Rabštejn nad Střelou

Rabštejn nad Střelou is an exceptionally compact historic townlet on a spur above the Střela River, northeast of Manětín. Although it is now administratively part of Manětín, it has kept a strongly urban character, old lanes, monuments concentrated in a small area and the reputation of one of the smallest historic towns in Czechia.

Rabštejn lies above the right bank of the Střela, on a spur enclosed by steep slopes. The fortified settlement below the castle was promoted to a town in 1337, and in the 20th century, because of its very small population, it began to be described as the smallest town in Europe. The history of the place is older, however: Rabštejn is documented as early as the 13th century, and the town's origins are linked to a Gothic castle above a regional route.

Monuments in a Small Area

Rabštejn is best explored slowly and on foot. In and around the historic centre you will find the remains of the Gothic castle, a Baroque chateau, a Servite monastery, the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows, the old stone bridge over the Střela, a Jewish cemetery, timbered and half-timbered houses, and small viewpoints into the valley. The urban conservation zone was declared in 1992.

After the Second World War and the expulsion of the German-speaking population, Rabštejn lost many residents and services. Since the beginning of the 21st century, however, it has been coming back to life through tourism. There is a museum, an information centre with a cafe in the former gendarmerie station, and during the season further places and events open up.

Střela Valley

Rabštejn is more than a cluster of buildings. Its setting in the landscape is just as important. The Střela valley is deep, wooded and romantic, with walking routes and a nature trail. The historic town therefore works well as a half-day trip: a visit to the monuments can be combined with a walk down to the river, across the stone bridge and further into the Horní Střela Nature Park.

Practical Information

The historic core is freely accessible year-round, but individual buildings have their own seasonal opening times. Parking is limited, and during events it is worth checking current information on the local website. Allow at least 1 to 2 hours for the historic centre, the bridge and a short section of the valley.

Contacts and How to Get There

• Official website: rabstejnnadstrelou.cz
• Museum: muzeumrabstejn.cz
• Address: Rabštejn nad Střelou, 331 62 Manětín
• GPS: 50.042524, 13.291864
• Recommendation: use the walking routes in the Střela valley and check the current opening regime of the chateau, museum and events before travelling