent his union with Veronika.
Today, the castle is also a popular wedding venue – a romantic link between the past and present.
This article is part of an exciting partnership with with the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia, of which Celje is also a member. The partnership aims to bring you captivating stories from the historical towns nestled across Slovenia. As a regular feature of News from Slovenia, delivered to our valued subscribers, readers can expect to discover exciting stories from these timeless cities in the coming months. The contents and photos for this article were provided by the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia and Celje Tourism Board.
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