Pořešín Ruin
Pořešín is situated on the rock edge above the left bank of Malš, about four kilometres north of Kaplice in the South Bohemia region. The ruin of the chateau is at an altitude of 525 metres and since 1963 it has been protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. The chateau has become part of the Czech-Austrian Earth Road, which leads on important chateaux and chateaux.
The origin of Pořešína dates back to the turn of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. The chateau was founded by members of the Bavarian family from Strakonice, with the likely founder being Bavaria III. The first written mention of Pořešín dates back to 1312, when the purkrabi became the administrator. In 1317, however, the Bavarians exchanged the chateau for Vitìjovice and the new owners took over the addition from Pořešína. The family was established primarily in the service of the Rožmberks, with Markvart z Pořešína reaching significant Earth sites in the second half of the fourteenth century. The estate later inherited his underage grandson Markart II, who however died in 1418 shortly after reaching maturity.
The following period was unstable. The chateau was dominated by Hippo of Maršovice, in 1423 he unsuccessfully tried to conquer it by the betrayal of Jan Žižka. The decisive change brought Oldřich z Rožmberka, which occupied the chateau. In 1434, Emperor Zikmund gave him his death right to the estate. Oldřich Pořešín joined the New Chateau and the chateau was destroyed because it no longer served purpose. For years, the estate was tried by its former owners, in particular Jan of Křežení, a relative of Markarta of Pořešína. Legal disputes continued until the 1960s.
The building belonged to the Bergfrit chateaux Pořešín. In its original form it had a two-piece plan with a two-space palace and a round bergfrit in the core. Since the middle of the 14th century, the owners have extensively rebuilt it - they have increased the perimeter wall and attached two ditches. The first front cover had a trapezoidal plan; The second was protected by a massive branch tower with a cradle-trailing bridge, which had a special device called a wolf pit.
Today, the chateau is cared for by the Castle Association in Malš, which carries out security work, archaeological research and tries to revive the site with various cultural actions. A museum with a material reconstruction of the chateau from before its demise was established in the building in front of the chateau.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 1963
- The chateau was protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
Architectural development
The chateau in its early form was one of the chateaux of the bergfrit type and was probably two-piece. During the fourteenth century there was extensive reconstruction, including an increase in the perimeter wall of the chateau core and the addition of the mantle wall.
Historical events
- 1312
- First written mention of the chateau.
- 1423
- An attempt by John's His to conquer the chateau with betrayal.
- 1434
- Oldřich z Rožmberka has advanced its death law and joined the New Chateaux.
Points of interest
- Pořešín is situated on the rock edge above the left bank of Malš and is protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic since 1963.
- The chateau was founded by the Bavarians of Strakonice, the probable founder was Bavaria III. The first written mention of Pořešín dates back to 1312.
- In 1434 Emperor Zikmund transferred his death right to the estate to Oldřich of Rožmberk, which led to the chateau being occupied and later demolished.
- Pořešín was one of the bergfrit chateaux with a two-space palace and a round bergfrit in the core. The owners have remodeled it extensively, attached two ditches.
- Today, the chateau is taken care of by the Castle Association in Malš, which carries out archaeological research and tries to revive the site with various cultural events. A museum with a material reconstruction of the chateau was set up in front of the chateau.
Guide
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This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
The ruins of Pořešín castle lie approximately four kilometres north of Kaplice, on a rocky spur above the left bank of the Malše river, at an altitude of 525 metres. Since 1963 it has been protected as a cultural monument. It is also one of the stops on the Czech-Austrian trail of castles and chateaux called Zemská cesta.
The castle was founded at the turn of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries by the Bavors of Strakonice as an administrative centre for their more distant estates. The founder was probably Bavor the Third of Strakonice. The first written mention dates from 1312. However, already in 1317 the Bavors exchanged Pořešín for Vitějovice. The new owners began to use the name of Pořešín and served mainly the Rožmberks. However, Markvart of Pořešín held important regional offices in the second half of the fourteenth century.
His sons entered the clergy, and so the estate was inherited before 1408 by his underage grandson Markvart the Second. He died in 1418, just two years after coming of age. The castle apparently came under the control of his former guardian Hroch of Maršovic. In 1423 Jan Žižka attempted to capture the castle by treachery, but failed. Later Oldřich of Rožmberka occupied Pořešín. He attached it to the Nové Hrady and had the castle demolished as unnecessary. The estate was then still disputed by Markvart's relative Jan of Křemže. In 1439 Oldřich of Rožmberka captured him and had him executed several years later, yet the disputes continued into the sixties of the fifteenth century. According to archaeological finds, people still lived in the castle palace for some time after it was abandoned.
Initially Pořešín was a castle with a large round tower, which in technical terms is called a bergfrit. Beside it stood a two-room palace in the core. However, the lords of Pořešín wanted a more representative residence. They therefore significantly raised the perimeter wall of the core, so that it concealed a substantial part of the tower. However, the high wall caused structural damage and a buttress had to be built on the north side.
