Any traveler would do well to pay a visit to the Czech Republic, a nation rich in history and culture with magnificent castles and exquisite architecture. Here are five of the most amazing castles you should visit close to Prague:
Karlstejn Castle: One of the most well-known and well-preserved castles in the Czech Republic is Karlstejn Castle, which is only a short drive from Prague. This castle is a must-see for anybody interested in the history of the nation due to its spectacular Gothic architecture and extensive history. Built in the fourteenth century, the castle served as both a royal residence and a safekeeping facility for the crown jewels. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, including the Great Hall and Chapel of the Holy Cross.
A medieval castle called Karlstejn Castle may be found in the Czech Republic, around 25 kilometers southwest of Prague. It was constructed in the middle of the 14th century by Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, as a location to keep the crown jewels, sacred artifacts, and other significant government records and property. In addition to opulent residences and halls for Charles and his court, the castle was built as a stronghold with thick defensive walls and towers.
Over the centuries, Karlstejn Castle underwent several renovations and expansions, including the addition of Gothic elements and the construction of new palaces and towers. Despite being sacked and damaged several times during wars and invasions, the castle remained a significant symbol of Czech history and culture.
Karlstejn Castle served as a prison and a military storage facility during the 19th and 20th centuries. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the castle underwent considerable restoration to return to its former glory and previous medieval aspect. Karlstejn Castle is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the Czech Republic today, drawing tourists from all over the world to marvel at its exquisite architecture, fascinating history, and breathtaking views of the countryside.
Krivoklat Castle: Another castle close to Prague is Krivoklat Castle, a remarkable example of Gothic design that features a lovely chapel in addition to its towering spires. The castle was erected in the thirteenth century and has a long and storied history, having served as both a royal palace and a prison. The chapel and the armory of the castle are both open to visitors during guided tours.
Krivoklat Castle is a historic medieval castle located in the Czech Republic, approximately 50 km from Prague. The castle dates back to the 13th century and was built as a royal palace and hunting lodge for Bohemian kings. During the following centuries, the castle was used as a strategic military stronghold and played an important role in the Hussite Wars in the early 15th century.
The Renaissance palace that was built in the 16th century as part of Krivoklat’s expansion and rebuilding was later utilized as a jail for aristocratic prisoners in the 17th and 18th centuries. Additonally, the castle served as a military training facility and a location to store guns and ammunition during the 19th century.
In the 20th century, Krivoklat underwent renovations and restoration, and today, it is open to the public as a museum and cultural heritage site, showcasing its rich history and architectural beauty. The castle features a large collection of paintings, tapestries, and furnishings, as well as a well-preserved Gothic chapel and a spacious courtyard.
Krivoklat Castle is considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Czech Republic and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Cervena Lhota Castle: This stunning red castle, located in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, is one of the most picturesque castles in the Czech Republic. The lovely castle proudly sits on a small island in the middle of a lake and is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, including the great hall, chapel, and castle grounds.
Cervena Lhota Castle is a beautiful Renaissance-style castle located in the Czech Republic. It was built during the 16th century and was designed as a hunting lodge for Czech nobility. The castle sits dominantly on a small island in the middle of a pristine and breathtakingly beautiful lake and was used as a recreational property for many centuries. This castle has a unique red roof and is considered one of the most picturesque castles in all the Czech Republic. Thankfully, it has been well-preserved and has undergone numerous renovations to maintain its original charm and style. Today, Cervena Lhota Castle is open to the public and serves as a popular tourist destination.
Konopiste Castle: Konopiste Castle is located just outside of Prague and is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. The castle was built in the 14th century and was once a royal palace. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, including the great hall, chapel, and castle grounds. The castle is also famous for its vast collection of firearms and hunting trophies, which are on display for visitors to see.
Konopiste Castle is a Gothic-style castle located in the central part of the Czech Republic, near the city of Benešov. The castle was built in the 14th century as a fortification and was later transformed into a Renaissance-style palace in the 16th century. It was a property of the wealthy Lobkowicz family until the mid-19th century, after which it was acquired by the Schwarzenberg family.
The castle became famous as the residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, who lived there from the late 19th century until his assassination in Sarajevo in 1914, which triggered the start of World War I. The castle is now open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing collections of hunting trophies, weapons, and other artifacts from the Archduke’s life and hobbies. The castle gardens and parks are also open to visitors, providing a peaceful and beautiful environment for walks and picnics.
Hluboka Castle: Hluboka Castle is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in the Czech Republic. The castle is located in the South Bohemian region and was built in the 13th century. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, including the great hall, chapel, and castle grounds. The castle is also famous for its stunning gardens, which are considered to be some of the most beautiful in the country.
Hluboka Castle is a Gothic-style château located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It was built in the 13th century as a small fortification and underwent multiple expansions and renovations over the centuries. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the castle was transformed into a Renaissance-style residence, with the addition of new wings, towers, and a large park.
In the 19th century, the castle underwent a major renovation, led by Viennese architect Friedrich von Schmidt, who transformed it into a Neo-Gothic style. This renovation added many new features, including a new chapel, a tower, and an impressive entrance gate. The castle became a popular tourist destination and was opened to the public in the 20th century.
Hluboka Castle has played an important role in Czech history, serving as a royal residence for many centuries and playing host to many important events and visits by royalty. It is now a popular tourist attraction and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic.
Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just someone who loves stunning views, these five castles near Prague are not to be missed. Each castle has its own unique history and charm, and offers a glimpse into the rich culture and stunning architecture of the Czech Republic.
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