Paka Fort was built in the second half of the 13th century on the steep hill of Gradišće, below which flows the stream of the same name, overlooking the key passes of the Kalnik hills. Its irregular hexagonal plan, massive stone ramparts and keep testify to its role in watching over and protecting the whole area. Traces of the everyday life of the soldiers who made up its garrison have been found in the courtyard – hearths, pottery fragments, iron arrowheads and knives.
A fire in the 15th century marked the end of its use. Today Paka is the first fully excavated and conserved medieval castle in this part of Croatia, protected as a cultural heritage site of the Republic of Croatia.
It is reached through the forest south of town, on the way to Kalnik – and in the same stream, a little further down, beavers have built their dams.
