Pirkštejn Castle

Pirkštejn Castle is located in the town of Rataje nad Sázavou in the Czech Republic. It was established during the medieval period by the Bohemian nobility and formed an important part of the region’s defensive network.

Construction of Pirkštejn began in the early 14th century, founded by Jindřich of Lipé, who owned the nearby town of Rataje nad Sázavou. He intended the castle to serve both as a stronghold and the main residence connected with the settlement. The earliest written record dates back to 1346, when Pirkštejn was mentioned alongside the upper castle in Rataje. Initially, it belonged to the Lords of Lipé, a prominent noble family of the time.

By the middle of the 14th century, ownership shifted to the Lords of Pirkštejn, who took their name from their ancestral stronghold, Sloup Castle. Among the most notable members of this family was Hynce Ptáček of Pirkštejn, a political figure active in the period after the Hussite Wars. He passed away in 1444 and was laid to rest in Rataje’s Church of St. Matthew, reflecting his local importance.

Pirkštejn remained the primary seat of regional power well into the 16th century. During this period, the Malešice family transformed the upper castle nearby into a Renaissance-style chateau, signaling a shift in residential preferences. Ownership changed hands several times, including transfers to the Švamberk family and Viktorín of Poděbrady. Although the main residence moved away, Pirkštejn was kept in use.

The castle experienced damage during the peasant uprising of 1627, after which it ceased to function as a military fortress. In the early 18th century, specifically between 1713 and 1724, the castle complex was adapted for ecclesiastical use, becoming a parish house complete with a bell tower. Since 1958, the site has been protected by the Czech Republic as a cultural monument. It remains church property and, since 2015, has been leased to a private individual. The castle has also found a place in culture, inspiring literary works and video games.