Since ancient times, the territory of the Czech Republic has been surrounded by strong and rather warlike states, which is why the Czechs were forced to build defense structures in order to protect their country from enemy invasion. The construction of fortifications began in the 13th century during the reign of the Přemyslids. And the construction of fortresses reached its peak under Charles IV, namely in the middle of the 14th century.
Defense and guard fortresses, strict in their architectural implementation, were built on rocks and hills surrounded by water. The fortifications of these castles were impregnable, and the thickness of the walls in some buildings reached six meters. High donjon towers made it possible to completely control the surrounding area. At the same time, the first luxurious royal castles began to be built in the Czech Republic, fully corresponding to the greatness of their owners. These castles were a kind of symbol of power and wealth.
The castles of the Czech Republic are very different from each other not only in their historical significance, but also in their architectural style and direction.
Currently, more than two thousand castles have survived in the Czech Republic. The history of many of them is directly connected with the famous and very rich aristocratic family - the Sternbergs. The gates of such castles as Krumlov, Hluboka, Orlik and Sternberg are decorated with their family coat of arms. Representatives of this aristocratic family still live in Sternberg Castle, and sometimes even conduct excursions themselves.
Castles of the Czech Republic are a cultural and historical heritage of the country.
The old walls of medieval castles in the Czech Republic have absorbed ancient spells and magical sounds of the violin, the ringing of knightly armor and many legends. It seems that if you close your eyes for a minute, you will be transported to the Middle Ages, you will see Countess Ernestine, née Schwarzenberg, Karl Philip, Alexander the First, you will hear ancient spells and touch the history of the Czech Republic.
Naturally, as it should be, every Czech castle has its own legend. In one there are mysterious ghosts, in the other countless treasures are hidden, in the basements of the third the alchemist and great magician Edward Kelly languishes. Many castles house truly unique collections and display interesting exhibitions. For example, in Orlik Castle, tourists can see a wonderful collection of hunting rifles. The collection includes unique guns: ladies' and men's, inlaid with mother-of-pearl and ivory.
Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle will amaze even the most sophisticated tourist with its rich 19th-century interiors. The Konopiste hunting castle, owned by Archduke Ferdinand, will interest hunting enthusiasts, and the Karlstejn castle will not leave historians indifferent.
Tourist routes to the castles of the Czech Republic are not just about visiting historical sights. These include knightly tournaments, visits to medieval fairs, walks through palace galleries, and participation in hunting. These are exciting stories about mysterious ghosts and legends about beautiful ladies. These are the richest collections of beautiful paintings, the finest porcelain, and ancient volumes.
They impress even tourists who do not understand architectural styles. Castles of the Czech Republic (2.5 thousand in total) are historical relics and medieval values of the country. They are all completely different and were built for different purposes.
Why were castles built?
Castles in the Czech Republic began to be built en masse back in the 13th century, when such structures were erected solely for the purpose of protecting and strengthening the territory and residential premises from the invasion of enemies. Therefore, the castles built during these years represent impregnable fortresses with high walls, surrounded by a deep moat with water. Often such structures were erected on a cliff. Of course, only the nobility and wealthy nobility lived in them.
Already in the 14th century, during the reign of Charles IV, the Czech Republic became a powerful power with high defensive capabilities. Later castles in the Czech Republic were built already in the Middle Ages and looked like luxurious estates where kings and nobles lived and relaxed in nature.
This material shows the most famous and colorful Castles of the Czech Republic (photos and short description see below).
Karlštejn Castle
Karlštejn is the most popular castle among visiting tourists and the Czechs themselves. It occupies an exceptional position, because it was built specifically for storing royal treasures. It was erected according to the instructions Czech king and the Roman Emperor Charles 4 in order to house in it collections of holy relics and regalia necessary for the coronation.
Karlštejn Castle (Czech Republic) is located 50 km from Prague, on high mountain. The towering towers and castle buildings enchant with their grandeur, and the collection of paintings by the artist Theodoric, located in the Chapel of St. Cross, brings all visitors into complete delight.
According to ancient legends, the castle is inhabited by the ghost of a blind musician who wanders the corridors at night or plays the lute. This musician and his dog died when enemies wanted to poison the Prince of Brunschwitz, who had arrived in Karlstejn. The prince gave his glass of poison to the musician, but his devoted dog, sensing the poison, drank the poisoned wine and died. The musician died a few days later from grief.
