Trosky Castle
Two volcanic plugs crowned by medieval towers rise from the Bohemian Paradise. Their names—Baba and Panna, the Crone and the Maiden—echo the landscape’s dramatic duality.
At a glance
Trosky Castle stands on the summits of two basalt volcanic plugs approximately 10 kilometres south of Semily. The lower peak supports a two-storey structure named Baba (47 metres high). The higher outcrop bears the four-sided tower of Panna, rising 57 metres. This stark pairing of towers has defined the Bohemian Paradise region for centuries.
History
The castle’s name translates literally as “ruins” or “debris,” reflecting its ruined state. Beyond this etymology, detailed historical records are limited in the available sources.
What you see
The site presents two distinct medieval structures perched on separate volcanic formations. Baba, the lower tower, comprises two storeys and occupies the smaller peak. Panna, the taller structure, rises from the higher basalt plug with a four-sided plan. Both towers exploit the natural fortress of their geological setting, their placement requiring visitors to navigate the rocky terrain between them.
Cultural significance
Trosky Castle functions as a landmark of the Bohemian Paradise, a region celebrated for its romantic landscape of sandstone formations, forests and villages. The castle’s visibility across the terrain has made it a symbol of this UNESCO-designated area and a focus for heritage tourism.
Key facts
- Country: Czech Republic
- Region: Liberec Region, municipality of Troskovice
- Coordinates: 50.51638889, 15.23083333
- Baba tower height: 47 metres
- Panna tower height: 57 metres
- Geological foundation: basalt volcanic plugs
Practical information & getting there
Trosky Castle is located in the Liberec Region, roughly 10 kilometres south of Semily. The site is accessible to visitors who can ascend the volcanic peaks to explore the towers and surrounding landscape. No specific opening hours or admission fees are confirmed in available sources.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Diventa un fotografo di Cultural Heritage Online
Condividi le tue foto dei luoghi: restano pubblicate con la tua firma come autore. Più vengono viste, più ti fai conoscere — e presto un concorso premierà le foto più apprezzate.
Accedi o registrati gratis per aggiungere una fotoDo you manage this place?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Keep it accurate — and make it work for you. Free for non-profit heritage institutions.