Opočno Chateau (Opočno Castle)

Opočno Chateau (Opočno Castle)

Královéhradecký kraj

75/10060 min

Opočno Chateau stands as a premier example of Renaissance architecture in the Czech Republic, located in the picturesque East Bohemian town of Opočno. Originally a medieval fortress, the complex was transformed into an elegant aristocratic residence featuring distinctive Italian-style outer arcades. The chateau is surrounded by a magnificent English landscape garden situated in the Zlatý potok valley, offering a tranquil environment with rare trees, ponds, and picturesque waterfalls. Today, the chateau serves as a captivating museum that invites visitors to explore its rich heritage. Inside, guests can admire beautifully preserved historical interiors, an extensive library, and valuable ethnographic collections. The chateau also boasts a significant painting gallery that was relocated from Prague in the late 19th century. One of the main highlights is its impressive armoury, which displays a vast array of European and Oriental weaponry.

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Astuce: Take time to explore the expansive 22-hectare English park, which is perfect for a relaxing stroll among rare trees and waterfalls. As the chateau houses multiple distinct collections, including a renowned armoury and picture gallery, consider allocating at least two hours for your visit. The summer pavilion overlooking the valley offers excellent views.

Faits intéressants

  • The round Well Tower is the only surviving structure from the original medieval Gothic castle.
  • The chateau's Renaissance arcades were directly inspired by Italian architecture after Vilém Trčka of Lípa visited Italy in 1551.
  • In 1634, the estate was sold to the Colloredo family for exactly 51,456 Rhenish guilders following the assassination of its previous owner alongside Albrecht of Wallenstein.
  • The chateau's armoury features an extensive collection of both European and Oriental weapons spanning from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Histoire

1068

The site was first mentioned in 1068 by Cosmas of Prague as a fortified settlement, later evolving into a Gothic castle that was conquered by Hussites in 1425.

1495

In 1495, the estate was acquired by the Trčka of Lípa family, who completely rebuilt it into a Renaissance palace between 1560 and 1567.

1634

Following the murder of Adam Erdman Trčka in 1634, the property was confiscated and sold to the Colloredo family.

The chateau underwent significant Baroque modifications in the 1690s under the direction of architect Giovanni Battista Alliprandi after a devastating fire.

During World War II, the estate was confiscated by Nazi Germany due to the Colloredo-Mansfeld family's opposition to the occupation, leading to decades of state ownership and complex modern restitution trials.

Guide du lieu

1
Renaissance Arcades1560-1567
Vilém Trčka of Lípa

The stunning outer arcades of the chateau courtyard, representing a highly valuable example of Italian-inspired Renaissance architecture in Bohemia.

2
The Armoury

A comprehensive collection of historical weaponry housed within the chateau, showcasing military history and craftsmanship.

3
English Garden17th-19th century
Colloredo family

A sprawling 22-hectare landscape park situated in the Zlatý potok (Goldbach) valley, featuring rare trees, ponds, and waterfalls.

4
Painting Gallery

An exceptionally valuable and large family art collection displayed within the chateau's historical interiors.

5
Church of the Holy Trinity16th century
Vilém Trčka of Lípa

Originally the chapel of St. Andrew, it was rebuilt to serve as the burial place for the Trčka family.

6
Chapel of St. Anne1690s
Giovanni Battista Alliprandi

A beautifully designed chapel located in the southern wing of the chateau, featuring Baroque architectural elements.

Contact

Téléphone: 494 668 216