Background

Rabí Castle: A Majestic Ruin with a Storied Past

Explore the dramatic ruins of Rabí Castle, Bohemia's largest castle complex, where medieval history and stunning views await.

4.7

Perched atop a hill overlooking the town of Rabí, this extensive castle ruin stands as a testament to centuries of Bohemian history. Once a strategic fortress guarding trade routes and gold deposits, Rabí Castle is now a captivating destination for history buffs and sightseers alike, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval life.

A brief summary to Rabí Castle

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle ruins is uneven and involves some climbing.
  • Visit the restaurant in the town square, 'Vystřelený vočko' (The Shot-Off Eye), for traditional Czech cuisine.
  • Check the Rabí Castle website for seasonal events, such as medieval reenactments and festivals.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the castle's history and see key features.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the town square in Rabí, the castle is a short, uphill walk. Follow the signs leading towards the castle entrance. The walk is approximately 800 meters and takes about 10-15 minutes. Be aware that the path is lightly ascending and can be uneven in places.

  • Public Transport

    The closest train station to Rabí is in Žichovice, a neighboring village. From Žichovice, you can take a local bus or walk to Rabí Castle. The bus journey is short, and the walk is approximately 3 kilometers, taking around 45 minutes. Bus fares are typically inexpensive, costing around 20-30 CZK.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow the brown guideposts to the designated car park on the southern periphery of Rabí. Parking costs 50 CZK per day in the official car park. From the car park, it's an 800-meter walk to the castle ticket office along a path that passes through family houses. Note that parking on the town square is possible but significantly more expensive, costing 120 CZK per hour.

Unlock the Best of Rabí Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Rabí Castle

Rabí Castle, the largest castle ruin in Bohemia, dominates the landscape near the town of Rabí in the Plzeň Region. Founded possibly as early as the 12th century, the castle's strategic location made it a key defensive point, guarding trade routes between Sušice and Horažďovice and protecting the region's gold-rich river. Throughout its history, Rabí Castle has undergone numerous expansions and reconstructions, reflecting the changing needs and fortunes of its owners. The Lords of Rýzmberk, who owned the castle for nearly two centuries, significantly expanded the complex in the 14th and 15th centuries. In the 15th century, the castle faced two sieges by the Hussite armies, led by Jan Žižka, who famously lost his second eye during the second siege in 1421. Despite the damage, the castle was repaired and further fortified, becoming one of the most advanced fortresses in Bohemia. Although attempts were made to modernize the castle with artillery bastions, the work was never fully completed due to economic constraints. In the 18th century, a fire devastated the castle, and it was subsequently used as a source of building materials by local inhabitants. Since the 1950s, Rabí Castle has been under state ownership, and it was declared a National Cultural Monument in 1978. Today, visitors can explore the extensive ruins, including the massive prismatic tower, residential buildings, and artillery fortifications. The castle also hosts cultural events and offers guided tours that delve into its rich history.

Popular Experiences near Rabí Castle

Popular Hotels near Rabí Castle

Select Currency