Benefits of the long-term research into the Pustý hrad castle (Deserted castle) in Zvolen and its prospects for the future

Abstract

The National Cultural Monument of the Pustý hrad castle in Zvolen towers majestically on a hill at the south edge of the town of Zvolen, in the heart of Slovakia. The interest in research into this site goes back to the 18th century. Modern archaeological research conducted annually since 1992 has confirmed the importance of the castle as the seat of the Zvolen County Committee and a favourite leisure and hunting location of Hungarian kings in the High Middle Ages. The article introduces the individual stages of research into this significant site and presents its results, as well as their contribution not only to the history of the castle but also to the enhancement of the specialist and lay public’s awareness of the potential and results of archaeological research. The paper also sums up all known published outcomes regarding Pustý hrad in Zvolen.