Starý Berštejn, Gothic castle ruin in Vrchovany, Czech Republic.
Starý Berštejn is a castle ruin located on a hilltop near Vrchovany in central Bohemia. The remaining stone walls display Gothic architectural features characteristic of late medieval fortifications.
The castle was founded in the 15th century by Jindrich Hlavac from Duba and later passed between various noble families. The site eventually became unsuitable for residential use, prompting abandonment.
The structure represents Gothic architectural principles and received official recognition as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
The ruins sit on a hilltop above the village and offer views of the surrounding countryside. The path to reach the site involves steady uphill walking, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
When the original site became impractical, a new castle called Nový Berstejn was built nearby as a replacement. This shift illustrates how nobility adapted their properties to meet changing needs over time.
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