Křikava, Gothic castle ruin in Černívsko, Czech Republic

Křikava is a medieval castle ruin featuring Gothic architecture, situated on elevated terrain in the Strakonice District. The remaining stone structures preserve their original form and demonstrate the defensive building techniques used during the 14th century.

Hugo von Donnerstein, court master of Queen Blanca, founded the castle in the mid-14th century; he acquired the village of Myštice from Charles I in 1348, and the castle was first documented in 1357. His sons divided the Křikava estate in 1367, and the lords alternated the predicates von Donnerstein and z Křikavy. In 1402 Dobešík z Boru seized and plundered it, and it was ruined during the Hussite Wars.

The ruin displays Gothic architectural features that reveal how medieval fortifications were built in this region. Visitors can observe the structural layout and defensive design choices that shaped the castle during its time of occupation.

The ruin can be reached via marked trails in the Strakonice District and sits on open ground without protective structures. Visitors should expect uneven terrain and exposed areas, so bringing appropriate weather-resistant clothing is advisable.

The castle core was a prismatic residential tower in the middle of the upper courtyard, with a palace on the south side; four-metre-high masonry remnants of the tower survive. On the southwest side, wall remains of the palace contain a spiral staircase that led into a filled-in cellar.