Zámek Bon Repos
Baroque summer palace with a Chinese pavilion near Pragu
Zámek Bon Repos, situated in the Středočeský kraj region near Čelákovice, is a unique complex of summer houses that was built as a hunting and leisure residence for a Czech nobleman. Its name, Bon Repos, means "good rest" in French, which accurately reflects its purpose. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century for Count František Antonín Špork, one of the most significant patrons of Baroque art in Bohemia. The complex consists of the main Baroque chateau and two unique auxiliary buildings. One of them is the Červený zámek, and the second is the Chinese-inspired Čínský pavilon with an octagonal floor plan, which testifies to the fashion for oriental elements at the time. After the death of Špork, the chateau changed owners and was protected, but gradually fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, the chateau passed into private ownership and is shining once again following an extensive reconstruction.
Access
Zámek Bon Repos is located in the Středočeský kraj region, near the village of Čihadla. Access by car is possible via the I/38 road, with a turn-off onto a local road. Parking is available in the vicinity of the complex. The nearest rail connection is in the nearby town of Čelákovice.
What is worth exploring
The chateau is surrounded by an extensive chateau park and forests. In nearby Brandýs nad Labem, visitors may visit Zámek Brandýs nad Labem, which is a Renaissance building and a popular residence of the Habsburgs. One may also visit the historical town of Nymburk with its valuable Gothic fortifications. For nature lovers, the Labe river and its surroundings are of interest.
