Medieval architectural designs of the Črnomelj and Metlika castles

Abstract

The paper focuses on the architectural development of city castles in Metlika and Črnomelj, with an emphasis on their medieval architectural stages, which have so far not been subject to in-depth research. The origins of the Črnomelj Castle are believed to date back to the period before around 1200 when White Carniola passed into the hands of the Andechs-Weichselburgs. In the 13th century, the original tower-like building was added a walled yard with residential quarters and a tall tower (bergfried). Construction works that were carried out during later periods were completely in line with the original design. The Metlika Castle was built around 1300 as part of the planned construction of an urban centre of the small autonomous province. As in the case of the Črnomelj Castle, the original architectural design crucially influenced all subsequent construction activities that took place until the 20th century. It is important to note that the key elements of the high medieval designs of the Črnomelj and Metlika castles are still clearly distinguishable beneath the more recent layers.