The manor house in Deva already had a history before the middle of the 13th century. The Magna Curia was first mentioned in a written source only at the end of the 16th century. The castle’s contemporary look can be accredited to refurbishment works from the 17-18 century. Among its owners, we should mention Prince Gábor Bethlen, who made significant repairs to the building between 1608 and 1609. Afterwards, the estate passed to his wife, then to his nephew, and later to his nephew’s widow, Mária Széchy. He sold the manor to György Rákóczi I. in 1640, from whom the principality took over. In 1743, Count János Haller and Baroness Zsófia Daniel took over. They remodelled the castle. Pavilions were built on the corners, a decorative staircase was added, and the building was decorated with stucco ornaments and rococo door frames. The courthouse became the property of the city of Deva at the end of the 19th century. It has hosted a museum since 1934.
Click on the play button to listen
