Hrad Hartenberg

Location: Vildštejn, 351 34 Skalná · Karlovy Vary Region

Category: medieval ruin

The ruins of Hartenberg Castle (Hřebeny) are located near the village of Skalná (formerly Wildstein) in the Karlovy Vary Region. The castle was built in the 13th century and was one of the largest castles in Bohemia. The romantic ruin set in the forests of the Slavkov Forest is a popular hiking destination. Remains of massive walls, towers, and moats have been preserved. Access is via a marked hiking trail from Vildštejn or Skalná. Suitable for trips with a historical and natural science theme.

Why visit this place?

• J. W. Goethe visited the castle several times as a friend of its owner, Count Josef Auersperg, and celebrated his 72nd birthday here in 1821.
• On 8 June 1985 the building was deliberately burnt out and almost levelled; since 2000 more than 1000 volunteers from 76 countries have worked on its restoration.
• Admission is free, which helps when the class budget is tight.
• Allow roughly an hour and a half; the programme is aimed at lower primary, upper primary and secondary students.
• There are 30 more tips within 25 km, enough to build a full-day trip.
• An outdoor trip that, according to our records, runs all year round.

Verified against: hartenberg.cz, cs.wikipedia.org

Practical information

• Opening hours: freely accessible year-round
• Typical visit: 90 min
• Admission: free
• Suitable for: primary (6–10), lower secondary (10–15), secondary (15+)

For schools

A free-admission tour of the extensive ruins of a medieval castle in the natural setting of the Slavkov Forest.

Official website: https://www.hartenberg.cz/

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