Pasture in the Castle and its Surroundings

In the past, herds of loose stock, especially sheep, goats, and cow, were a typical part of the countryside around Devín and significantly contributed to the formation of the country character. Their presence in Devín is documented by historical photographs and the then illustrations of the castle site and its surroundings. Pasture is still important not only from the economic and landscaping points of view, but it also contributes to the maintenance of natural values. A typical example is the opposite slopes of Devínska Kobyla, where it contributed to the development and consequent maintenance of unique meadow and foreststeppe biotopes characterized by extraordinary diversity both of the flora and fauna. In total, more than 1,100 species of vascular plants including rare species and species protected by the law such as yellow-flowered pheasant’s eye (Adonis vernalis), various species of pasqueflower, unique orchids, but also a lot of unique butterflies and other invertebrates can be found here. Based on the cooperation with the Regional Association for Nature Conservation and Sustainable Development, grass areas in the Devín castle site have, along with mechanical mowing, been also maintained by pasturing sheep, goats, and donkeys.