Volfštejn

Volfštejn is a ruined medieval castle tucked into the woods less than 2 kilometers southwest of Černošín, in the Tachov District of the Plzeň Region. Counted among the oldest castles in the Tachovsko area, it's a quiet, forested destination that rewards visitors with a genuinely impressive surviving tower and none of the crowds you'd find at the region's better-known sights.

When was Volfštejn built and who lived there?

The castle was founded in the first half of the 13th century as the seat of the lords of Volfštejn. The earliest written record dates to 1316, when the estate belonged to Beneda of Volfštejn. His family line held the castle continuously until 1460, when they relocated to the nearby castle of Třebel. A decade later, in 1470, Volfštejn lost its strategic importance during fighting between the Unity of the Green Mountain and the forces of King George of Poděbrady, after which it was gradually abandoned and never rebuilt.

What survives among the ruins today?

The dominant feature is a massive 22-meter-tall cylindrical stone tower standing in the northwestern part of the site, with a Romanesque arched entrance portal set a striking 8 meters above ground level — a deliberate defensive measure that made the tower far harder to storm. In the southeastern part of the grounds, remains of the so-called "Old Castle" building are still visible, and the palace walls survive to near-full height on three sides. The oval castle area was enclosed by a perimeter wall, with a deep moat cut directly into the bedrock providing additional protection. Architecturally, Volfštejn belongs to the category of small castles built according to the so-called Saxon-Hessian principle. Since 1958, the ruins have been protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic.

How do you get to the castle?

A yellow-marked hiking trail leads to Volfštejn from the village of Černošín. The walk through the forest typically takes around half an hour each way and doesn't require any special hiking gear or fitness level, making it an accessible outing for families and casual walkers alike.

Is it worth combining with other sights?

The Černošín and Tachovsko area is dotted with similarly compact castle ruins, so Volfštejn often features in day trips that string together several nearby fortresses. That said, its well-preserved tower and clear layout make it a rewarding stop in its own right, even as a standalone destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Volfštejn Castle? It was founded in the first half of the 13th century, making it one of the oldest castles in the Tachovsko region.

Why did the castle fall into ruin? It lost its significance in 1470 during fighting between the Unity of the Green Mountain and King George of Poděbrady's forces, after its owners had already relocated to nearby Třebel castle in 1460.

What's the most distinctive feature of the ruins? A 22-meter cylindrical tower with a Romanesque entrance portal set high above ground level.

How do you reach the castle on foot? A yellow-marked trail from Černošín leads to the ruins, with the walk taking about half an hour.

Is the castle a protected monument? Yes, the ruins of Volfštejn have been protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic since 1958.