Perched on a lonely hilltop, near Lake Máchovo, nestled deep within the forests north of Prague, lies Houska Castle. Is it the largest castle? No. Is it the most beautiful castle? Also, No. So what gives? Houska is different. It’s an early gothic castle that had been rebuilt sometime during the Renaissance. Now, I know what you're thinking—castles in Europe? I mean, that’s like finding a Wal-Mart in middle America. Daryl really has lost it this time...
But it’s not its cool architectural history that we’re interested in here today, folks. But while I’m talking about architecture, Houska Castle seems to have been designed as a fortress against something dark, something not entirely of this world. See, the castles defenses all appear to be, backwards.. Rather than fortification against the outside world, this castle’s defenses all point in toward the main center courtyard– but why?
Legend has it that the site where Houska now stands wasn’t chosen for its strategic advantage or its scenic views. No, it was built over a hole. But not just any hole—a yawning chasm that locals believed was a direct portal to Hell. Yes, you heard that right. Hell, with a capital H-E-double hockey sticks.
The story goes that this pit was so deep no one could see the bottom. Dark, foreboding fumes rose from its depths, and those brave—or perhaps foolish—enough to venture near reported hearing the wails of damned souls. Strange creatures, half-human, half-beast, that could crawl out under the cover of night. So natch, they covered it up.
Even now, visitors describe an oppressive atmosphere, with some even fainting or falling ill upon entering the courtyard. Paranormal investigators have flocked to the site, eager to uncover its secrets, but the castle remains tight-lipped, even against the charms of Americans clad in neo-gothic studded outfits.
So, is Houska Castle just another strange quirky part of the past, or is it truly a gateway to Hell? The truth might be stranger than any story, but one thing’s for sure: we’re going to try to find out on today’s episode of Idiopathic.. Refs and Resources
