Ralsko, Basalt summit in Liberec Region, Czech Republic
Rollberg is a basalt cone rising about 698 meters above sea level, standing isolated within the Bohemian Plateau landscape. A protected nature reserve at its summit is crisscrossed by marked hiking trails leading to castle ruins and geological formations.
Ralsko Castle was built in the 13th century and received two residential towers in the 14th century before being abandoned around 1505. The fortress played a central role in controlling the region for centuries before it was eventually left to decay.
The mountain carries different names across languages, with each reflecting the long German-Czech connection in this region. Visitors can observe how the place has linked both cultures together over time.
The mountain is accessible via marked hiking trails suitable for visitors of different abilities. The best time for walking is during warmer months when the paths are dry and visibility is good.
In 1468, the Bohemian Lusatian League captured the fortress using an unusual trick: they hid soldiers among cattle supposedly returning to the castle grounds. This method exposed security weaknesses of the time and led to new fortification measures.
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