Hrad na Radči Castle

Hrad na Radči, also known as Mitterwald, is a missing castle north of Těškova in Rokycany district. It is located on the secondary top of the Radec ridge at 680 metres high and contains remains of fortifications. The site is protected as a cultural monument and offers a view of medieval defence architecture. Its historical significance underlines its first documented mention of 1342 and its connection with remarkable figures such as Oldřich of Mitervald.

The origin of Hrad na Radči dates back to the 14th century when Oldřich was owned from Mitervald. Historical sources suggest that the castle was initially named Mitterwald, but was often referred to as Hradec to the locals, leading to the name Radec for the surrounding ridge. The first written mention of the castle dates back to 1342, associated with Oldřich from Mitervald, although the former association was accidentally attributed to a similar place near Pilsen. At the end of the 14th century, Peter of Oseka became his last known owner.

Architecturally, Hrad na Radči was characterized by a small fortified core surrounded by natural rock formations. The remnants include an arctically shaped moat and a wall from the south access side, although no trace of the buildings survived. This minimalist design reflects the strategic use of the landscape for defence purposes during its time.

The ownership has changed over the centuries, and Oldřich of Mitervald is an important figure in his early history. By 1400, Peter of Oseka was recorded as the last known owner before the castle fell into abandonment. The historical story is enriched with archaeological findings from the 19th century, which revealed coins from the Luxembourg era, swords, axes, horseshoes and other artifacts, although the legendary treasure to be buried on site remains undiscovered.

In 1652 Hrad na Radči was documented as long abandoned. This period marks the end of its active use and leaves only remnants that tell the story of its past meaning. The history of the castle stands against the background of Bohemia under the Luxembourg dynasty, which is the time for political consolidation and cultural development in Central Europe.

Today the ruins of Hrad na Radči are accessible via the red tourist trail from Lhota under Radchem to Těškova. Visitors can explore the remnants of the site, get a look at medieval fortification techniques and the historical context of its era. The surrounding landscape, part of Radec Ridge, adds to the charm of this cultural monument.

Hrad na Radči is proof of the rich history and architectural ingenuity of the region. Its preservation as a cultural monument ensures that future generations can appreciate its importance. Visitors are invited to explore this historic place where the echoes of the past continue to resurface in the midst of the natural beauty of Radec ridge.