Šaunštejn / Schauenstein Castle

Jetřichovice, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Šaunštejn, also known as Schauenstein Castle, is a medieval rock castle ruin located near Jetřichovice in the Bohemian Switzerland region of northern Czechia.

Built in the 14th century by the Berka of Dubá family, it was strategically positioned on a sandstone rock formation to protect an important trade route connecting Bohemia with Lusatia. During the 15th century, the castle was used by its owners as a military stronghold and was repeatedly besieged. It eventually lost its importance, was abandoned, and fell into ruin by the early 16th century.

Today, only carved rock chambers, foundations, a cistern, and other remnants of the original fortress remain. The site is now a popular destination within Bohemian Switzerland National Park, reached by hiking trails and wooden stairways. Visitors are rewarded with impressive views of the surrounding forests, sandstone formations, and distant hills, making Šaunštejn one of the region’s most scenic historical landmarks.