Perched on a rocky spur above the Rolava River, right in the town of Nejdek, the Black Tower stands as the last surviving remnant of a castle founded back in the 13th century. It's a great stop for anyone who enjoys stumbling upon real medieval history tucked inside a small town, without needing a big mountain trek.

The site offers a compelling glimpse into border-guard architecture from centuries past, with fragments of the original perimeter fortification still visible around the tower. The rocky outcrop gives decent views over the Rolava valley and the surrounding Krušné hory (Ore Mountains) foothills. In summer the greenery softens the stark stone tower, while in autumn and winter the ruins take on the moodier, watchful character they were originally built for.

How to get there

• Nejdek town centre - short walk, easy route, just a few minutes from the main square
• Town parking area - approach through the old streets, easy trail suitable for most visitors

Practical information

• The Black Tower has been protected as a cultural monument since 1964
• The castle was originally divided into two sections separated by moats
• The tower's highest surviving floor dates from the Šlik family's early 16th-century rebuilding

For centuries the surviving Black Tower doubled as the bell tower of St. Martin's church - a nice reminder of how an old border fortress quietly became part of everyday town life.