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Matthew Czak of Trenčín - Lord of the Váh and the Tatras

                                    - Thank God for all the castles! ... -

The best known and most influential descendant from a well-branched family of the Czak (Chak, Chaak) was Matthew Czak of Trenčín. Around the year 1300, Matthew Czak belonged among the richest lords in Hungary. Much of the lands he owned were either inherited or acquired.  Still, other lands he would get by unlawful confiscation, employing intrigues and coercion. At first, he would shrewdly enjoy the favour of the king Andrew III. It was after the king's death when a fight for the weakened Hungarian crown broke out and Matthew would look for benefits, masterfully pursuing his own selfish goals. In 1308, the new king Charles Robert Anjou would even go as far as naming Matthew a royal taverner, later making him one of the three king's palatines.  Needless to say, the king soon deeply regretted this unwise action, as Matthew's power soon grew beyond acceptable limits. The 14 dominions under Matthew's control witnessed his capricious behaviour and little regard for his king's interests. At last, the king Robert sent an army to deprive Matthew and other lords of their royal titles.  Although his power was weakened, Matthew of Czak would still hold a vast territory. The king Robert had to fight Matthew through a progressive capture of his castles.