Helfenburk, Gothic castle ruin on Malošín Mountain near Bavorov, Czech Republic
Helfenburk is a castle ruin situated on Malošín Mountain near Bavorov in South Bohemia. The site covers rocky ground and contains remains of medieval palace buildings, towers, and defensive fortifications spread across the hillside.
Emperor Charles IV authorized the Rosenberg brothers to build this fortress in 1355 as recognition for supporting him in Italy. The castle served military purposes for centuries before eventually being abandoned.
The ruins display a medieval fortress design with thick walls and defensive structures that reveal how people of that era built for protection and control. Visitors can observe how the layout reflects the military thinking of the time.
The ruins are accessible year-round and you can explore the grounds on your own or arrange a guided tour. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is rocky and uneven in many places.
The side towers were built without ordinary window openings and instead feature bay windows designed for combat observation. This design allowed defenders to monitor and shoot at attackers while staying protected.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