Czech Sternberg
The literal translation of the name from German is “Star on the Mountain.” This castle (built back in 1240) is a unique example of a defensive structure, protected by steep slopes and surrounded by a moat. Its owners - the Sternberg family - lived here since the 13th century. to the mid-20th century, and then returned to it in 1992.
Sternberg Castle in the Czech Republic was originally built in the Gothic style, then, in the 15-16th centuries, rebuilt in the late Gothic style, and in the 17th century. a part was completed in the early Baroque style. The entire complex is combined into one large building. The interiors and portraits of the owners that have survived to this day, collections from the collection of works of art from the time of the 30 Years' War, and a library with ancient tomes make an indelible impression on all visitors.
Loket Castle
Loket is an impregnable castle-fortress in Bohemia, which has gone through a historical path from a border structure to the hunting residence of the king, and then to the terrible prison dungeons. Loket Castle in the Czech Republic, while maintaining the ominous aura of an underground prison inside, externally gives the impression of grandeur and freedom.
Located near Karlovy Vary, the structure consists of 9 parts, each of which is a journey to a certain historical era:
- the building of the margraves - a fortress to protect trade;
- the Baroque cathedral and wedding hall convey the romance of the Middle Ages;
- scary, dark underground casemates tell the prison history of the castle.
There are many legends in this area about dragons, gnomes, and ghosts of cruel princes who have lived here for more than 8 centuries.
Orlik Castle
Orlik is a Gothic building located on a cliff and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the country. Translated, its name means “Eagle’s Nest”.
Orlik Castle (Czech Republic) is located 80 km from Prague. There are many legends associated with it that tell about its origin. One of the stories tells about the leader of the robbers, who built a fortress-castle in honor of his stolen son, who was found on this rock (in an eagle's nest).
According to historians, Orlik was built in the 13th century, during the reign of King Přemysl Otakar II, to protect a ford across the nearby Vltava River. At first it was a small one-story fortress, then, in the 14th century, an observation tower was added to the west, and a chapel and a hunting hall to the south. The fortress itself was surrounded by a high stone wall. The interior decoration is made in the Gothic style.
In 1508 there was a huge fire in the castle, and in 1515 it was bought by Kr. Švamberk, who rebuilt the fortress in the Renaissance style. Then, in the 17th century, the castle was destroyed during military operations and was revived in the Empire style. Later, architectural reconstructions continued and ended only in the 19th century, when the architect B. Gruber carried out reconstruction, resorting to the neo-Gothic style. This is how today's visitors see the object.
After the water level in the river increased, Orlik Castle “sank” from the cliff almost into the water and is now located on the banks of the Vltava.
The interiors, weapons and art collections are almost as rich and beautiful as those in the Louvre.
Also in the castle are:
- rich library (18 thousand editions of ancient books);
- gallery of portraits of the Schwarzenberg family;
- the famous Teskov Hall, where the works of wood carving master J. Teska are exhibited, completely restored.
One of the descendants of the Schwarzenberg family still lives in the castle, who graciously allows tourists to visit his home.
Hluboka nad Vltavou Castle
This castle is known for its frequent change of owners. Located in the town of the same name in the south of the state, built in the 13th century. Owners changed for various reasons: executions, sale of estates for debts or political intrigues. Each new owner completed the construction of the castle according to his own architectural tastes: at first the building was built in the Gothic style, then it acquired Renaissance features, then the style was changed to Baroque. At the same time, the winery buildings, beer brewing plant and other buildings were completed.
In the middle of the 18th century. Hluboka Castle (Czech Republic) was acquired by the Schwarzenberg family, which by that time owned most of the territory of the state. In the 19th century the building was again rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style by the architect Fr. Berom (Austria) following the example of Windsor Castle.
The main building has 140 rooms, each unique and inimitable in its own way:
- dining room (for 72 people) - made in oriental style and decorated with a carpet with Buddhist symbols;
- in the master bedroom there is a collection of “Madonnas” and a bed inlaid with gold;
- the kitchen is equipped with technical “new items”: running water with hot water, a potato peeler, spits (rotating independently), a huge fireplace, elevators for serving dishes to the hall;
- the library (12 thousand books) also has a collection of faience plates from Holland;
- a huge weapons collection, furniture and a collection of antique dishes.
