Karlstejn Castle from Prague

A medieval Castle, founded in 1348 by Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor-elect and King of Bohemia, it was built to house the crown jewels and royal treasures and objects of importance. The Castle is striking to look at and its history is intriguing. Its survival through the centuries is astounding. It is a building that tells many tales of battles, treasures and royal life.

Designed in medieval times, it underwent a Renaissance face lift in the 16h century and finally comes to rest in its neo-Gothic appearance in the late 19th century.

Well worth a visit to see the grandeur and extravagant architecture from the neo-Gothic period and to learn more of the interesting history of castle design, architecture and usage since the Medieval times.

The castle is separated into three areas, the Imperial Palace, the Marian Tower and the Big Tower. Inside the fortified sixty metre high Big Tower, is the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This central room was built to safeguard the most important state documents and the crown jewels. Built with four doors and 19 locks, this room is unique in Europe with no equivalent found elsewhere. On the first floor, where the Emperor lived, the largest room is the Knight Hall.

A grand Gothic castle, Karlstejn is one of the most visited castles in the Czech Republic and you will see why when you visit.

Languages
English. German, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian available on request.