Panská skála is a fascinating natural phenomenon in the northern Czech Republic, consisting of tall pentagonal or hexagonal basalt columns. The shapes are so precise that one could almost believe that this is man-made, but this creation came about through volcanic activity many millions of years ago.
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Panská skála
Panská skála is an exciting attraction that tells the story of our geological history. The name can be translated as 'the Lord's Rock', but the rock formation has sometimes also been called 'Varhany', which in Czech means organ.
Panská skála is located near the town of Kamenický Šenov in the Liberec region, in northern Bohemia. This is just over 10 miles north of Prague.
What is Panská skála?
Panská skála is a natural phenomenon created by volcanic activity during the Tertiary period, i.e. 65.5-2.6 million years ago. According to several sources, this particular natural phenomenon occurred around 30 million years ago.
The formation consists of pentagonal and hexagonal systematically arranged basalt columns with a diameter of between 20 and 40 centimetres. Similar structures are found in other parts of the world, including at Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland and Kirkjugólf in Iceland.
The rock formation is about 30 metres high, and the top is 597 metres above sea level. Already in the late 19th century, efforts were made to protect the site and in 1914 the quarry here closed, although unfortunately it reopened during the war. In 1953, the cliff was declared a natural monument, and today it is a popular destination for tourists.
Visiting Panská skála
The easiest way to get to Panská skála is by car. Driving from Prague takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Liberec, the car journey takes about 40 minutes. There is a car park right next to the site and information signs about the various hiking trails in the area. A small installation of chandeliers from different eras has also been set up here.
Walking from the car park to Panská skála is a very short little walk. It is also easy to get around the rock formation, to see it from different angles.
Up to the top
If you have no problem walking, you can reach the top without much difficulty. Along the way you can be fascinated by these unique rock formations.
Once at the top, there is a view down to the rock formation, but also of the surrounding landscape.
The Czech landscape is green and lush, with high volcanic mountain peaks rising all around.
More to see in the neighbourhood
Right next to Pánska Skála is Novy Bor, where there is a lot to discover for those who love glass and glass art. In general, there is a lot to discover in the Crystal Valley and places like Liberec and Jablonec Nad Nisou. The Bohemian Paradise area also offers beautiful nature. In addition, a visit to Litoměřice can be enjoyable.
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Have you heard of Panská Skála?
Have you heard about Panská Skála before, or maybe you have even visited it? Do you know of any place in the world with similar natural phenomena?
Facts about Panská skála
- Country: Czech Republic
- Area: Bohemia (Bohemia)
- Region: Liberec (Liberecky kraj)
- Location: Near Kamenický Šenov, just over 10 miles north of Prague.
- Name: Panská Skála means "Lord's Rock" and can be called Mansion Rock or Manor Rock in English. The rock can also be called Varhany (organ) in Czech, due to its shape.
- Read more: You can find more information at the region's website.
Elisabeth says:
An exciting novelty. Nature can really surprise!
03 October 2021 - 8:10
Helena says:
That's right! This place is very special, just like the similar one in Northern Ireland that we also visited.
03 October 2021 - 8:30
Lisa says:
No never heard of but sounds tempting to visit. I am curious about the Czech Republic which we have seen far too little of. Interesting to follow your journey.
03 October 2021 - 10:10
Helena says:
An interesting and nice country to travel in really!!! 🙂
04 October 2021 - 18:24
Ladies Abroad says:
Soooo beautiful and fascinating. I was in a similar place in Georgia, now I feel like I need to go here.
03 October 2021 - 10:23
Helena says:
Is it true? How interesting!
04 October 2021 - 18:24
bmlarstravellingblog says:
We have only seen these phenomena in pictures from Ireland and Iceland, really fascinating scenery!
03 October 2021 - 17:11
Helena says:
Isn't it fascinating! Nature is special and surprising!!!
04 October 2021 - 18:25
BP says:
They were powerful formations! Here it is important to have good balance if you want to get to the top. Understand that the area is also called an organ, because the formation actually looks like an organ.
03 October 2021 - 17:58
Helena says:
I agree, the organ name is good, the mountain really reminds me of such a musical instrument!!!
04 October 2021 - 18:26
Lena - good for the soul says:
Very fascinating! Absolutely incredible what nature can create! Almost hard to believe that it is natural. Looks like a nice destination.
Hug Lena
27 December 2021 - 17:49