The Epic History of Rabí Castle Ruins in Bohemia

The history of Rabí Castle ruins in Bohemia began as a simple fort. The lords of Velhartice likely founded the site around 1300. Later, the powerful Rýzmberk family transformed it into a massive fortress. They wanted to protect the local trade routes and gold-bearing rivers. The castle became one of the most fortified places in the Plzeň Region.

The most famous event occurred during the Hussite Wars in 1421. The blind general Jan Žižka led a siege against the castle. Legend says he lost his second eye right here under the castle walls. Despite his injury, his troops eventually captured the stronghold. This battle changed the course of the castle's military importance forever.

By the 17th century, the castle began to fall into disrepair. Fires and neglect turned the grand palace into ruins. Local villagers even used the stones to build their own houses. Preservation started in the early 20th century to save what remained. Today, it serves as a stunning open-air museum for all travelers.

9 Must-See Highlights at Rabí Castle Ruins

To fully experience the site, you should explore these specific locations. Each spot offers a unique look at medieval life. Here are the top things to see at Rabí.

• Quick picks: Best view: The Donjon; Best for families: The Castle Well; Best history: The Hussite Gate.

1. Name: The Great Donjon Type: Sight Why go: It is the tallest part of the castle with amazing views. Best for: Photographers. Where: The highest point of the inner castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Follow the main stairs from the courtyard. Tip: The wind is strong at the top, so bring a jacket.
2. Name: The Castle Cellars Type: Experience Why go: See where the lords stored their food and wine. Best for: History buffs. Where: Beneath the main palace ruins. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Enter through the ground floor of the palace. Tip: It is very cold inside even during summer.
3. Name: The 60-Meter Well Type: Sight Why go: It is a feat of medieval engineering carved into solid rock. Best for: Families. Where: The second courtyard. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Getting there: Located near the inner gate. Tip: Drop a small pebble to hear how deep it is.
4. Name: Trinity Church Type: Sight Why go: A beautiful example of late Gothic architecture near the castle. Best for: Art lovers. Where: Just outside the castle walls. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Usually free. Getting there: Walk down from the main entrance. Tip: Check the interior for rare religious carvings.
5. Name: The Outer Ramparts Type: Sight Why go: These walls are incredibly thick and show the castle's strength. Best for: Hikers. Where: Surrounding the entire complex. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Getting there: Follow the perimeter path. Tip: Great for seeing the castle from different angles.
6. Name: The Hussite Gate Type: Sight Why go: The spot where Jan Žižka's army broke through. Best for: History fans. Where: The main entrance area. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Getting there: It is the first gate you pass. Tip: Look for the plaque explaining the battle.
7. Name: The Model of the Castle Type: Experience Why go: See what the castle looked like before it became a ruin. Best for: Kids. Where: The visitor center. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the ticket office. Tip: Use this to orient yourself before the walk.
8. Name: Sušice Town Type: Day Trip Why go: A charming gateway town to the Šumava mountains. Best for: Food and relaxation. Where: 10 km from the castle. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: Use the bus connection from Plzeň to Sušice and Rabí. Tip: Try the local trout in a riverside restaurant.
9. Name: Velhartice Castle Type: Day Trip Why go: Features a unique stone bridge connecting two towers. Best for: Castle lovers. Where: 20-minute drive from Rabí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Similar to Rabí. Getting there: Best reached by car or local bus. Tip: Visit both on the same day for a castle marathon.

Planning Your Visit from Plzeň in 2026

Visiting Rabí from Plzeň is easy and rewarding in 2026. The drive takes about an hour through beautiful countryside. You can also find many Visit Czechia resources for regional maps. Public transport is a great option for those without a car. Most buses require a transfer in Sušice before reaching the castle gates.

Wear sturdy shoes when you visit the ruins. The ground is uneven and can be slippery after rain. Many areas are open-air, so check the weather forecast. Summer is the peak season with many medieval festivals. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures for climbing.

Tickets are usually sold for specific tour circuits. Some circuits focus on the tower, while others explore the cellars. You can often buy tickets online to save time. Most tours are in Czech, but English guides are available. Always check the official website for the latest schedules.