The original seat of the region was above the confluence of Slatina and Hron rivers on a steep cliff in a castle from the 12th century, known today as Pustý hrad (meaning "Deserted castle").
The historical center of the area was located at a high point where the Slatina and Hron rivers meet, within a castle that dates back to the 12th century. This location is now referred to as Pustý hrad ("Deserted Castle").