On the territory of the castle there is a real English park: with beautiful ponds and rare species of plants and trees, surrounded by hunting grounds.
Telc Castle
This castle is the most fabulous and cozy (according to surveys conducted by the Czech National Committee “The Most Popular Castles in the Czech Republic”). It is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
Telč Castle was rebuilt in the 16th century and has retained its beautiful appearance thanks to its owners. The unique interior with features of Italian art has been used in many historical Czech films and fairy tales. Since 1992, it has become a UNESCO heritage site.
Telc is practically a museum city, every building in which is an architectural monument. Located near Prague, 2.5 hours away by bus. Numerous folklore festivals are held here, and an exhibition of antique toys is open.
Perštejn Castle
The most beautiful and mysterious castle (located near Brno) rises above the Svratka River, surrounded by forested hills. This is a powerful fortified defensive medieval structure located on an island and has many interesting and beautiful sights:
- tower with the conspirators' hall with magnificent mosaics and the knights' hall;
- tower "Varvarushka";
- Horned Tower with balconies and machicolations in the corners;
- triangular palace and chapel.
The castle was founded in 1285 by Stefan, the founder of the Perstein family, and has been preserved almost in its original form, which is why it is often used for filming knightly films and fairy tales. It combines many architectural styles: from early Gothic to classicism.
One of the famous White Ladies “lives” in the castle - the ghost of the maiden Adleta, whose appearance in white clothes predicts the birth of a child, and in black ones - death.
Svoyanov Castle
The Gothic castle and even now the palace complex was founded in 1265 by King Přemysl Otakar II to protect the road leading to Brno, and was then called Fürstenberg (“Princely Mountain” - German). The castle was rebuilt in the 16th century, as a result of which a wing of the palace was added, which was then destroyed in a fire. After the plunder by the Swedes, the castle was forgotten until the mid-19th century. Later, a reconstruction was carried out in the Empire style, but, unfortunately, part of the building was damaged and completely destroyed.
This castle arouses interest among tourists because of its ghosts, which “walk in crowds” here. According to historical data, during work in the basements, the bones of many victims were discovered - construction workers underground passage who were killed to maintain secrecy. Now, according to local legends, the spirits of these people wander and wait to be released.
Mysterious and beautiful castles
The castles of the Czech Republic, photos with names of which were given above, are a very small, but the most popular part of the attractions of the castle architecture of this small European country. To explore all such structures in the Czech Republic, you will need more than one month of travel, preferably in your own car. Because all castles, as a rule, are located surrounded by mountains and forests, and they are all beautiful and mysterious.
There are legends about the castles of the Czech Republic. These places, like no other, are rich in magnificent citadels, architectural features which cannot be compared with anything. Each palace has its own destiny and its own history, and any individual defensive structure has experienced a lot of bloodshed and wars at different periods of history. Excursions to Czech castles are always an amusing trip in past centuries, filled with confrontation, struggle for power, romance and great historical events. We bring to your attention the top 10 most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic.
Yeneralka Castle
The official name is the Small Yeneralka Castle (Yeneralka), located in the district of Prague of the same name, is an architectural monument and is made in the pseudo-Baroque style. The year of completion of construction is 1828, the founder of the building is Ignaz Komm, a wealthy bakery owner, the first owner is Krystof Kress. At the beginning of the 20th century, the castle was used to store agricultural products; in the 20s, the building was purchased for the Social Institute of Legionnaires. During the period when the Czech Republic was under the protectorate of Nazi Germany, the Gestapo headquarters was located in Yeneralka, and orphans lived who were planned to be given up for adoption to German officers. Since 1994, these walls have housed the European Baptist Federation, its headquarters, kindergarten, seminary and college.
