Gracar Turn

Gracar Turn, also known by its Slovenian name Gracarjev turn and German name Feistenberg, is a historic castle situated on the northern outskirts of Hrastje in the Municipality of Šentjernej. Located in the traditional region of Lower Carniola in southeastern Slovenia, the structure dates back to the 14th century. Although it does not appear in medieval records, the renowned historian Johann Weikhard von Valvasor noted that a manor existed on the site during this period. The castle was originally constructed by the Grätzer family from the nearby settlement of Gradac, which is the source of its distinctive name. Architecturally, the core of the estate features a multistory residential palacium enclosed within a rectangular complex that is anchored by two imposing square towers.

The castle holds significant cultural importance due to its association with the celebrated Slovenian author Janez Trdina. After the property was purchased by Anton Rudež in 1821, Trdina frequently stayed there as a guest. It was within these walls that he composed several of his literary works, including his most famous collection, Tales and Stories of the Gorjanci Hills. The site also served as a home for Janž Tulščak, a notable Protestant preacher and writer who lived there until his death in 1594. This rich literary and religious heritage makes the castle a key landmark in the region's cultural history.

During World War II, the castle suffered considerable damage when part of the building was burned down by Yugoslav Partisans. However, the structure has since undergone renovation to restore its former glory. Today, Gracar Turn stands as a preserved example of regional architecture, featuring a gatehouse, a clocktower situated above a portico, and auxiliary housekeeping buildings. Its survival through centuries of ownership changes and wartime destruction highlights its resilience and enduring presence in the Slovenian landscape.