The original name 'Goldenstein' derives from the German 'Gold' and 'Stein', reflecting the area's historical association with precious metal prospecting.
The castle foundations contain evidence of a 14th-century defensive system designed to guard a strategic trade route through the mountains.
During the 17th century, the castle was besieged and partially damaged during the Thirty Years' War.
The village of Branná was formerly a prominent mining town known for iron ore extraction in the surrounding hills.
The complex features a well-preserved Renaissance sgraffito facade on the chateau portion.
Branná, historically known as Kolštejn, is a village in the Jeseníky Mountains featuring a significant castle-chateau complex dating back to the 14th century. The site consists of the ruins of the original Gothic castle and a later Renaissance-style chateau. It is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the village and the Branná River valley. The castle was historically linked to the House of Tunkl, who significantly modified the structure. Today, parts of the chateau complex serve as a wellness hotel and restaurant. The site has undergone various restorations to stabilize the original masonry of the upper castle remains. It serves as a central historical reference point for the surrounding village, which is itself protected as a town monument zone.
From the trail leading up from the village square, providing a profile view of both the Renaissance chateau and the Gothic castle ruins.
Combine your visit with a walk through the Branná village center to see the preserved burgher houses.
Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to explore the ruins of the upper castle, as the terrain is uneven and rocky.
Check the local events calendar, as the courtyard occasionally hosts historical reenactments or seasonal markets.
Do not attempt to climb the unrestored ruin walls, as they are fragile and pose safety risks.
The ruins are generally accessible, but interior tours of the chateau hotel areas are subject to private management schedules.