Globetin Castle
The building is made in the neo-Gothic style and is located in the district of Prague of the same name. The building has only one floor; in the second half of the 19th century, a three-story tower was added to the citadel. Once upon a time there was a Romanesque church on this site, then a famous Prague lawyer bought the land and built a family estate on this site. Glowetin was repeatedly rebuilt and reconstructed by new owners, so it has survived to this day with elements and details in various styles. The thick fortress walls are made of beautiful, durable brick, and the courtyard is associated with the knights of the Middle Ages. For a long time, there was a window for baby boxes in the castle; today, within the walls of the citadel there is a sanatorium, and nearby there is the Church of St. George.
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Zbraslav Castle
The unique architectural complex is located at the confluence of two rivers - the Vltava and Berounka. Initially, a residence of the same name was built on this site in 1268, owned by Přemysl Otakar II. Three decades later, not far from here, the new monarch Wenceslas II built a Cistercian monastery, and Zbraslav became the tomb of the kings of the Přemysl dynasty. In 1420, the citadel was almost completely destroyed by the Hussites, and two hundred years later the building suffered another misfortune - terrible fire, which destroyed most of the premises. During the Baroque era, Zbraslov was reconstructed, but it was never restored to its original appearance. Today within these walls is located National Gallery, which rents the premises of the castle from one of the legal owners of the palace.
Pruhonice Castle and Park
Pruhonice is considered one of the most beautiful Prague castles, located in the region of the same name. In 2010, by decision of UNESCO horticultural architectural ensemble listed cultural heritage world size. Once upon a time, on the site of the fortress walls there was a small Romanesque defensive structure, which was later rebuilt into a Gothic building. In the 16th century, Průhonice acquired the features of the Renaissance, and during the 30-year war the castle was destroyed, remaining abandoned until the beginning of the 19th century. The new owners restored the house, improved the park around it, giving it features of a classic English style. Today, the Institute of Botany, famous throughout the country, operates within these walls, and you can get acquainted with the history of the facility in the Knights' Hall, where, in addition to excursions, wedding ceremonies are held.
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Roztoky Castle
It is located in the suburbs of the capital of the Czech Republic and was erected on the site where an ancient water tower stood. Initially (in the 13th century) the palace was a picturesque fortress made in the Gothic style; a little later, the unusual round building was rebuilt several times, acquiring features of Baroque, Renaissance and pseudo-Gothic. Around the building, the former owners from the Liechtenstein family built stables, malthouses, and an English park was laid out. By the 20th century, almost all buildings fell into disrepair and required large-scale reconstruction. Another major renovation was required in 2002, after a major flood. Since 2014, Roztoky has housed a museum, excursions to which are always popular among guests of the country and local residents.
Ctenice Castle
The castle was first mentioned in documents from the late 14th century. The uniqueness of Ctenice was that it was built on a rocky cape, and all the interior spaces were cut directly into the stone. The fortress was protected from enemy raids and attacks by a deep ditch and marshy terrain, which few managed to overcome. Ctenice is considered by architects to be one of the most striking examples of how a small noble residence can be transformed into an exquisite manor, decorated in the spirit of the Baroque style. The last reconstruction of Ctenice was carried out in 2002-2005, after which the citadel opened its doors to visitors. The exhibition presented in the castle concerns topics related to the reign of Franz Joseph, his immediate circle, family and the attitude of the Czechs themselves towards this dynasty.
Zvezda Castle
A small but very attractive castle rises on a hill and is surrounded on all sides by a pretty English park. In ancient times, there was a monastery on this site, and a little later this building was rebuilt as a hunting lodge for King Ferdinand I. The monarch bought this land in 1530, wanting to organize hunting grounds and a nature reserve in the local expanses. To limit the forest and park area, a wall was erected around it, part of which has survived to this day and is called the Northern Gate. Somewhat later, Archduke Ferdinand ordered the construction of a structure behind the wall, resembling a hexagram on top - from this the citadel was given the euphonious name “Star”. The architects of the project were well-known Italian masters at that time - Tirol, Wolmut, Lucchese, who created a unique design of facades and interiors. Since 1962, the castle began to belong to the state; today, “Zvezda” houses a variety of compositions, and concerts are regularly held on the third floor.
