Skalní hrad – Kozlov (Chlum)

Olešnice, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Skalní hrad – Kozlov, also known as Chlum, is the remains of a medieval rock castle located on Kozlov Hill near Olešnice in the Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) region of the Czech Republic.

Archaeological evidence indicates that the castle was founded in the late 13th or early 14th century and was associated with the noble Valdštejn family. Unlike traditional stone castles, Kozlov was largely built from wood and integrated into the natural sandstone rock formations. Today, visitors can still see rock-cut chambers, storage spaces, traces of defensive moats, stairways, and other features carved directly into the stone.

The castle was abandoned by the second half of the 14th century after becoming part of the larger Valdštejn estate, and only fragmentary remains survive. Despite its ruinous state, it is protected as a cultural monument and offers valuable insight into medieval fortifications adapted to rocky terrain. The site is freely accessible and is popular with hikers thanks to its scenic location, nearby viewpoints, and views over the surrounding countryside of the Bohemian Paradise.