Today, Frýdštejn dominates 15 metres high cylindrical tower with possibility of beautiful view. Fairy-tale side-scene of Middle Age seat served also to film-maker teams. They created here several fairy-tales for children. This place became popular among several Czech artists, even poet Kaerl Hynek Mácha did not missed. He stayed here during Easter 1835. The castle was founded in first half of 14th century. First written note is mentioned in 1385, when Bohunek Puklic is mentioned as castle owner. In 1425, when the castle was in property of Bohus of Kovan (ally of anti-Hussite Lusitania), Frýdštejn was unsuccessfully besieged with Hussite troops. Later, several other owners changed. There were, first of all, representatives of Hazmburg Parentage, Dubá Parentage and Wartenberg Parentage. In 1540, when Frýdštejn was joined to not far distant community of Český Dub, and it was abandoned. As deserted place is mentioned in written message of 1565.

Within 30-years time-period, Frýdštejn castle became refuge of persecuted persons, especially refugees and deserters of several armies. Its rock small rooms engraved on plastic sandstone rock served them well in the course of difficult time-periods. Nevertheless, cocksure destruction was prevented by activity of Beauty Club of Turnov. Their members bought the castle in 1892. So, this club averted a disaster against taking of ruins into pieces using for building stones. Archaeological investigation was effected consequently. The findings could be admired in Bohemian paradise Museum in Turnov.

Red marked tourist path leads you reliably to Frýdštejn castle. This section of Golden Path of Bohemian Paradise is very picturesque and very interesting. At first, you mount from Malá Skála holiday resort to romantic arranged rests of Vranov Castle, including secret Pantheon. Afterthat, you can continue along Vranov range top way up to Frýdštejn castle ruins. After its investigation, you can continue your walk to elegant look-out-tower, placed on Kopanina Hill, and have a look around the countryside of Bohemian Paradise, in direction To Ještěd or Jizerské Mountains.

Text: Denisa Arvajová

Photo: Google, Google Earth