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Troy Castle
The generally accepted name is Troya Castle - a magnificent palace, striking in its elegance and aristocracy. In Prague, the castle is considered one of the most beautiful and annually sets records for attendance by tourists from all over the world. The location of the object is the northern part of the capital, Troya district, right on the Vltava River. Construction began on the orders of Count Sternberg, a man with refined taste and great financial resources. The complex was built under the direction of the architect Mate, who took a classic Italian villa as the basis for the project. Today, of particular interest to visitors is the imperial hall, on the walls of which paintings by the Dutch artist Gaudin have been preserved. In the hall, designed in Chinese style, it will be interesting to see the collection of oriental ceramics and unusual wall paintings.
Khvalsky Castle
Located in the city area known as "Prague 20". The first mention of Hvala Castle dates back to the beginning of the 15th century. Throughout its history, the citadel changed many owners until it was bought by the Jesuits. The monks organized an educational institution at the fortress and built an architectural ensemble in the Renaissance style. The fire of 1734 destroyed most of the premises, and subsequent renovations in the Baroque style only made the fortress more beautiful. After the abolition of the Jesuit order, the castle was abandoned until a full-scale reconstruction was carried out within these walls in 1993. Since 2008, Khvaly has been open to tourists, who are offered interactive excursions with the opportunity to touch everything and feel the atmosphere of past years.
Prague Castle
It would be impossible not to mention the largest castle in the world - Prague Castle. The facility extends over almost the entire eastern part of the city and is considered the most spacious presidential residence to date. The fortress was founded in the 9th - 10th centuries, the architect was Mathieu Arass, the complex is a mix of architectural styles such as Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The most interesting places to visit in Prague Castle are: Royal Garden, Ballroom, St. Vitus Cathedral, Summer Palace Queen Anne, Deer Moat, Orangery, Spanish Hall.
The Czech Republic is a country of Medieval castles and Renaissance palaces. Not all of its attractions are concentrated in the capital Prague. Ancient castles, lost in the middle of forests and small towns, keep many secrets and legends.
NAVIGATION
Hluboka Castle (Zámek Hluboká) in the Czech Republic stands a hundred kilometers from Prague, and tourists come to this part of the country precisely for this attraction.
It was built in the 13th century, and over the first few centuries it changed several owners. In the 19th century, reconstruction took place here in a neo-Gothic spirit, and the castle began to be called the Windsor of the Czech Republic. Now the castle is state property. This Czech fortress attracts many people of art: it often ends up in the canvases of landscape painters, and directors shoot historical films here.
Orlik Castle ( Orlik) was also erected in the 13th century, the purpose of the construction was to protect the shallow part of the Vltava, where troops could ford it.
Like the Hluboka Palace, it was reconstructed in the Gothic style. The last owners from the Czech aristocrats were representatives of the Schwarzenberg family. Now there are daily excursions lasting one hour, the season is April-October.
Krumlov Castle (Český Krumlov) in the Czech Republic stands in the picturesque village of Cesky Krumlov.
The tallest tower of the castle is more than thirty meters and is visible from afar. The complex was built in the early Gothic style, but then absorbed the features of the Renaissance and Baroque. The fortress consists of five courtyards, and in the entire Czech Republic is second in size only to Prague Castle. Inside you can take two excursions, each of which will help you experience the life of a medieval aristocrat.
Loket Castle (Hrad Loket) is located in Karlovy Vary, the name translates into Russian as “elbow”.
Built 800 years ago, historians are still trying to figure out which Czech ruler gave the order for construction. There are many attractions outside the walls of Loket Castle - the rotunda chapel, the margrave's house, a tower staircase almost thirty meters high. History buffs will be interested in the weapons museum dedicated to the military affairs of the Middle Ages.
Houska Castle in the Czech Republic is fraught with many legends.
According to one of them, it was erected over a well leading into the abyss. It took three years to cover it with soil. And then, in order to escape from the demons, a stone chapel was built over it. The corridors and rooms of the castle have been preserved in an appearance very close to the historical one, and convey the atmosphere of antiquity.
Sychrov Castle in the town of Turnove was built two hundred years ago, but the area had been used by the royal family and aristocrats for many years before that.
The building was made in the Baroque spirit, and later reconstructed with touches of Gothic. Walking through the castle gardens is unforgettable: unusual species of trees are collected here, and there are ancient stone fountains. Another attraction of the garden is the old stone water tower. The castle is open to tourists all year round; it is closed only on Christmas Eve.
