Rabí Castle is one of the largest and most impressive medieval ruins in the Czech Republic — a sprawling, atmospheric complex perched on a rocky spur above the Otava River, about 8 kilometres north-east of Sušice. Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who loves exploring dramatic old stonework, Rabí will not disappoint.

Sitting at 529 metres above sea level, the castle overlooks the rolling wooded hills of the Šumava foothills. In spring and summer the surrounding landscape is lush and green, making the contrast with the pale grey ruins particularly striking. Autumn brings warm golden colours to the valley below, and in winter the bare walls take on an austere, almost mythical quality. The viewpoint at the highest point of the ruins offers a lovely panorama over the meandering Otava River and the gently undulating countryside.

• Town of Rabí (parking near the centre) — short walk uphill to the castle, approximately 10–15 minutes, easy
• Sušice — reachable by bus or car to Rabí, then a short walk up to the castle hill

• The castle is open to visitors via four separate guided tour routes
• A small museum is housed in the restored sections of the ruins
• Managed by the National Heritage Institute (Národní památkový ústav)
• Declared a National Cultural Monument of the Czech Republic in 1978
• The ruins have served as a film location, most notably for the legendary Czech film 'Marketa Lazarová' (1967)

Here is a remarkable historical footnote: during the Hussite siege of July 1421, the great commander Jan Žižka lost his second eye at Rabí, rendering him completely blind — yet he continued to lead his armies to victory, making this castle an iconic site in Czech national memory.