Striking basalt mountain with a viewpoint and popular hiking destination in Bohemian Switzerland.
In the Czech Republic, Studenec (German: Kaltenberg) is a 737-metre-high peak in the western Lusatian Mountains, near Česká Kamenice. There is a freely accessible steel observation tower on the summit, which offers a view of the surrounding forest and mountain landscapes.
A wooden viewing platform was built here as early as 1854, but was removed in 1865 due to its condition. The current tower was built in 1888 as a steel structure and is considered one of the oldest iron observation towers in the country.
The facility was extensively renovated between 2007 and 2009. Since its reopening in 2009, the tower has once again become a popular destination for hikers.
Place of inspiration for Caspar David FriedrichCaspar David Friedrich was fascinated by the striking elevations of Bohemian Switzerland. He had often seen the landmarks from afar. In May 1808, he set off to finally draw some of them up close. During the hike, which lasted several days, he produced an interesting sketch showing Rosenberg and Kaltenberg from various distances. Immediately after his return, he processed his impressions in the painting "Bohemian Landscape". Both elevations also make prominent appearances in later works.