Konopiště Castle is located just 50 km from the Czech capital.
Konopiste was built in the Gothic style, and is reliably protected by four high towers. Peacocks walk under the walls and in the garden, and carps swim in the pond. The popularity of the castle was ensured by the romantic story of Prince Franz Ferdinand. He gave up his crown for the sake of his beloved girl, and married her here.
The Falcon's Nest Castle (zámek Sokolí hnízdo), also known as the "Summer Castle", is located right on the Czech-German border.
Here is one of the most beautiful places throughout the Czech Republic - a beautiful nature reserve, and a castle, with observation platforms where you can admire all this splendor. The palace rooms have all the amenities for tourists, including a restaurant. Guests can also visit a museum dedicated to Czech Switzerland.
Křivoklát Castle ( Křivoklat), or Krivoklat, belonged to the royal family for many years.
Around there were hunting grounds that belonged to the crown. Once upon a time there were even dungeons here - and among today’s tourists, a small exhibition dedicated to ancient torture is a constant success. You should definitely take a stroll through the art exhibition and visit the ancient library.
Bitov Castle ( Bitov) is located in the south of Moravia in the Czech Republic, built in the 11th century.
Nowadays, tourists can look at a huge number of antiquities here. For men and lovers of military history, there is a special gift here: a large collection of weapons from the Middle Ages and Modern times. There is also a completely unique exhibition - a collection of stuffed hunting dogs of one of the wealthy owners. The castle is open to visitors from May to September.
Podebrady Castle ( Poděbrady) located in the very center of Bohemia.
It has a long history: for example, it was besieged by the Hussites several times. The castle belongs to the early Gothic style, but after the reconstruction of the 18th century, Baroque design elements were introduced. At the beginning of the 20th century, they were discovered here mineral water, and the castle became the center of the new resort. Numerous hotels in Poděbrady now offer visitors relaxation and sanatorium treatment.
Under the arches of Pruhonice Castle there is a small botanical Institute.
Průhonice Castle (Zámek Průhonice) lies a few kilometers from the Czech capital. Around it there is a picturesque park where valuable tree species grow. During its history, the castle changed many owners and was often reconstructed. Nowadays the most professional gardeners work here, thanks to whose work the garden remains beautiful even in winter.
Palace complex Lednice ( Lednice) is located close to the place where the Czech Republic and Austria border.
There is a greenhouse here that transports the visitor straight to the hot tropics. To make this possible, fertile soil was brought in and scientists worked to create the necessary temperature. The local garden is now a masterpiece of botanical science.
In the small village of Chyše, tourists can find a castle built and decorated in the Gothic style.
During the restoration, it was decided to restore the brewery that once stood in these places. Nowadays, guests come here to take a tour of the Hische Castle and visit the brewery. And, of course, drink a few glasses of the famous local beer. The famous Czech writer Karl Capek loved this castle so much that in several of his stories the action takes place here.
Zleby Castle (Zámek Žleby) is located one hundred and ten kilometers from Prague, on the coast of the Dubrava River.
A tour of one of the oldest fortresses in the Czech Republic will take you back to the Middle Ages. After all, now Zhleby is a huge exhibition of ancient utensils, paintings, weapons and armor. And the wall decoration is made of tanned deer skin. According to legend, at night in the middle of the castle corridors you can meet the ghost of a girl who committed suicide here in the 19th century.
Bouzov Castle ( Bouzov) is impressive with its surroundings - it stands on a cliff covered with forest.
Like many of the Czech castles, it was reconstructed. Over the centuries, it has changed owners, and today it looks very different, while clearly reflecting the medieval spirit. Now this is one of the most beautiful fortresses in the Czech Republic. Main tower almost 60 meters high, and under the arches the castle preserves the peace of the German knights of the past.
Špilberk Castle, formerly a royal residence, was built as a fortification for the city of Brno.
When the Middle Ages ended and the fortress walls ceased to serve as protection for the inhabitants, it turned into a prison. The most dangerous rebels of the Czech Republic were kept here, and now you can see an exhibition dedicated to torture.
The castle in the city of Třeboň, or Třeboň Palace, was built in the Renaissance style. This is one of the largest fortresses in the Czech Republic.
