Sovinec Castle is one of Moravia's most impressive medieval fortresses — a dramatic stronghold perched on a rocky spur whose walls have witnessed Teutonic Knights, the Thirty Years' War, Swedish sieges and a devastating fire in 1945. Few castles in the Czech Republic pack this much layered history into one remarkable site.

Set in the gentle hills of the Low Jeseník region, about fourteen kilometres south of Rýmařov, the castle rises steeply above the small town that shares its name. The rocky promontory drops sharply on all sides, giving the ruins a naturally commanding presence over the surrounding forested landscape. In spring the hillsides are lush and green, in autumn they glow with warm colours — and the massive bastions and curtain walls left from the 1632–1643 fortification works look dramatic in every season. The whole complex has a wonderfully atmospheric, slightly rugged feel that makes it a joy to explore.

• Village of Sovinec — the castle is directly above the town, a short walk uphill, difficulty: easy
• By car from Rýmařov in the direction of Uničov, approx. 14 km; parking available in the village of Sovinec

• Listed as a cultural monument since 1963
• The Thirty Years' War fortifications are among the most extensive preserved in the Czech lands
• The late Empire-style Chapel of St Augustine (built 1844–1845) stands within the castle grounds and is considered one of the finest Empire buildings in Moravia
• The castle served as a filming location for the movie 'Bathory'

Here's a fascinating footnote: the Teutonic Order, which owned the castle for centuries, is still legally pursuing its return — and has pledged to keep it open to the public if successful.