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Hladomorna: A Glimpse into Medieval Defense

Explore the Hladomorna at Český Šternberk Castle: a medieval bastion offering a unique glimpse into Czech history and stunning panoramic views.

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The Hladomorna, or 'Hunger Tower,' is a striking defensive bastion of Český Šternberk Castle, constructed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. This imposing tower, with its sharp-edged design, served as a crucial element in the castle's fortification system, offering a unique glimpse into medieval military architecture and strategy.

A brief summary to Český Šternberk - Hladomorna

  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach to the Hladomorna and Český Šternberk Castle involves walking uphill.
  • Check the castle's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, especially if visiting between October and April.
  • Consider purchasing tickets in advance, particularly if you prefer a tour in a specific language.
  • Be aware that the climb to the top of the Hladomorna is not recommended for those with claustrophobia or vertigo.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Český Šternberk train station or bus stop, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the castle. Follow the road uphill towards the castle entrance. The Hladomorna is located within the castle grounds.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Český Šternberk by public transport from Prague, take a train from Praha Hlavni Nadrazi to Cesky Sternberk. Some routes may require a change in Čerčany. Alternatively, take a bus from Prague (Praha-Roztyly) to Český Šternberk. From the train station or bus stop, it is a 15-minute walk to the castle. Public transport tickets from Prague range from 100 Kč to 240 Kč.

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach Český Šternberk from Prague is by car. Take the D1 motorway (Praha - Brno) and exit at junction 41. Parking is available in a lot 300 meters from the castle. Parking costs approximately 2 euros for the entire day. From the parking lot, walk uphill to reach the castle entrance.

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Discover more about Český Šternberk - Hladomorna

The Hladomorna, an advanced southern bastion of Český Šternberk Castle, stands as a testament to late medieval fortification techniques. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, this structure was a key component of the castle's defense system, designed to protect against evolving artillery technologies. Strategically positioned on the highest point of a rocky ridge, separated by a wide, man-made moat, the Hladomorna features a massive central tower with a sharp, blade-like edge on its southern face. This design was intended to deflect enemy projectiles, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The tower's upper level includes strategically placed loopholes for light artillery, while a square opening in the floor leads to a dark, ground-level space that once served as a gunpowder and supply storage area. Never directly connected to the main castle, the Hladomorna was designed to be a self-sufficient stronghold during sieges. Its defenders relied solely on their own supplies of food, water, and ammunition. The current ground-level entrance was created in the 19th century. Today, visitors can ascend a winding staircase to the tower's upper platform, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Český Šternberk Castle itself has a rich history, dating back to around 1241 when it was founded by Zdeslav of Divišov. Named after the family's coat of arms, the eight-pointed star, the castle has been modified and renovated over the centuries, blending Gothic and Baroque styles. Remarkably, it remains in the hands of the same family for nearly 800 years.

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