The Châteaux of Bohemia : baroque treasures of Czechia

In Bohemia, baroque châteaux are real open-sky treasures and after a long Winter truce, more than 200 of them will be reopening their doors to the public, only 1h from the capital, Prague. For some of them, protected by the norms of UNESCO, these visits offer a journey through the fascinating history of this Central Europe country, along with the exceptional landscapes surrounding them.

Baroque treasures on a journey through the châteaux of Bohemia

One of the most remarkable landmarks of the region is without a doubt the château of Hluboka Nad Vltavou, homestead of the Schwarzenberg family, whose foundations come from the 13th century. Give yourself the time to really discover it, because it counts 140 rooms and 11 towers. Quite nearby, the high murals of the Cesky Sterberk fortress overlook the Sazava river. Its interior plays on emotion with the « Knight's Room », ornamented with stucccos, reception halls with period furniture, collections of paintings, hunting trophies, engravings on copper and 17th century miniatures.

At the château of Hluboka Nad Vltavou, each tower has a story to tell. © Roman Cestr

Since its construction, in 1241, Château Cesky Sternberk has remained in the hands of the same family. © Libor Svacek

Safeguarded royal fortresses

A little more down south, stands the imposing château of Konopiste, former residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, emulating medieval art. This Summer, after strolling through the arms room and the armory, visitors will be able to discover the living quarters of the duchess. Impossible to depart from Bohemia, without stopping by Kalstejn. Built under the orders of Charles IV, during the 14th century, in yesteryear, it sheltered the crown jewels. Follow the guide through the main reception room and the chapel of the Holy-Cross to admire its precious gems. Your journey will end in an apotheosis !

In Konopiste, you will be diving in the life of the château as it was preceeding World War I. © Ladislav Renner

Less than one hour outside of Prague, the château of Kalstejn is by far the most visited in Czechia. © Ladislav Renner