Discover Blatce: Church, Log House and Houska Castle
Accommodation in Blatce
Blatce offers two very different cultural landmarks: the fragments of the Church of the Holy Trinity and a longitudinal log house with decorative carpentry. Houska Castle is another destination to visit from Blatce—a Renaissance chateau with elements of a Gothic castle and its own exhibitions and events program.
Cultural Landmarks in Blatce
The ruins of the Church of the Holy Trinity in Blatce preserve fragments of the ashlar masonry of a church founded in 1600. After it was demolished in 1830, the fragments were scattered around the area. The founding, demolition and scattered pieces of masonry are thus part of a single story about the building.
Another local architectural landmark is the longitudinal log house in Blatce. Its decorative carpentry is especially prominent on the long porch and carved supporting structure. The house probably dates from the 19th century. Unlike the stone church ruins, the focus here is on the craftsmanship of the wood.
Houska Castle: Architectural History and Culture
Accessible from Blatce, Houska Castle is a Renaissance chateau with elements of a Gothic castle. The original Gothic castle chapel contains wall paintings dating from the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries. Different periods therefore come together at the castle: the Renaissance character of the chateau and a Gothic chapel with medieval paintings.
A historical turning point came in 1999, when the castle was opened to the general public for the first time in its long history. Houska offers permanent and seasonal exhibitions. Its cultural events program includes fairs, fencing, dances, crafts, singing and music. Since the program may change and events are seasonal, it is best to check the specific dates before your trip. When planning your visit, note that the two main attractions differ in timing: the Gothic chapel and its medieval wall paintings are part of the castle’s architectural history, while seasonal exhibitions and cultural events depend on the current program. Visitors primarily interested in the paintings will have different priorities from those coming for the fairs, dances or music.
Dantovo Peklo is outside the main tour route and is visited separately. Check again before your visit to see if seasonal access is available.
Getting There and Choosing Accommodation
Two roads lead to Houska Castle: one from Blatce or TuboĹľ, and another from Kruh. It is about 700 metres from the parking lot to the castle, followed by a pleasant ten-minute walk to the castle gate. Allow time for the walk and check the parking situation before your trip.
If a particular event at the castle is important to you, check its date before finalising your travel plans.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Bohatice U Zákup, Krompach V Cechách, ProvodĂn, Hamr Na JezeĹ™e, HornĂ Police, StruĹľnice, Arnultovice, SluneÄŤná.
Return to the main travel overview: ÄŚeská LĂpa District.
