The castle was originally commissioned under the name Karlskrone, meaning 'Charles' Crown', to assert royal power over the region.
The ground plan follows a unique 'dual-tower' layout, which was unconventional for Bohemian royal castles of the mid-14th century.
The location on the Radyně hill was selected because it sits on a prominent strategic ridge overlooking the older administrative center of Plzeň.
The castle experienced significant abandonment and degradation following a fire in the 16th century, after which it was never fully restored.
Geological surveys of the hill have revealed traces of prehistoric settlement, suggesting the site was strategically important long before the castle's construction.
Radyně Castle is a 14th-century royal castle ruins perched atop a 567-meter-high hill near Starý Plzenec. Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV around 1356, the structure was originally named Karlskrone. It features two preserved residential towers and significant curtain wall remnants. The site functions as a regional heritage destination offering panoramic views of the Pilsen Basin. Visitors can access interior exhibition spaces that detail the castle's historical construction and architectural evolution. The ruins serve as an observation point, with one tower adapted to provide elevated sightlines of the surrounding landscape. The site is a registered cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
The viewing platform at the top of the main residential tower.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the castle grounds are uneven and gravel-covered.
Bring binoculars for the observation tower, which offers clear views of the distant Bohemian Forest on sunny days.
Check the official website for scheduled community events or theatrical performances held within the ruins.
Attempting to climb or scale the unrestored masonry walls, as they are fragile and hazardous.
Closed on Mondays throughout the season; fully closed to the public during the winter months.
