Hluboka nad Vltavou Castle is rightfully one of the most recognizable and photogenic historical monuments in the Czech Republic. Erected by a nobleman at the beginning of the 13th century as a fortress intended for protection, the castle originally had a different name - Frauenberg. Since then, it has undergone numerous renovations and transformations. We will tell you about the history of this place, when is the best time to visit and how much it costs.
History
It was endowed with Gothic features by a Czech-Moravian magnate named Vilém II only at the end of the 15th century. Later, the building became the property of the monarchs, but already in 1562 the castle passed into the hands of a wealthy Czech family, known as Vitkovici from Hradec.
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In 1490, a pond called Bezdrev, which is the second largest in the Czech Republic, was equipped. In 1563, the castle was reconstructed: its appearance changed from Gothic to Renaissance. At the beginning of the 18th century, the fortress tried on the Baroque style. And from 1840 to 1871 there was an extensive transformation of Hluboka nad Vltavou into the romantic neo-Gothic style. The changes also affected the surrounding landscape with the park.
The latest transformation was inspired by Windsor Castle. For 31 years, two architects worked on the project of the Hluboka nad Vltavou castle: the first drawings belonged to Franz Beer, and Damasius Devoretsky continued and finished the work.
Let's mentally walk through the fortress and its surroundings.
Hluboka nad Vltavou Castle is located among enchanting forests and looks like a wonderful vision. He seemed to have descended from the pages of the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen or Charles Perrault.
Landscape park and old garden
In the park you will meet extraordinary, exotic trees and charming flowers of indescribable beauty. In addition, there is a two-flight staircase with a fountain in the "New Gothic" style and a round-shaped pool framed by bushes. The main character fell into it in the famous Czech fairy tale film "The Proud Princess", filmed in the fifties.
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The old garden is located in the central part of this magical park. Here you can walk along curved paths and streets, winding like a snake between trees and bushes. This place looks so fabulous that not a single visitor remains indifferent.
Castle tower
In warm weather, you should definitely climb the tower. To do this, you will have to make an effort, you will need to overcome 245 steps. And it's worth it! The view from the observation deck is indescribably beautiful.
Halls
The primary route of the excursion runs through the halls intended for official receptions. You will have the opportunity to see a collection of wall tapestries and arts and crafts.
The excursion will delight regardless of age and gender. Within the walls of the castle there is a stunning collection of weapons and an ancient mirror, looking into which, as the legend says, you will remain forever young.
Climbing to the second floor, you can observe the chambers of Princess Eleanor and an impressive library located there. There is also a smoking room here - the Schwarzenbergs considered it bad manners to smoke on the balcony.
Kitchen
This place is striking in its originality. Here you can see specialized elevators for transporting food, a potato peeler and spits that can rotate independently.
The kitchen area is divided into 3 functional areas for food preparation: for cold, hot and all kinds of sweet dishes.
Hluboka nad Vltavou is one of the most beautiful fortresses in all of Europe. It is worth coming here in order to touch the luxury and rich history of these walls. In addition, this place is appreciated by spouses, who can often be found here. Wedding photos on the background of the castle walls are a beautiful highlight of the marriage album.
Castle rules
Today, the Hluboka nad Vltavou fortress belongs to the Czech government and is available for sightseeing visits almost all year round.
The administration is prohibited from:
- spoil property
- make noise
- touch the interior and exhibits
- stay on the territory of the castle with animals
- photography is prohibited inside, but allowed outside
Working hours
Closed on Monday; in August and July - the castle receives guests every day, seven days a week.
January to March, November and December: 10:00 to 16:00; April and August to October: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm; May to July: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
In December, excursions are held on the 18th inclusive. After the New Year holidays, the castle begins to receive guests from January 2.
Practical information
Excursion prices vary depending on the part of the castle you want to visit and the age group. There are also family tickets, which are also the most expensive. You can clarify the nuances, prices and find out the details of the routes on the official website of the Hluboka nad Vltavou castle.
Hluboka nad Vltavou Castle on the map
Gouska Castle is another notable castle in this country.
