Dioš Castle, located in the settlement of the same name near Končanica, has been attracting attention for years with its beauty and rich history. Although it is not among the most famous castles in Croatia, its story and fate are extremely interesting. It was built in 1904 by the Tüköry family, and was originally intended as a manor house, not a summer house or hunting lodge, which gives it a serious and elegant appearance. The castle stands out for its complex architecture, two towers and spacious interior spaces, and its past is characterized by changes of owners and different functions.
The most important turning point in the history of the castle took place in 1941, when the Salesians bought the castle and renamed it Mary’s Castle. Here they founded a chapel dedicated to Mary Help of Christians and established a spiritual center that attracted worshipers from all over the area. The Salesians worked diligently on education and pastoral work, including caring for parishioners from the surrounding villages. Life in the castle was intense, and the Salesians, in addition to their spiritual work, cultivated the land themselves and raised animals to ensure supplies for their community.
After the Second World War, the castle was nationalized, and the Salesians were forced to leave it. During communist rule, the castle was used for various purposes, including a school and military training. It was only in 1995 that the castle was returned to the Salesians, who then began the necessary repairs and reopened the chapel.
Today, this historic pearl has been completely restored and new life has been breathed into it.