In the south of the Czech Republic, 140 km from Prague, one of the most beautiful and interesting castles of Europe - Hluboka nad Vltavou is located. Many tourists come to this region solely for the sightseeing of this landmark. The castle of Hluboka nad Vltavou will not leave you indifferent - you will definitely fall in love with it.

The fortress dates back to the 13th century. True, at that time she wore another name - Frauenberg, - and outwardly very different from the modern castle. In the first 400 years, 26 masters have changed here. Some of them had to give the castle for debts, someone to save themselves from the displeasure of the ruler. In the 17th century, Gluboka nad Vltavou passed into the possession of the Schwarzenberg family.

In the 19th century Duchess Eleonora Schwarzenberg visited England, where she liked the local Windsor Castle. Returning home, the lady started a large-scale reconstruction of Hluboki - in the romantic style of Neo-Gothic. After the end of the works, the castle was unofficially called "Czech Windsor". From the previous building in the Baroque style there is no trace left. From that time, Hluboká nad Vltavou almost did not change. The Schwarzenbergs ruled the castle until 1945. Two years later, the landmark was nationalized and handed over to the state.

Once you enter the castle park, you will find that you are in a fairy tale. A well-kept park deserves close attention: rare kinds of trees grow here, there are several ponds and even a hunting castle Fence. During the reconstruction of the castle, 12 thousand trees and 2180 shrubs were planted here. The huge area underwent changes - almost 200 kilometers.

After the walk in the fresh air you will find yourself in the Hluboké nad Vltavou. Each floor here had its own purpose. For the economic work was the lowest floor, there was a kitchen, warehouses and rooms servants. The first owner of the castle was Jan Adolph II Schwarzenberg, and also the hunting hall.

The second floor was the most chic, here receptions of visitors were arranged. In addition, on this floor is the library and rooms of Princess Eleonora. The third floor was reserved completely for guests During the inspection of the castle of Hluboka you will see a large collection of weapons, knight armor and hunting trophies . In truth the unique local library numbering 12 thousand books in five languages ​​. Here there are fine porcelain collections , furniture, Dutch tapestries and a large exposition of painting . The castle kitchen amazes with its technical devices . Chefs Gluboki used a special applesauce and potato peeler, an ice cream maker, a cutter ice, self-rotating skewers in a large fireplace and even an elevator to pick up dishes . By the way, tourists can see a large collection of old china ware .

During the reconstruction of the castle, exclusive glass paintings were made on some windows, and in one of the rooms of the princess was delivered a very expensive gothic icon. It is interesting that the Schwarzenberg coat of arms is often found in the elements of the castle decor

The tourists can get to the Hluboki Tower only in good weather. But if you are lucky and you are not too lazy to overcome 245 steps, then you will have a very picturesque view of the surrounding area. The height of the Tower is 52 meters

Practical information

Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle works all year round. The day off is Monday. In July and August the castle is open daily. Cash desks are closed for lunch from 12 hours to 12:30. From January to March, the castle is open from 10 to 16:00, in April - from 9:30 to 16:30. From May to August, the work hours are from nine to 17:00. September-October - from nine to 16:30, November-December - from 10 to 16:00. Keep in mind that in December this year Hluboka will work until December 20, in 2014 the castle will open on January 2.

Prices for excursions in Russian depending on the chosen route - from 40 to 250 CZK. Children under six years old are free of charge. An excursion along the main route will cost 250 kroons (with an audio guide - 200 kroons). For children, students and disabled people - 160 CZK (120). Family ticket - 600 kroons. Private apartments - 230 EEK (200), for children, students and disabled - 160 EEK (120). Family ticket - 520 EEK. Walking along the park is free of charge.

There are souvenir shops near the entrance to the castle where you can buy something for memory - magnets, postcards with Hluboki views or handmade jewelry. Very often an excursion to the castle is combined with an excursion to the town of Cesky Krumlov. This beautiful city is so small that you will have time to see the main sights and even go to the official shop of the Turnovo garnet factory. The choice of jewelry is good here, and prices are sometimes lower than in Prague

All prices are for August 2013.

Address: Bezrucova 142, Hluboka nad Vltavou