Krzywoklat Castle

Krsivoklat Castle, located 40 kilometers from Prague, is one of the oldest castles in the Czech Republic. Surrounded by forests, in the Middle Ages it served as a hunting castle for rich and noble hunters.

The history of the castle dates back to the XI century, when the fort Krsivoklat appeared on this place. Two centuries later, the Gothic castle of Przemyslovichi, rulers of the Czech Republic, appeared in its place. Rich hunting grounds, a large number of game attracted kings and nobles here. This continued until the first fire in the history of the castle. The future emperor Charles IV (Prince Wenceslas) restored Krsivoclat, he also added a large tower and an upper courtyard. It’s hard to say how many times the castle burned, but each time it was rebuilt. Since the XVI century, its premises were used as a prison for especially important criminals. The English alchemist Edward Kelley was imprisoned here, and he was never able to create the philosopher's stone for Emperor Rudolf II.

Although not used as a royal residence, the castle is home to the majestic Grand Royal Hall. It also houses the royal library, collected in the XVIII century. In the Knights Hall there is a collection of weapons and military ammunition. The art gallery stores samples of paintings and sculptures of the Middle Ages. On the tower with a height of 42 meters there is an observation deck with a picturesque view of the castle and the surrounding area.