Blaustein, Rock near Svoboda nad Úpou, Czech Republic

Blaustein, known in Czech as Modré kameny, is a quartzite rock formation on the southern slope of Světlá hora in the Krkonoše mountains. It originated as sediment on the sea floor and was folded into its present shape over millions of years. The highest rock offers a view of the surrounding countryside.

The rock got its German name during the centuries when German-speaking settlers lived throughout this part of Bohemia. After World War II, most German-speaking residents left the region, but place names like this one were kept.

The name "Blaustein" is German for "blue stone", matching the Czech name Modré kameny, which means the same. The rock is quartzite, formed from ancient seabed sediment, and the Czech name is used on local maps and trail signs.

The rock can be reached on foot as part of the marked hiking trails around Svoboda nad Úpou. Sturdy shoes are a good idea, as the ground around the rock can be wet or uneven depending on the season.

The quartzite rocks are the eroded remains of ancient seabed sediment, folded and lifted over millions of years. The highest of them gives a view over the surrounding countryside. The name Blaustein, German for "blue stone", matches the bluish cast of the rock.