In front of the core lay two outer baileys separated by moats. The second gate was protected by a massive gate tower with a barrel vault portcullis. When it was raised, the so-called wolf pit was revealed. Later the portcullis was replaced by a standard construction.
The castle is now cared for by the association Hrady na Malši. They secure the masonry, conduct archaeological research and have set up a museum in the building in front of the castle with a model of the castle from the time before its demise.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit Pořešína is in the spring or autumn season when the weather is pleasant and photography offers a beautiful light effect. In summer, the temperature on the rocky edge can be challenging.
Parking for Pořešín is not directly near the chateau, but it is possible to find a place near the road leading to the Kaplice. For travelers by public transport it is advisable to use buses or trains to Kaplice and then continue by foot or car to the rest of the route.
When visiting Pořešína take with you durable shoes because the terrain is rocky and uneven. The protective sunglasses are also important if the visit takes place in clear weather and enough drinking.
It offers the best light in the morning or evening. The most beautiful views of Pořešín can be captured from the Lesser side, where it is possible to see chateau ruins in the context of the natural environment.
In the vicinity of Pořešína is located the town of Kaplice, which can be visited in 30 minutes. The Kaplice offers a historic centre with beautiful Gothic Town Hall and other monuments. For families with children it is interesting to explore the surrounding forests that are ideal for short walks or picnics.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Yes. We verified the opening hours or admission on the official website (22. 9. 2026); you will find them in the visitor information on this page. Please double-check with the operator before you travel.
What are the opening hours and admission?
Details verified on the official website (22. 9. 2026) are listed in the visitor information on this page. Official website: http://www.poresin.wbs.cz
Where is the monument?
Location: Pořešín, Jihočeský kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 40991/3-1379).
For kids
Imagine going back to a time when the Czech countries were full of chateaux and chateaux. And in one such memory, Pořešín, I would like to invite you to explore it!
It was like a game where they say, "Go there!" And you say, "What's in there?" And they will say to you, "Something wonderful!" And you say, "What?" And they say, "Pořešín!" And you're like, "What is that?" And they'll explain to you, "This is the ruin of the chateau that stood here four hundred years ago!"
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Nearby
It is located southeast of the village of the same name on the rock edge above the left bank of Malš at an altitude of 525 m.
Accommodation nearby
Trips and activities nearby
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Thematic cruise route from Pořešína
1. Pořešín (ruin) * Type: * Historical landmark * Why is it worth a visit: * Interesting for historians and antiques lovers, the ruins of the chateau Pořešín represents the key element of Slavic construction age. Visit this place to view the vast area overlooking the surrounding countryside and explore the history of the region.
2. Church of St. Gilji * Type: * Religious landmark * Why is it worth visiting: * This church, located near Pořešína, is an example of Gothic architecture and offers a peaceful atmosphere for meditation. Its history and architectural elements are fascinating for visitors interested in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the area.
3. Pořešín pond * Type: * Water monument * Why is it worth visiting: * Pořešín pond is an ideal place for relaxation and natural beauty. Its quiet water and surrounding green garden offer the perfect space for a picnic or just to relax on a bench, which is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
4. Pořešín Region (surrounding forests and trails) * Type: * Nature and recreation area * Why is it worth a visit: * Explore the surrounding forests and trails for beautiful walks or cycling trips. This area offers opportunities to observe wild flora and fauna, which is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful separation from urban life.
This route offers you a comprehensive experience about the history, religion and nature of the Pořešína area.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: In the spring period Pořešín is oddly revived by flowers and new leaves that add a coloured palette to the background of historical walls. Sun rays entering through scattered clouds can create a vibrant atmosphere full of light and shadow, increasing the drama of the ruins. Visitors should be prepared for mild temperatures and possible rain, making durable shoes and clothes with multiple layers a suitable choice. The best time to visit is in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowd increases.
Summer: In the summer Pořešín gets an atmosphere full of heat and life. The sunlight creates dramatic shadows on the wall and background, which can be ideal for photography. Due to the main summer season, a higher number of visitors is expected, so it is recommended to come early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy milder crowds. Hot clothes and sun protection are crucial for comfort during long summer days.
Autumn: In autumn the Pořešín becomes melancholic but attractive atmosphere with coloured leaves and temperate temperatures. Sunshine days can create breathtaking flashes on walls that highlight their historical beauty. Visitors should be prepared for irregular weather and massive wind, so durable clothing is recommended. This time of year offers ideal conditions for a quiet visit with a smaller crowd.
Winter: Winter visit Pořešína offers a completely different view, where the chateau is covered with snow and creates the impression of a romantic myth. Less sun days mean shorter opening times of the sights, so visitors should plan their visit according to information on the web. Warm clothes and protection against cold are necessary for comfort during winter cold days when the atmosphere is quieter and evasive crowds.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
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Sources and literature
Photos: Karel Hudera at Czech Wikipedia / Public domain, rozlišení zvýšeno umělou inteligencí — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
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