Discover Branná through several different themes: Kolštejn Castle and its building history, the rock formations of Pasák, ecclesiastical history and the former pilgrimage site at Mariánský pramen. There is also a brewery tour with tasting and a ski resort. When planning your stay, you can explore historical building phases, geological formations and seasonal activities.
Kolštejn Castle and its building history
Kolštejn Castle was founded by the Wüstenhube family in the early 14th century; the first documented mention of its construction dates from 1301. At the beginning of the 17th century, the Žerotín family and the Lords of Vrbno built the chateau buildings in the middle and lower parts of the castle and transformed the complex into a comfortable Renaissance residence. The Černá věž (Black Tower), a passage tower that has survived to this day, also dates from this building phase. Visitors can see some reconstructed parts of the Kolštejn complex, the ruins of the original Gothic castle and a historical entrance exhibition. Check visiting options before your trip.
Church, Fojtství and Mariánský pramen
The Church of the Archangel Michael adds another chapter of change to the architectural history: it was originally built as a Protestant church under the name Zmrtvýchvstání Krista in 1612–1614, converted to Catholic use in 1743 and rededicated to Saint Michael. Two building phases can also be distinguished at Fojtství: the single-storey building was constructed at the end of the 16th century and extended by one storey about a century later.
Mariánský pramen is the surviving relic of Branná’s former pilgrimage site, also known as Kolštejn. The former pilgrimage church was closed and demolished in 1789, while the spring remained. Mariánský pramen has been restored and is most easily reached by following the path from Branná railway station in the direction of the Banjaluka forester’s lodge. Check the path conditions before your visit.
Pasák: rock formations and nature trail
Designated in 1982, the Pasák geological and geomorphological natural monument covers 2.5 hectares. The rocky ridge below the Polomský potok stream features frost cliffs, isolated rocks, rock overhangs and cryoplanation terraces. Distinctive rock formations at Pasák also include a rock window, a rock mushroom and a rock slab. The prominent Pasák rock tower is associated with several local legends, including the legend of the petrified shepherd. Here, specific geological formations sit alongside stories connected with the place.
The Pasák nature trail is a 12.5 km tourist and recreational route with 14 polythematic stops. It starts in Branná below the railway station. The route can therefore be described by its stated length and number of stops; it offers a different way to explore the area than viewing individual rock formations and hearing local legends.
Brewery tour and ski resort
Kolštejn Minibrewery produces pale and semi-dark lagers as well as seasonal beer specialties. On a tasting accompanied by a guided brewery tour, you can sample all the beers brewed there. This combines the tasting with an insight into the brewery.
Branná ski resort is situated at an altitude of 630 to 750 metres and has three runs suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike. As operating arrangements can change between seasons, check current operations for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Šléglov, Kamenná, Vyšehoří, Postřelmůvek, Bušín, Kopřivná, Ruda Nad Moravou, Bohdíkov
For the overview of the wider area: Šumperk District.