The castle has a turbulent history: for example, during the Nazi occupation, a Gestapo branch was located here, and Luftwaffe pilots were trained here. Nowadays, festivals dedicated to music and theater are held under the castle walls.
Veveří Castle is located near Brno. It was built in the 11th century, a thousand years ago, and was originally used for hunting.
Sieges took place here several times, and the fortress walls were stormed. During the war against fascism, historical buildings were destroyed, but today they have already been restored. Interesting fact: I came here during honeymoon future British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
Valtice Castle ( Valtice) belonged to its owners, the Liechtensteins, until the end of the Second World War. Every meter of the estate has preserved traces of its former luxury.
Any visitor can verify this by walking through the marble, gold or mirror cabinet. On May 7-8, a winemaking festival is held here. On this occasion, there are auctions where you can purchase a bottle of a drink made 200 years ago.
The ancient castle of Červená Lhota stands in the south of the Czech Republic and is fraught with many legends.
According to legend, the walls were once white. They had to be repainted after the princess jumped out of the castle window, and no one could wash off the stain of her blood. Since then the walls have been painted bright red. But it’s better to distract yourself from the mysticism and book a boat ride on the lake where the fortress stands.
Švíkov Castle stands near the town of Pilsen.
The Thirty Years' War once turned it into ruins, and the owners used the premises as a barn for a long time. Later, the territory was bought by the Czernins, the same aristocrats who built the Czernin Palace on Loretan Square in Prague. They also reconstructed the fortress. There are tours of the Gothic rooms; the armory, cellars, library and ancient chapel are of particular interest.
Kynžvart Castle is a striking example of the classicism architectural style.
To get to it, you need to drive 50 km from Karlovy Vary. There is a national nature reserve nearby, which means that the nature here is fascinating. The castle now houses the famous Czech library, containing more than 12,000 books, many of which are historically important manuscripts. There is also an unusual permanent exhibition where household items of famous people are displayed.
The castle serves as a hotel - and a room will cost 100 euros, which is not much for a night in a historical building.
You will find the Jemniště Palace (Zámek Jemniště) in the Benešov district, in the central part of the country. There is a beautiful park here, and in the middle of it is an equally impressive building in the Rococo style. These days, weddings are often held here. And the newlyweds usually get married in the Chapel of St. Joseph, which was painted by the best masters of their time.
Bitov is one of oldest castles Czech Republic, founded in the 11th century. Located in South Moravia at the confluence of the Zheltavka and Die rivers near the town. Architectural style Gothic and Baroque. This powerful fortress has protected the South Bohemian borders since the early Middle Ages. The castle received its modern appearance in the 19th century. Contains many unique exhibits, including the world's largest collection of stuffed dogs.
Blatna is a water castle from the Middle Ages, located in the south of the Czech Republic about 100 km from Prague. This is one of the most ancient and interesting buildings of this type in the Czech Republic. The first written mentions of the castle date back to the first half of the 13th century. It was founded on a small hill in the middle of swamps and swamps. In fact, that’s why it got its name (in Czech “blatna” - swamp, swamp). Currently, it is a three-story palace in the Gothic and Renaissance styles with a beautiful powerful tower guarding the entrance and a small bridge. The castle is surrounded by a pond. Also adjacent to it beautiful park, in which flocks of tame deer and roe deer roam. These horned beggars are not only not afraid of visitors, but will also happily eat apples, carrots or special food from your hands.
Bouzov is a romantic Gothic castle built in the 13th and 14th centuries, located in a picturesque area in the historical region of Moravia in the Czech Republic, approximately 30 km from Olomouc. Until the end of the 17th century, the castle belonged to Moravian nobles, until it was purchased in 1696 by the Teutonic Order, which owned Bouzov until 1945. Now the castle is a state castle. It is a national cultural monument of the Czech Republic.
Velke Losiny is one of the most beautiful arched castles in Central Europe, built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. For a long time this place belonged to an influential Moravian noble family- Zherotinam. It was they who built a large Renaissance palace on a grand scale on the site of an old and dilapidated water castle.
Hluboka nad Vltavou is one of the most unusual and yet famous castles in the Czech Republic, built in the English (Windsor) style. This is a castle, more like a palace, located in the south of the country near the city
