Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Koberstein Castle in Czech Republic

There is a KOBERSTEIN castle in The Czech Republic and the last lord was Krystof Koberstein from Koberstein.
This is a Gothic style castle. The castle was established by the end of the 13th century on Zámecká hora rocky spit to defend mines as well as a border fort to Vratislavské Bishopric. The downfall time is uncertain, it was probably during the many wars in the 15th century. This is a ruin of a less important castle. There aren't many distinct remains of the former castle so there isn't any romantic silhouette either.
A trip to a beautiful LOOKOUT: Follow the red tourist trail for 3 kilometres (super elevation about 180 metres) up to the ruins of an early-gothic castle of the Vratislav bishops (dating from the 2nd half of the 13th century).
The castle was built on the northeastern slope of the Zámecká hora (934 m.a.s.l.) overlooking the opening of the Cerná Opavice river valley. Its function was to protect the gold mines in the area round Zlaté Hory and the road from Olomouc to Nisa, which lead under the castle. It was a part of the border fortresses and customs points of the Vratislav episcopacy and defended its estates. The date of the castle destruction is unknown, possibly during wars at the end of the 15th century. In written records it is mentioned as late as in 1687 as an abandoned place but archaeological excavations (ceramic shards) date its foundation at the end of the 13th century.
There is a legend about manikins and a golden bowling alley connected with the castle:
Under the castle tower there is a meadow where, at noon, appears a golden bowling alley with grey pins and the queen made of blue lead. There are three manikins dressed in old-fashioned clothes playing the game who generously award those willing to arrange the fallen pins. The vision disappears in a strong whirlwind before long.
Rock climbers often use the castle rock. The rock consists of a massive cliff and two rock towers about 300 metres further, all formed of pegmatite mingled with quartz. It is compact, well structured with many ledges. Fixed clinches, rivets and rings secure the routes. The rocks are up to 30 metres high.
Diagram of Koberstein (Koberstejn) Castle:
Views of Koberstein Castle ruins:
Topo and Highway map showing location of Czech Koberstein Castle
If you ever visit this site please send pictures.

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