History of Saint Miklos Castle
Once the castle was surrounded by moats and ramparts, now it is surrounded by modern houses and agricultural machinery. Nothing remains of the park planted in 1749, during the time of Ferenc Bashinda. The fortress was rebuilt many times: the most significant changes took place in 1734 and 1839 (the last time under the leadership of the architect G. Ignatius). At the same time, the workers found a skeleton embedded in the wall – so here is an open field for lovers of scary secrets!
More than three centuries ago, Chinadiiv Castle, or as it was then called Saint Miklos Castle, witnessed the birth of an incredible love between Countess Ilona Zrini and Hungarian rebel Imre Tekeli. Croatian beauty Ilona Zrini owned the castle of Saint Miklos. Her beloved young leader of the Kuruts, rebels against the Austrian Empire, was 14 years younger than her. Ilona’s mad love for the Hungarian hero who fought against Austrian rule was very dangerous for both of them. Shortly after the wedding, Imre Tekeli was thrown into prison. After the defeat of the rebels and the imprisonment of Tekela, the countess lost all her wealth and titles, and the children were taken to a monastery. But she courageously met her fate and forever remained a symbol of loyalty and devotion. She lived the last years of her life in exile in Turkey with her lover Imre Tekeli.
Local residents say that the spirit of the countess still roams the halls of the castle and is the patron saint of lovers. For visitors who believe in true love, this ghost helps them find a match. To those who do not believe, it blows a breeze in the face and sends an unsettling chill. Most of the mysterious and mystical feelings are associated with the Countess’s bedroom. Unmarried girls call out through her window for a sweetheart, believing that the spirit of the countess will help them find a mate. Couples in love touch the walls, looking into each other’s eyes so that their love never ends.
Yosyp Bartosz plans to restore Ilona Zrini’s bedroom to its original appearance. So that the young spend their first wedding night in a room with a good aura.
Chynadiyevo Castle welcomes visitors every day from 09:00 to 18:00. Entrance and tour of the castle are free. Everyone can leave voluntary donations for the restoration of the castle in a special box.
