Zvolen castle was built by Louis I of Hungary, who built it like a gothic hunting castle. It was finished in 1382, when it was witness to an engagement of his daughter Mary and Sigismund.
John Jiskra of Brandýs, who became one of the most powerful commanders in
Hungary and this castle was one of his manors from 1440 to 1462. The castle was also often visited by king
Matthias Corvinus with his wife
Beatrice, who used this castle as a manor from 1490. About 1500 the external fortifications were built up with four round bastions and entrance gate. In the middle of the 16th century was built another floor with embrasures and corner oriel towers. About 1590 an artillery bastion was built also. The castle was rebuilt many times, but it retains its Renaissance look. The castle was nominated as a National culture monument for its historic, art and architecture values and it was reconstructed in the 1960s. The
Slovak National Gallery has a seat in this castle now, where it presents its expositions. ==Present==