Krivoklát

Krivoklát Review

For those in search of charm, nature, and peace, Krivoklát delivers. Its distance from Prague is actually a bonus to hardy travelers. It's a less crowded and more authentic castle experience. There's not much in the way of a town; so only those truly interested in Gothic beauty or nature outings should make a visit. Circled by dense forest (the name Krivoklát means "twisted branches"), among the rolling green hills above the Berounka River, the castle enjoys a peaceful setting. And it's a favorite of Czechs, thanks to its many romantic references in Czech literature, so you'll mostly be competing with locals for a visit. The river area is popular with hikers and cyclists, so you'll also see a lot of them stopping off for a break.

Not surprisingly, when you look at the lush forests surrounding the castle, the structure was used as a humble hunting lodge back in the 12th century. Greater things were to come, thanks to King Wenceslas I, who commissioned the first castle here. Future inhabitants expanded and beautified the place, including Charles IV and his son, Wenceslas IV. A number of fires significantly damaged the buildings, and toward the end of the 16th century it lost its importance and fell into disrepair.

After the Thirty Years' War the Schwarzenbergs took over and revived it. It's been in state hands since 1929.

A walk around the castle walls is one of the most enjoyable reasons to visit. Take a tour and you'll pass through the Great Hall (one of the largest Gothic hall in Central Europe, second only to one in Prague Castle) plus another hall, both loaded with Gothic paintings and sculpture; a beautiful chapel (another highlight of the interior tour), the castle library, a castle prison complete with torture instruments, and lots of hunting trophies. It's truly one of the more interesting castle tours around. One-hour tours are offered regularly in Czech, and tours in English must be requested in advance.