Castles in the Czech Republic

While there are many exciting places to visit and things to see while in the Czech Republic, without doubt, the castles should fall at the top of the list. With more than 2,000 castles and chateaux, all well preserved, the Czech Republic boasts more per square mile than any other country on the globe. These castles are a huge part of the cultural heritage and provide interesting, artistic value to the countryside. In this article, we will discuss some of the specific castles and chateaux that you might consider visiting.

Today, the majority of castles and chateaux in this country are state owned, even though some were given back to the original owners. However, even the owners have taken the responsibility of keeping the property maintained and opened to the public for their enjoyment. As you walk through the castles and chateaux, you cannot help but be impressed by the level of skill for this day and age. The furnishings are expensive, which include porcelain, weaponry, glass, crafts, and pictures. Some castle and chateaux ruins have been so well cared for that approximately 60 now reside on the Register of National Cultural Monuments.

Buchlov Castle

The Buchlov castle was built in the early part of the 13th century and while it remained the permanent property of the king until the 16th century, this particular castle was often shared with noble families. Then in 1511, Buchlov caste fell into private hands, being owned until the 18th century by families from Petovald, Zastoizl, and Zerotin. Over time, Baroque and Renaissance styles were added onto the castle with the Baroque chateau being completed in 1707. The last owners of the castle were the Berchtolds after which time it was turned into a family museum by two brothers, opening to the public in the 19th century.

Krakovec Castle

Constructed in 1383, the Krakovec castle was designed for the royal court. From an architectural standpoint, the castle is quite imposing and the last known home to Jan Hus. At the end of the 15th century, the castle was enlarged and strengthened with a large row of gun bastions. Then in the 16th century, Krakovec castle was updated in the Renaissance style. Sadly, while still under construction in the 17th century, it was devastated by fire in 1783. When looking at the ruins, you will find that the work done was incredible, providing a look at the brilliance of castle architecture. Today, the Krakovec castle is the largest in the Czech Republic.

Tocnik Castle

This castle was first discussed in the late 14th century and the home of its founder, King Wenceslaus IV. This castle was actually inhabited until the Thirty Year War at which time the majority of it was dilapidated. However, today the Tocnik castle still dominates much of the area. As you walk around, you can still see much of the original interior, along with archaeological finds specific to the royal palace.

Lednice Castle

Finally, the Lednice castle was founded during the early part of the 14th century by Raimund of Lichtemburk. Throughout its history, this particular castle had other important owners but in the 15th century, the castle was purchased by Mikulas Trcka of Lipa. His descendants built on a new palace during the 16th century and then in 1537, parts of the castle were ordered to be adapted in the late Gothic style. Even so, some of the coming Renaissance was also seen. Unfortunately, the castle was abandoned during the Thirty Year War where it would remain empty until a devastating fire in 1869. Today, some of the structure has been reconstructed to secure it against complete collapse.

Other castles that you might consider visiting while in the Czech Republic include Bezdez, Cesky Sternberk, Helfstyn, Klenova, Kost, Loket, Malenovice, Nove Hrady, Pecka, Rostejn, Svojanov, Trosky, Velhartice, and Zvikov among others.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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