Zvířetice Castle, Castle ruin in Bakov nad Jizerou, Czech Republic
Zvířetice Castle is a Gothic fortress ruin situated on a ridge overlooking the Jizera River. Two defensive towers and remnants of walls showcase the medieval construction techniques used here.
Zdislav of Lemberk founded the castle at the start of the 14th century above the Jizera, near the trade route from Prague to Zittau. The Vartenberks rebuilt it as a Renaissance chateau after 1528, and the Waldsteins added a Baroque chapel. Fires in 1693 and 1720 led to its abandonment.
The information center displays exhibitions with physical models and artifacts that document life at the site. These exhibits help visitors understand the stories of those who shaped this place over time.
The site is accessible year-round with facilities at the information center including refreshments and bicycle repair tools. Wear sturdy shoes as the paths across the grounds can be uneven and steep in places.
The tower lost part of its height around 1900; in the 1930s the Czech Tourist Club turned the stump into a lookout. From the top you see the Jizera valley, Baba hill, Ještěd, Bezděz and the Krkonoše mountains.
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