The dominant and symbol of Zvolen is the Zvolenský zámok Castle standing on the banks of the river Slatina. Not far of it is the train which commemorates the Slovak National Uprising from the end of the Second World War.
The Castle was built in the second half of the 14th century for King Louis the Great of Kingdom of Hungary, fan of hunting in the surrounding Carpathian forests. The builders gave it the form of the Gothic hunting castle with rectangular ground plan following the Italian pattern.
During the Renaissance reconstruction in 1548, to the originally two-storied building another storey and four corner towers were added. Building interventions made after 1590 did not alter its Renaissance appearance. In the 18th century, the result of the remarkable Baroque reconstruction of the large hall in the western wing of the castle was a beautiful panel ceiling. Seventy-eight panels bear portrays of the Roman emperors and the Habsburg rulers.
Today the Zvolen Castle houses the Slovak National Gallery with a valuable collection of Gothic and modern art. Copies of several important wood carvings by Master Pavol of Levoca can be also contemplated here. Theatre shows called Zvolenské zámocké hry are held in its courtyard in summer.