Pravda Castle, Castle ruin in Pnětluky, Czech Republic
Pravda Castle is a hilltop ruin near Konětopy in the Czech Republic, with stone walls and foundations still visible above ground. The remains follow the layout typical of a medieval stronghold, with thick walls set on a naturally elevated position above the surrounding land.
The first written mention of Pravda dates from 1523, when Jan the Elder Mašťovský of Kolovrat sold it to Děpolt of Lobkovice. Historians place its construction in the 15th century, possibly begun by Beneš of Kolovrat in the 1430s. By 1593 it was recorded as a deserted castle.
The name Pravda means "truth" in Czech, a word tied to the Hussite era. In the 19th century the ruin became a meeting place of the Czech National Revival, and a mass rally was held here on 12 July 1868. Today it draws tourists and tramps who camp in the courtyard.
The site is reached by following marked trails that pass over what remains of the old moat. The ground is uneven and involves some climbing, so sturdy footwear is a good idea before setting out.
The castle's name means "truth" in Czech, a word tied to the Hussite era in which the fortress probably arose. Neither Beneš of Kolovrat nor his son Jan, who likely built it in the 1430s–1460s, ever used the predicate "of Pravda".
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