Shaunstein (ruins)
Šaunštejn, one of the most beautiful rock castles in the territory of Bohemian Switzerland, rises above the village of Vysoká Lípa. Remains of the castle premises have been preserved here, and although a relatively steep and challenging path leads to the top, it is definitely worth a hike. From here there is a magical view of the surrounding picturesque nature, much of Bohemian Switzerland and (if the weather is good), even the peaks of the Saxon part of the Elbe sandstones. Since 1958, it has been protected by the state as a cultural monument.
Information for visitors
Interesting facts Shaunstein (ruins)
How to get here?
The most ideal way to Šaunštejn leads from Vysoká Lípa, where a yellow-marked hiking trail starts at the U Loupežáku restaurant, leading north. After about half a kilometer, turn left onto the path marked in red and walk another half a kilometer to the top of the castle.
The castle is open to the public all year round, only during the winter months the trails are not very passable here and the trip to Šaunštejn is not recommended.
History of Shaunstein
The castle is first mentioned in historical sources in connection with the year 1413. Its purpose was to defend the trade route called the Czech Road and to create a secondary center of administration. It was the property of the Vartenberk family and later the Berk family from Dubá. After the situation in the Czech lands calmed down, Šaunštejn lost its original significance, was abandoned and began to abandon. The last mention of the castle is dated 1490.
The appearance of the castle
Šaunštejn is located on a sandstone rock souk at an altitude of 340 m above sea level. The current appearance of the castle has retained some structural elements. Originally, there were operating buildings and fortifications at the foot of the rock, and the castle was entered through a wooden square tower.
At the very top is a living room carved into the rock, ramparts, residential towers and dragees, which were used to anchor wooden structures. The recessed round object once served as a warehouse.
Author: Andrea Štyndlová