Velké Losiny Castle is one of Moravia's finest Renaissance manor castles — but beneath its elegant arcaded courtyards lies one of the darkest chapters in Central European history. Between 1678 and 1696, a notorious witch trial frenzy claimed 56 lives here, making this place as haunting as it is beautiful.

Set in a gentle valley within the Hanušovice Highlands, the castle is surrounded by rolling forested hills that shift mood with every season. Spring brings blooming castle gardens, summer fills the arcaded galleries with life and cultural events, autumn wraps the surrounding woods in deep reds and golds, and winter lends the baroque wings an almost theatrical solemnity. It's the kind of place where history feels tangible and the atmosphere stays with you long after you leave.

• Velké Losiny village centre — the castle sits right in the heart of the village, just a short walk from the bus stop or car park; easy access, no hiking required
• From Šumperk (approx. 15 km) — reachable by bus or car, well signposted along the main road through the valley

• State-owned and managed by the National Heritage Institute (Národní památkový ústav)
• Declared a National Cultural Monument in 1995
• Open to the public — check current opening hours and available guided tour routes before visiting
• Nearby attractions include the historic Velké Losiny paper mill and spa resort

The witch trials here inspired Václav Kaplický's novel 'Kladivo na čarodějnice' ('Witches' Hammer'), which was adapted into a celebrated 1969 film by director Otakar Vávra — a sobering reminder that this beautiful place was once the stage for real human tragedy.