Dunajec 3 Regions
Lesnica - Łącko - Szczawnica

The history of Ľubovňa Castle is not only about walls and buildings. It also includes the fruit orchards, established more than a hundred years ago as an example of a nobleman’s vision of combining economy with nature.

Location and Origins of the Orchards

The orchards of Jan Zamoyski are located on the northern slope of the hill adjacent to the castle, about 150 meters south of the entrance gate. Nearby stands an 18th-century historic building that once served residential, administrative, and educational functions. Today, it houses the management of the Ľubovňa Castle Museum.

Established at the beginning of the 20th century by Jan Kanty Zamoyski, they were part of a modern noble estate. They served as a source of income but were also an aesthetic element of the entire complex. This was an example of land management that combined noble traditions with a modern approach to agriculture.

Trees from the Historic Orchard Layout

Most of today’s trees are younger plantings, though some may date back to Zamoyski’s original design. No dendrochronological studies have been carried out to confirm the age of individual specimens. It is likely that only the most resilient species, especially pear trees, have survived.

The preservation of older trees was possible thanks to the care provided until the 1960s by the staff and students of the agricultural school operating in the castle buildings. After the school was closed, the orchards were left without systematic maintenance, which led to thinning of the tree stand and partial removal of plantings.

Current state

Currently, the orchard contains 124 fruit trees and shrubs: apple, pear, plum, cherry, walnut, and gooseberry. They cover an area of about 1.5 hectares. The selection of species corresponds to the climatic conditions of the region and the traditional preferences of the Spiš inhabitants. Local varieties adapted to the mountain climate and short growing season dominate.

Historical and cultural significance

Jan Zamoyski’s orchards are considered one of the first examples of modern fruit growing in the Spiš region. The project combined practical and aesthetic functions and was ahead of its time. Today, the orchards form a picturesque element of the castle’s panorama and its surroundings.

Visiting and accessibility

The orchard is best viewed from the terrace of the Castle Distillery restaurant, from where there is a panoramic view of the entire site. At present, the area is not adapted for visiting, as there are no paths or information boards. When visiting Ľubovňa Castle, it is worth appreciating the orchard also in the context of the noble landscape, which is gradually regaining its former character.