Rabí Castle

Rabí, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Rabí Castle is a magnificent medieval castle ruin located in the Plzeň Region of the Czech Republic.

It is the largest castle in the country by area and was built to protect important trade routes and oversee the gold-bearing Otava River valley. The castle's origins date back to the 13th or early 14th century, with its first written mention appearing in 1380. The castle played a significant role during the Hussite Wars and is especially famous because the Czech military leader Jan Žižka lost his second eye during a siege there in 1421.

Over time, Rabí was expanded into one of the strongest fortresses in Bohemia, featuring massive walls, towers, and advanced defensive structures. After suffering decline, fire, and centuries of abandonment, the castle was preserved as a historic monument. Today, it is a national cultural monument and one of the Czech Republic’s most impressive castle ruins, attracting visitors with its fascinating history, extensive fortifications, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.