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Křivoklát Castle
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Křivoklát Castle is one of the oldest and most significant royal castles in the Czech Republic, situated in the forested highlands of Central Bohemia. Founded in the 12th century under the Přemyslid dynasty, it served as a strategic hunting seat and residence for Bohemian kings such as Ottokar II and Wenceslaus IV. In the late 15th century, the castle underwent a massive reconstruction in the Late Gothic style under Vladislaus II Jagiello, which defined its current monumental appearance. Particularly noteworthy are the castle chapel with its valuable Late Gothic altar and the extensive Fürstenberg library, housing over 52,000 volumes. For centuries, the fortress also functioned as a notorious state prison, where prominent figures like the alchemist Edward Kelley were incarcerated. Today, the castle is part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is managed by the National Heritage Institute.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: přírodní rezervace Nezabudické skály · přírodní rezervace U Eremita · Pamětní síň Oty Pavla
- Nearby: Rakovník (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 33 | 40 | 37 | 69 | 76 | 78 | 79 | 54 | 47 | 44 | 44 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Křivoklát Castle in Czech Republic is open to visitors with guided tours through the royal chambers and chapel. The outer grounds and courtyard are freely accessible.
Typical hours
The castle is open daily, typically from 9:00 to 17:00 in summer, with shorter hours in winter. Current times can be found on the castle's official website.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside without flash; outside you can photograph without restrictions. The view from the keep is especially photogenic.
Time needed
A guided tour lasts about 50 minutes; overall, allow 1.5 to 2 hours including time in the courtyard and surroundings.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a hike in the Křivoklátsko protected landscape area. The nearby town of Beroun also provides historical sights.
Getting there
The castle is about 40 kilometers west of Prague, reachable by train to Beroun then bus or hiking. Parking is available at the foot of the castle.
Insider tip
Visit the castle on a weekday to avoid crowds. Ask about the guided tour of the Gothic chapel - it contains rare wall paintings.
Geography
Facts
- Founded around 1110 as a wooden hunting lodge for the Přemyslids.
- The main castle tower stands 42 meters tall.
- Major Late Gothic reconstruction began in 1471 under Vladislaus II.
- The library contains rare incunabula and 52,000 volumes.
- Alchemist Edward Kelley was imprisoned here from 1591 to 1593.
- Designated as a National Cultural Monument in 1958.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Křivoklát Castle (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How far is Křivoklát from Prague?
About 50 km west, roughly an hour by car.
What was the castle used for historically?
As a royal hunting lodge and later as a notorious prison.
What is the interior highlight?
The Gothic chapel and the valuable library with 50,000 volumes.
Are guided tours mandatory?
Yes, the interiors can only be visited with a guide.
Are there events held there?
Yes, knight tournaments, markets, and concerts are regularly held.
Křivoklát Castle: where is it located?
Křivoklát Castle is located in Czech Republic.
Křivoklát Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include přírodní rezervace Nezabudické skály, přírodní rezervace U Eremita, Pamětní síň Oty Pavla.
Křivoklát Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Křivoklát Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Křivoklát Castle is one of the oldest and most significant royal castles in the Czech Republic, situated in the forested highlands of Central Bohemia.
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