© Slovak Post, 2007 Castle hill with this stone-made dominant of the Orava region was inhabited as early as prehistoric times. Settlements with rampart-fortifications were over time erected in the younger Hallstadt-period and one such settlement was built in Oravsky Podzámok on the hill - laying the foundations of the castle. The first reference to Orava Castle dates back to 1267, when ruler Belo IV wrested control of the castle. The present shape of the castle complex is the result of gradual extensions and the rebuilding of the defensive, dwelling, and market structures in the Upper, Middle and Lower Castle between...