Castles to visit Czech Republic

Troja Castle is a Baroque-style summer residence on the banks of the Vltava River in Prague's northwest suburbs. Built for the Counts Sternberg, the palace is surrounded by formal gardens featuring an orangery, a labyrinth, numerous fountains and statues. Architect Jean-Baptiste Mathey drew his inspiration from opulent Roman villas. The interior features magnificent salons, sculpted staircases and period paintings.

History and architecture enthusiasts can visit the former Špilberk Castle gaols. In the cellars, which were built during the last phase of the construction of the complex, you will come across mannequins in 18th century costumes and instruments of torture, all illuminated by a dim light. We quickly understand the role of this fortress which was the main prison of the empire. One can imagine the oppressive power of the Austrians in the 19th century and the rediscovery of the place by the Gestapo.

In this charming little town 10 km from Opava are two of the most beautiful castles in Silesia: the Red Castle and the White Castle. They stand on a hill and overlook the town and the surrounding area. The White Castle, dating from the 16th century, was once in Renaissance style, but after reconstructions in the 18th century it took on a classical appearance. The Red Castle was built at the end of the 19th century to host cultural events.

Kašperk Castle is the highest Bohemian castle above sea level (886 meters). It was built in 1356 by King Charles IV. It protected the gold mines of the region and guarded the borders with Germany while securing the traffic on the Golden Path. Sound and light effects have been designed to better visualize the layout of the castle in the 14th century. From the main tower there is a magnificent view of the Šumava River and Germany.

This castle and its superb ruins are those of a huge complex. Located on a wooded hill, this fortress, which seems to emerge suddenly from the forest, was built in the 13th century to protect the entire region (Moravská Brána). The fortification system (rows of walls, towers, 6 gates) is impressive. Different architectural styles are represented, testifying to countless destructions, reconstructions and developments over the centuries.

This 15th century Gothic castle is perched on the Vranov ridge. But don't expect a proud castle here, because not much remains of the original building. Everything was rebuilt in 1820 and transformed into a romantic pantheon. A small neo-Gothic chapel was also built. There are commemorative plaques and innumerable paths dug in the rock winding around. Some caves can be explored. The view over the valley is superb.

The construction of this castle began in 1241, decided by Zděslav of Divišov. It is constantly transformed during its history. A beautiful chapel was built in the 13th century, one of the oldest in the country. Enlarged in the 16th century, it was redesigned in the 17th century in Baroque style. What we see today: a privileged location, beautiful towers and defensive walls. It is worth noting the skill of the architects who, over the centuries, had to adapt the castle and the new elements to the narrowness of the site. Inside: fifteen pieces of various styles, numerous family portraits, porcelain, weapons, hunting trophies, beautiful furniture and above all one of the largest collections of prints from the Thirty Years' War in Europe: unmissable! It is worth noting the important renovation of the Italian Baroque from the inside, with the use of many stuccoes and the beautiful Rococo chapel of San Sebastian. But all these additions of the 17th century did not completely remove austere Gothic elements.

The castle does not strictly speaking have any landscaped gardens, but rather a terrace overlooking the river, but do not hesitate to take a walk in the surroundings: the village and the Sázava river at the foot of the castle offer a bucolic setting to relax after the visit.

Restaurant of the castle. Lunch only. Medieval decoration and simple cuisine for about 120 Kč the dish.

This beautiful Renaissance castle owes its present appearance to Count Auersperg, who made numerous alterations to it after its acquisition in the second half of the 19th century. The first mention of a castle on the site dates back to 1289 and refers to a Gothic construction, which evolved in the 15th century into a Baroque style after an almost total destruction by the Hussites.

The visit is worthwhile for the abundance and quality of the interior decorations, admirably well preserved. The architects commissioned by Auersperg to renovate the castle and make it admirable were able to make excellent use of the original historical elements and combine them with the more modern decorative or architectural elements of the time to give a unique and resolutely romantic result. The Tudor style fireplaces are unique in Central Europe. The personal collection of the Count and the acquisitions made at that time, especially in terms of antiques, make the visit worthy of a museum! It houses a very important collection of weapons of all periods and all origins, a large collection of period costumes and a complete kitchen with its utensils. The facilities on the various levels of the large tower (visit at an extra charge, 120 Kč) offer a striking observatory on the surroundings of Kutna Hora. Finally, the castle park is home to a small animal sanctuary where local species including unusual white deer are displayed.