Trosky Castle, Castle ruin in Tachov, Czech Republic.
Trosky Castle stands on two basalt rock formations and consists of two towers of different heights - Panna is taller and more slender, while Baba appears more solid. Both towers are connected by walls and a fortified courtyard, showing remains of living quarters and defensive structures.
The fortress was founded in the 14th century by the Vartenberk family and became the site of destruction during the Thirty Years' War. Despite its strong position on the rocks, it could not be defended against the attackers in the end.
The castle shows how medieval residents combined living quarters and defense on natural rock peaks. The two towers with their stone chambers and the courtyard between them tell the story of life in a fortified settlement.
The climb is steep and requires good footwear and some stamina, especially in wet weather when the rocks can be slippery. Visitors should allow time to explore the ruins at leisure and enjoy the views over the surrounding landscape.
Remarkably, no attacker managed to conquer the two rock fortifications before the Thirty Years' War, though many tried. This invincibility rested less on sophisticated equipment than on the natural strength of the rock formation itself.
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