Castles Praha - Hodkovičky

Symbol of Czech Statehood and the Largest Castle Complex in the World

Pražský hrad is located in the heart of the capital city of Prague and is the largest continuous castle complex in the world. It serves as the seat of the President of the Czech Republic and at the same time as a significant cultural and historical center. The history of the castle dates back to the 9th century, when it was founded by Prince Bořivoj, and over the centuries it became the place from which Czech kings and emperors ruled.

What Pražský hrad Offers Visitors

The castle complex offers much more than just iconic structures. Fascinating art exhibitions, rare coronation jewels, and extensive collections concealing the stories of past centuries await visitors. When visitors have had enough of history, they can breathe in the fresh air in the Královská zahrada or during a walk through the picturesque castle courtyards. Furthermore, the castle is constantly alive. Ceremonial events, exhibitions, and cultural activities regularly come to life here, imparting a unique energy to this place.

A Place That Captivates Everyone

Whether visitors are passionate lovers of history and architecture looking for the details of old masters, or families with children discovering the beauties of the capital city, Pražský hrad will not disappoint them. It is a timeless experience for curious travelers from all over the world who wish to combine sightseeing with an exceptional atmosphere. Visitors are invited to experience a place from which Prague lies spread out before them like an open palm.

How to Get Here and What to Discover in the Surroundings

Pražský hrad is located on the left bank of the Vltava River and is easily accessible by public transport as well as on foot. In the surroundings, visitors can discover historic parts of Prague such as Malá Strana, Karlův most, Staré Město, or Petřín. The area is rich in monuments, galleries, museums, and cafes that complete the unique atmosphere of the capital city.

A Place Where History Was Written

This unique complex is the heart of Czech history and culture. It offers unforgettable experiences, magnificent architecture, and an atmosphere that will enchant every visitor. Visitors are invited to come and discover the symbol that embodies more than a thousand years of history of the Czech Republic.

It is said that every Czech person should visit the most famous landmarks at least once in their life, and the hrad Karlštejn undoubtedly belongs among them. It is a monumental medieval royal castle that was commissioned by Karel IV. The main motive for building this monumental Gothic jewel was the protection of the coronation jewels and holy relics, to which he attributed considerable importance. Those interested can reach the castle by car, for example, but there is also a cycling route leading here from Beroun. Finally, the castle is also easily accessible by train.

The history of Karlštejn began to be written in 1348, and from the very beginning of its existence, it held a special position compared to other Czech and Moravian castles. Karel IV himself arrived here as early as 1355 and personally supervised the construction work and the decoration of the interiors. He was particularly concerned with the appearance of the castle chapels, which are among the most sought-after places during tours.

Women at Karlštejn were and always will be

During the Hussite wars, the Czech coronation jewels were moved precisely here because Karlštejn guaranteed that they would be safe behind its walls. It is interesting that the jewels remained here long after the religious conflicts had subsided for some time. It is said that almost 200 years passed from their deposit until their next relocation. The main impulse was the Thirty Years' War, during which the castle was no longer considered impregnable. Few people also know that the castle underwent various reconstructions over the centuries. The historically last one took place in the 19th century in the spirit of purism, and its goal was to restore the castle's appearance to the Gothic period. From the 1950s onwards, only necessary adjustments were made, as required by its ever-increasing tourist popularity.

During a trip to Karlštejn, visitors can look forward to several tour circuits, which include the Císařská rezidence Karla IV., Karlštejnské hradní kaple, the Velká věž with the kaple sv. Kříže, which houses an exceptionally valuable collection of panel paintings from the workshop of Mistr Theodorik, and many others. Visitors should also see the beautifully restored garden on the barbican. Furthermore, women do not need to worry about being denied entry to the castle, because contrary to the popular belief depicted in the Czech film musical Noc na Karlštejně, ladies were not forbidden from accessing the castle.

The best accommodation near hrad Karlštejn is provided by comfortable cottages, holiday homes, and apartments, where one can arrive as a couple or, for example, accompanied by the whole family. We would certainly recommend staying in the area for a few days, as you will discover many other tourist attractions nearby that would be a shame to miss during your holidays. These include, for example, the Muzeum voskových figurín Karlštejn, the Muzeum betlémů Karlštejn, or the Muzeum lehkého opevnění. Given that there is truly a lot to see here, you should definitely not rush your return trip home.

