Štěpánka Lookout tower

Štěpánka, a historical lookout tower located at the top of the Star in the western Giant Mountains, is one of the oldest of its kind in the Giant Mountains and Jizera Mountains. The construction was started by Prince Kamil Rohan in 1847 and named after Archduke Stephen, who visited the site during the construction of the imperial road. Remarkable with its neo-gothic architecture and views of surrounding mountain tracks, Štěpánka attracts visitors from around the world.

The history of the lookout tower dates back to 1847, when Prince Rohan began construction. After visiting Archduke Stephen, she was named "Stephanshöhe." The original intention to complete the construction was not implemented because Prince Rohan had lost interest in another benefactor. In 1888, the Jizerskohorsky Association took an unfinished perspective and, according to the design by Professor Brausewettera of Liberec, completed it in 1892 when it was opened to the public.

The architecture of Štěpánka is characteristic of the neo-gothic style. The building connects a stone and brick base with a fully-edged observation superstructure which forms an octagonal plan on all floors. The first observation platform is located at a height of approximately 4 metres above the terrain, while the main observation platform under the roof is about 20 metres high. The total height of the lookout on top of the roof is approximately 24 metres.

The ownership and management of Štěpánka have undergone several changes. After the beginning of the construction by Prince Rohan in 1847, it was taken over by the Jizerskohorsky Association in 1888 and completed in 1892. During World War II, a piety place with a stone cross was built under the lookout to remind of fallen soldiers wehrmacht and SS. This Nazi symbol was removed by Czech inhabitants in 1945.

Key events include not only the completion of the construction in 1892, but also the destruction of the stone cross in 1945. In 2011, the cross was restored and later members of the Jizeran Association were reinstalled. However, on 25 March 2023, someone pulled the cross off the pedestal, which led to its re-breaking.

Today Štěpánka is open to the public and offers a nice view of the Jizera Mountains, Giant Mountains, Zvičina, Male, Bezdez, Ralsko and Lusatian Mountains. Its history and architecture make it not only a tourist attraction, but also an important cultural monument. Visiting Štěpánky offers an opportunity to explore rich history and beautiful landscape from one of the oldest views in the region.

Štěpánka is more than just a tourist attraction; It's a testament to historical events, architectural art and cultural heritage. Its views and history attract visitors from all over the world who want to experience the beauty of Giant Mountains and Jizera Mountains from a unique perspective. Visiting Štěpánka is an opportunity to appreciate not only its historical value, but also a beautiful view of the surrounding mountain tracks.