Zubstejn Castle

Zubstejn Castle - Hrad Zubštejn, 593 01 Bystrice nad Pernstejnem, Vysocina Region, Czech Republic.

Zubštejn Castle was originally named Kámen (Latin: *Lapis*); it was later renamed Zubrštejn, and eventually became known as Zubštejn.
The first written record of the castle dates back to 1344; it was likely built in the Gothic style by the Lords of Pernštejn (originally of Medlov) to serve as the seat of a distinct branch of the family. Some sources even suggest the castle dates back to the 13th century—which would make it one of the oldest castles in Moravia—though this theory has unfortunately not been confirmed. The castle occupied a highly significant strategic position, guarding the Svratka River, which served as the main axis of colonization in the area. Another of its functions was to protect the mining operations located in the Svratka River valley. Throughout its history, the castle underwent numerous renovations. The original construction phase encompassed the castle core and an entrance tower, which acted as a defensive shield facing the direction of potential attack. A tower-like palace stood at the opposite end of the complex.
In 1358, the castle passed into the hands of Margrave John Henry and was renamed Zubštejn. Renovations carried out around this time likely resulted in the creation of a second palace featuring two preserved vaulted stories; these remain the castle's most prominent surviving structures today. Other modifications included the construction of masonry bridgeheads and intermediate bridge structures, designed to secure the bridges spanning the moats and leading into the castle core.
Following the death of John Henry’s son, Jobst, the castle became a fief and was frequently mortgaged due to a lack of funds. From 1446, it was once again held by the Pernštejn family, who utilized it and maintained its furnishings and fortifications. However, it gradually lost its importance from the 16th century onwards; in 1547, and finally in 1596, it was recorded as a "deserted castle."

Source: www.korunavysociny.cz/turisticke-cile/toulky-historii/hrady-zamky-zriceniny/1709-zricenina-hradu-zubstejn