Kolštejn Castle

Kolštejn (Goldenstein, also called Branná) is located on a rocky cliff above the river of Branná. The castle initially guarded the trade route from Silesia to the capital of Moravia – Olomouc. The reconstructed Renaissance chateau together with preserved remnants of the original Gothic castle have now come back to life in the form of the historic Chateau Goldenstein Hotel.

During more than 700 years, the castle was owned by 11 noble families, including John of Luxembourg, the House of Žerotín, and members of the House of Liechtenstein. The current Renaissance chateau comes from the 16th century when the Gothic castle of Goldek, first mentioned in 1325, was redeveloped. During the 15th century, the castle was turned into a robust fortress, of which only the enclosing wall, part of the west palace, and the large defence tower remain preserved. In the 17th century, Kolštejn played an important role during the Thirty Years’ War when the Imperial Army fought back the Swedish Army. But the importance of this strategic site was gradually waning. A brewery and later a municipal school were located in the chateau buildings. In the first half of the 20th century, the chateau was transferred to the municipality, later to the state, and due to its miserable condition, it was almost demolished at the end of the last century.

The redeveloped chateau now offers a guided tour, describing the architectural changes across the centuries and the turbulent and rich history. In addition to the tour, the castle and chateau complex offers accommodation and you can experience a romantic, unusual stay in the Chateau Goldenstein Hotel.