Boštanj Castle was built in the mid-16th century. According to tradition, a watchtower was initially constructed, later expanded and surrounded by walls and defensive towers. The grand castle building was named Weissensein. likely derived from the ‘white stone’ used in its construction. In the 18th century, it became known as one of the most beautiful Slovenian castles However, the castle was significantly damaged during World War II. The remnants of its walls remind us of its former grandeur.
Notably, Boštanj Castle was the birthplace of Rihard Blagay, after whom the first protected flower in Slovenia, Blagay’s daphne, was named. The last family to reside in the castle was the Lazzarini family until 1942. In 1943, the castle was burned down. The Lazzarini family transported their belongings by train to Austria over three days, relocating just in time before the castle was set ablaze.
