Skalka Castle

Skalka is a historical complex consisting of the ruins of the castle and Baroque castle, located on the edge of the village Vlastislav in the district of Litoměřice, Ústecký kraj. This monument is remarkable by its rich history dating back to the 14th century when a noble castle was founded. After its destruction during the 30-year war, the Baroque castle was built at the foot of the castle in the second half of the 17th century. Today Skalka is protected as a cultural monument and serves as a place for exhibitions of art and history.

The first written mention of the castle dates back to 1357, when its name appeared in the predicate Petra ze Skalky. The Founding House owned Skalka until the beginning of the 15th century. In 1414 the castle was listed as property of Hanus Kaplíra of Sulevic. After that, Jan II. Žlutický z Vřesovic bought it, which settled on it until 1544, when he sold it back to the Chaplers of Sulevic. Since 1578, Skalka was owned by the House of Hrzans of Harasova, who held it until the beginning of the 17th century.

During the Thirty Years' War, the owner of Skalka Zdeslav Hrzán z Harasova tried to keep his property from confiscation, but in 1639 the castle was ravaged by the Swedish invasion. After this disaster, the House of Hrzán decided to build a new residence at the foot of the castle. The Baroque castle, probably designed by Antonio della Portou, was built in the second half of the 17th century. Its architecture is characteristic of Baroque style with two storey building, long pilasters and decorated windows.

After several changes to the owners in the 18th century, the castle went into the hands of the Schönborn family. In the middle of the 19th century the castle was used as an administrative centre for the Dlažkovice estate. After World War II he served as a depository of the State Regional Archive in Litoměřice.

In 2001, Vlastislav became the owner of the castle, which annually organizes exhibitions of art and history. The interesting thing is that Kryštof Maria Schönborn, Archbishop and Cardinal were born in the castle.

Today Skalka is accessible to visitors from spring to autumn. Its historical significance is linked to the rich past and architectural elements that demonstrate the changes that this monument has undergone. Visiting Skalka offers not only a view of history, but also an opportunity to appreciate the art and culture of the Czech Central Mountains.

Skalka is therefore a place full of historical twists and architectural pearls waiting to be discovered by every visitor. Its presence in the village Vlastislav is an important part of the cultural heritage of the region and is worth visiting so that people can learn more about the past and the presence of this fascinating monument.