Eugene of Savoy's Castle (Dvorac Eugena Savojskog)

Eugene of Savoy’s Castle (Dvorac Eugena Savojskog) in Bilje is a striking example of Baroque architecture and a fascinating piece of Croatian history. Commissioned by the renowned military commander Prince Eugene of Savoy after his victories against the Ottoman Empire, the castle was completed in 1712 and designed by the prominent architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt. Originally built as a hunting lodge, the castle’s quadrangular layout and elegant proportions reflect the tastes of the early 18th-century European nobility.

Set on the edge of the Kopački Rit Nature Park, the castle is surrounded by the tranquil landscapes of Baranja, making it a scenic destination for travelers interested in both history and nature. The estate once served as the centerpiece of Prince Eugene’s extensive holdings in the region, awarded to him for his military successes. After World War I, the castle was expropriated and repurposed as a state-owned agricultural estate, but its historical significance remains.

Today, the castle stands as a focal point for exploring the lesser-known Baranja region. While the interior may not always be open to the public and specific visiting hours or admission fees are not widely advertised, the exterior and grounds are worth a visit for their architectural beauty and the sense of history they evoke. A trip to Eugene of Savoy’s Castle offers a unique glimpse into Croatia’s baroque past and the legacy of one of Europe’s most influential princes.