Prague Castle & Other Castles and Chateaux in the Czech Republic

Prague Castle made the list of the World’s Most Beautiful Castles published by CNN in August 2019. The “Prague’s imposing citadel” dates to the 9^th century and is the most visited site in the country. Once you become one of the 2,444,900 visitors who annually visit the Prague Castle, make sure not to miss the other beautiful castles located in the Czech Republic, some of which we introduce to you today.

Prague Castle

The Prague Castle complex consists of several historical buildings, spacious gardens, and a row of cottages from the 16^th century called the Golden Lane where the castle guards used to live. The Prague Castle landmark, the Cathedral of Saints Vitus, Wenceslas and Adalbert originated around 935. The enormous Prague Castle complex is listed in the Guinness Books of Records as the largest ancient castle in the world, occupying an area of almost 70,000 square meters (750,000 square feet), with an approximate length of 570 meters (1,870 feet) and a width of about 130 meters (430 feet). You can enjoy an evening tour of the Prague Castle after dark or book yourself a spot on the 3,5 guided tour through the exterior and interiors of the complex.

Kost Castle

Hidden in a thick forest in a countryside 80 kilometers north of Prague is the Kost Castle, one of the few remaining medieval castles in the Czech Republic. Located in the Cesky Raj region (“Český Ráj“ meaning Czech Paradise) and surrounded by beautiful nature and fishponds, Kost Castle is undoubtedly worth a visit. The castle is dominated by the angular White Tower which is five storeys high. Visitors can enjoy regular guided tours of the castle but also horse tours of the surrounding countryside or entertaining events such as a medieval tournament happening in the castle. Additionally, the castle offers medieval accommodation within the castle premises to its visitors.

Cesky Krumlov Castle

The monumental complex of Cesky Krumlov Castle located on a hill above a meander of the Vltava River overlooks the refined Renaissance and Baroque architecture of the same called town. It is one of the most significant monuments in Central Europe for its architecture, cultural tradition and scale. The complex consists of 41 separate palaces and outbuildings and a 12-hectare ornamental garden. In 1989, the castle became a National Monument and in 1992, the entire complex was added onto the list of UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. Cesky Krumlov is located in South Bohemia; 180 kilometers away from Prague.

Hluboka Castle

Hluboka Castle is a Neo-Gothic jewel of South Bohemia. Thanks to its character, original furnishing and extensive park, Hluboka Castle is considered one of the most significant Romantic monuments in Europe and in the world. It was founded in the middle of the 13^th century by Bohemian kings. Today, the castle owes its current appearance to the Schwarzenberg family which founded an expansive landscaped park in the middle of the 19^th century. During the various tours of the castle, one can see 140 rooms and 11 towers, private and lavish ceremonial halls, the castle kitchen and the castle riding hall. Check out and see the fairy complex for yourself!

Karlstejn Castle

Located 30 kilometers southwest of Prague, Karlstejn Castle was built in 1348 as a getaway destination and a place of safekeeping royal treasures for Charles IV, King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor. and has since been among the most popular castles in the Czech Republic. After the 1480, the castle was rebuilt in the late Gothic style and by the end of the 16^th century in the Renaissance style. Today, the castle attracts tourists to see the unique original 14^th-century wall decoration, a set of 129 paintings in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the largest portrait gallery of kings of Bohemia in the Czech Republic and a replica of the royal Crown of Bohemia. The castle is a very popular destination for visitors from all over the world given its proximity from the capital city as well as for locals because a famous comedy play was set at the castle.

Chateau Lednice

Chateau Lednice is one of the most beautiful Neo-Gothic style complexes in Europe. The chateau is surrounded by a 200-hectares garden which includes a Palm house, a Roman aqueduct, a Venetian fountain, a Chinese Pavilion and multiple ponds. The first mention about Chateau Lednice appeared in 1222. The Liechtenstein family acquired the whole estate in 1249 and they have owned it for nearly 700 years. Chateau Lednice was originally built as the fortress and it was rebuilt in Renaissance style in the 16^th century. The complex is situated in the South Moravian Region, which is famous for its wine production.

Photo source: CzechTourism