Sovinec, one of the most picturesque North Moravian castles, is located at the southern edge of the Nízký Jeseník massive (Lower Ash Mountains), atop a rocky ledge overlooking a deep valley. Its name (in German Eulenberg) derives from owl and could be translated as Owlhill

The fortress was founded in the first half of 14th century and remained in Czech hands until late 16th century when the property rights passed to the Teutonic Knights Order (also known as German Knights). It met its most dramatic moments in 17th century, during the Thirty Years War. In 1626 governor Wembofsky, deeming it indefensible, handed it over to Danish troops without a fight. As a consequence of the episode, the local German Knights commander decided to convert it into a modern fortification with massive bastions. The restructured fortress was soon subject to a severe test. On 16th of September, 1643, Svedish troops counting 8000 men and 82 cannons under the command of Lennart Tortensson besieged the fortress and after a strenuous fight lasting until 7th of October won a honorable capitulation of its contingent. After recovering the possession of the fortress (in 1650), the German Knights used it until 18th century. It burned out twice and is still in reconstruction, though parts are accessible to visitors and exploited for local cultural activities.

July 27, 2006, North Moravia, Czech Republic.