Renaissance SoteskaRenesančna Soteska

Renesančna Soteska is an annual medieval/Renaissance fair held at the Soteska Castle grounds (the ‘Devil’s Tower’ and manor) in June 1. Organized by the Dolenjske Toplice municipality and local associations, the festival reenacts castle life from the Middle Ages and Renaissance with costumes, crafts, and entertainment. It features a medieval market, archery and sword-fighting demonstrations, Renaissance dances, music and jokers, and workshops for all ages 1 2. The event transforms the castle’s historic gardens into a living history tableau, giving the community a hands-on way to honor their local heritage.

Soteska Castle (now partly ruins) dates to 1608 and was the seat of the Auersperg noble family. The Devil’s Tower is a Baroque garden pavilion of the former castle 1. The festival leverages this historical site, bringing its legends and architectural heritage to life each year. It is a community-driven tradition that highlights the region’s Renaissance and medieval roots through popular education and entertainment.