In the city of Mukachevo, Ukraine, Palanok Castle rises from the surrounding plain, looking like something out of a fairy tale. Impressive for both its sprawling size and its unique vantage point, the 14th-century fortress is built on top of a 223 ft (68 m) tall volcano.

Although the castle is located in the Ukraine, it is beloved by Hungarians. Palanok Castle was the site where Croatian-Hungarian princess Ilona Zrinyi, fighting for the liberation of Hungary, managed to hold off the Austrian Emperor's army for three years, before finally capitulating in 1688.

Palanok Castle has changed hands many times and played many roles over the centuries. In 1782, it was converted into a prison. During the following centuries, it was used by the Czechoslovak, Royal Hungarian, and Soviet Armies as barracks. The castle was even used at one point to train agricultural machine (tractor) operators.

The castle complex is divided into three parts: high, middle, and low castle. The total area of the castle is 150,694 sq ft (14,000 m2). There are 130 different rooms, and the castle has a complex system of underground passages which connect them.

Today, Palanok houses a museum dedicated to the history of Mukachevo and the castle. It is open for tours, with plenty to explore, including the underground passages and secret rooms. Some areas have been repaired, others are still undergoing restoration, while other parts are still in disrepair.

More Info: en.m.wikipedia.org