Houska was originally built as a Gothic castle and later gained its Renaissance appearance. Visitors can see the castle interiors, courtyard and an exceptionally valuable chapel, one of the most important parts of the whole complex. The chapel, with its Gothic wall paintings, is one of the main reasons to visit Houska even if you are not drawn only by mysterious stories.
The best-known legend connects Houska with the so-called gateway to hell, which was said to be hidden beneath the castle chapel. Whether you believe such stories or not, they are inseparable from Houska. They give the castle a special tension and set it apart from other monuments in the area. A trip here combines well with exploring Kokořínsko, sandstone rocks, castles and forest paths in the southern part of Máchův kraj.
