Frýdštejn is a medieval castle photogenically situated on top of a sandstone outcrop, which forms part of the Vranov ridge of sandstone that runs from the river Jizera to Frýdštejn. This sandstone ridge lies on the Lusatian tectonic fault and was uplifted to form the significantly hardened rock, due to the huge pressures involved in the tectonic uplift.

The exact date of Frýdštejn’s foundation is unknown but it was probably initially founded by the Markvartic family in the 14th century. Unlike many of the other Český ráj rock castles, which were usually only used as castles for little more than a century, Frýdštejn was occupied until the late 16th century. It saw action in the early 14th century Hussite wars when it was held by the Catholic faction and besieged by a Hussite army. The ruin has appeared in several Czech films and fairytales.

For more information see the castle’s web site.