Lipý Castle, Castle ruin in Česká Lípa, Czech Republic

Lipý Castle consists of stone walls and foundations positioned on an artificial island created by the Ploučnice River channel system. The remaining structures display the medieval construction methods and fortification layout that once defined this site.

The fortress was founded in 1268 by the Ronovci family as a wooden structure that evolved into a stone fortification. It fell into decline during the 17th century and faced partial demolition in 1957 due to structural instability.

The name Lipý comes from the Czech word for linden tree, and the Berka family of Dubé and Lipý used the castle as one of their seats for over a century. Since 1995 the grounds have hosted cultural events for the town of Česká Lípa.

Marked pedestrian paths from Česká Lípa town center lead to the castle ruins and are easy to follow. Guided tours are available especially during summer months when conditions are most favorable for exploring the site.

In 1867 the Kounic family leased the decaying castle to Salomon Altschul and Josef Müller, who built a sugar refinery on the site and demolished most of the remaining palace. The refinery ran until the start of World War I, and some empty ruins later served as a theatre, a Jewish and a general school, and a bell foundry.