Sloup Castle: Visit a Distinctive Castle in the Czech Republic

The interior of Sloup Castle is fairly rustic, but the towering exterior is without a doubt one of the most striking castles in all of Europe. Located in the Czech Republic, Sloup Castle—which means “column” in Czech—is carved directly into a rugged slab of sandstone that stands over 100 feet tall. The placid reflection of Sloup Castle’s stately exterior in serene Hradni Pond only serves to enhance the castle’s mystical beauty.

Originally constructed in the 14th century by a noble Czech family, Sloup Castle was strategically located near a bustling salt trade route. The castle’s rugged stone exterior—which served as an impenetrable fortress early on—eventually degraded after numerous military onslaughts. By the 16th century, Slope Castle was a smoldering ruin that had been abandoned and left to languish.

Near the end of the 16th century, a group of religious hermits—who were drawn to Sloup Castle’s austere stone exterior—converged on Sloup Castle and made the structure their own. Today, visitors can tour a simple yet striking chapel that was built by the hermits. Sloup Castle lacks the ornate artwork found in some European castles, but the textured walls and cavernous stone walkways have a mesmerizing charm that is well worth experiencing.

Visitors can sign up for walking tours of Sloup Castle which offer access to the rough hewn interior of the castle. Travelers can also enjoy striking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. One of the most noteworthy chambers of Sloup Castle is the dungeon—which features carvings created by prisoners that are still visible centuries after they were first etched into the stone walls.

Sloup Castle periodically hosts events such as concerts, plays, and even the occasional historical jousting match. The stone rooms of Sloup Castle make for an excellent concert venue—especially when the dim passages are illuminated by candlelight.

Another celebrated attraction in the northern Bohemian village of Sloup—which shares the same name as the castle for which it is known—is the Rozhledna Na Strazi lookout tower. For small fee, visitors can access a sweeping view of Sloup Castle, gorgeous mountains, and verdant forests.

If you’re a castle lover, a visit to Sloup Castle is an absolute must. What Sloup Castle lacks in opulence, it makes up for rustic charm. The dramatic beauty of Sloup Castle will make you feel as though you have stumbled upon the castle of a benevolent queen who has the power to grant your most cherished wish.