The Neo-Gothic Castle Jewel in the Central Bohemian Region, Known for Its Historical Vehicle Exhibition and Miniature Park.

Hrad Červený Újezd, located in the Středočeský kraj (Central Bohemian Region), is a unique new building inspired by historical Gothic castles. It was built at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century as a private initiative, nevertheless with the aim of creating a cultural and entertainment complex accessible to the public. The castle features elements of Neo-Gothic architecture and, although it is a modern structure, it is built with an emphasis on medieval aesthetics and details. Its premises house several museums and exhibitions, including the extensive Muzeum historických vozidel (Museum of Historical Vehicles) and a historical weapons exhibition. The dominant feature of the complex is also an extensive park with miniatures of well-known Czech and Moravian castles and chateaux.

Access

Hrad Červený Újezd lies approximately 3 km from the village of Neumětely, near road I/4. Access by car is possible from road I/4, turning off towards Hostomice. Parking is available in an extensive free car park directly in front of the castle complex. Bus transport is limited; the nearest stops are Hostomice pod Brdy, náměstí or Neumětely, hrad, from where a short walk is required. The castle is not located near main railway lines. Thanks to its location, it is a popular destination for family trips.

What Is Worth Discovering

Nearby is Hrad Karlštejn, a Gothic castle founded by Karel IV. (Charles IV), which served for the safekeeping of the imperial coronation jewels. Visitors can also visit Zámek Hořovice – an extensive chateau complex with exhibitions and a baroque garden. For nature lovers, CHKO Český kras (Český kras Protected Landscape Area) with the Koněpruské jeskyně (Koněprusy Caves) and the quarries Velká Amerika and Malá Amerika is of interest.

Okoř is a romantic castle ruin located just a few minutes' drive from Prague. Most people know this tourist destination from the lyrics of the tramp song Okoř, which most of us encountered already back in kindergarten. The ruin is situated in the picturesque surroundings of the Zákolanský potok stream. Moreover, compared to many other castles, it was not protected against potential attacks from the surrounding area. One of the few other castles that was in a similarly exceptional position on Czech territory is, for example, hrad Kost. The best way to get to the ruin is to follow the road from the center of the village of Okoř. Since the torso of the castle is clearly visible, visitors need not worry about missing it during their journey.

Hrad Okoř was built in the second half of the 13th century, as archaeological surveys have proven. During this period, the tower, chapel, and wall were built. From a construction standpoint, the chapel was evaluated as demanding, so there is a relatively high probability that the castle was built by the king or another high-ranking person who could afford such an extravagant project. An interesting fact is that as early as the 14th century, the castle was owned by one of the wealthy Prague burghers, which was very unusual in terms of social and financial customs and conditions. All the more so because castles could mostly only be afforded by kings and nobles. Okoř belonged to the Rokycanský family for about 50 years and subsequently passed into the possession of other burghers.

In 1421, the castle garrison surrendered to the Hussites without a fight. Since it suffered no major damage, subsequent owners took turns occupying it, occasionally leaving behind some alterations. The first major blow to Okoř was dealt by the Thirty Years' War, during which serious damage occurred. After the war, the castle came into the possession of the Jesuits from the Kolej sv. Klimenta college, who modified it into a Baroque form and used it as their summer residence. However, this did not last long, because in 1733, following the suppression of the order by the pope, the roof of the castle was torn down and it gradually began to be dismantled for building material. Around 1800, part of the tower even collapsed. In the 19th century, impoverished dwellings were briefly located here, but tourism eventually prevailed.

Interested parties who wish to visit Okoř can look forward to a tour of the tourist circuit, which can be walked either independently or accompanied by a guide who will provide supplementary commentary. A popular attraction is not only the torso of the castle tower, but also the aforementioned Early Gothic chapel. The castle also had an advance bastion with a ditch and ramparts. Throughout the year, historical festivities and other events also take place here, which include the popular Open Air Festival Okoř.

Would visitors like to find pleasant accommodation near Okoř Castle? They will certainly appreciate local apartments and other types of accommodation capacities, from which it is also close to Prague. However, before setting off somewhere else, visitors are encouraged to stop by the shamanic circle Brána jednoho srdce. Families with children and art lovers might also enjoy Nový mlýn u Okoře, which features a system of small ponds and an outdoor sculpture gallery. It is believed that visitors will gladly return here in the future.