Hluboká Castle (Zámek Hluboká)
Jihočeský kraj
Hluboká Castle, historically known as Schloss Frauenberg, stands as a monumental architectural jewel in the South Bohemian town of Hluboká nad Vltavou. It is widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful and enchanting castles in the Czech Republic. Originally founded as a royal Gothic fortress in the 13th century, the estate underwent multiple significant transformations over the centuries. It evolved through distinct Renaissance and Baroque phases under various noble owners. Its current, striking Romantic Neo-Gothic appearance is the result of an extensive 19th-century reconstruction. This ambitious project was heavily inspired by the majestic design of England's Windsor Castle. The castle complex is beautifully complemented by a sprawling 1.9-square-kilometer English-style landscape park, which adds to its fairy-tale atmosphere. Inside the grounds, visitors can explore a magnificent winter garden and a former riding hall. This specific area has proudly housed the Southern Bohemian gallery exhibitions since 1956. As a designated National Cultural Monument, it remains one of the country's top tourist destinations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Furthermore, its picturesque and dramatic architecture has made it a highly sought-after filming location for international movies and music videos.
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Tip: The castle is open to the public, and exploring the expansive 1.9-square-kilometer English park is highly recommended. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Southern Bohemian gallery exhibitions located in the former riding hall and winter garden. Since it is one of the most visited castles in the country, arriving early or booking tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •The castle's current Romantic Neo-Gothic design was directly inspired by England's Windsor Castle.
- •In 2019, it ranked as the 3rd most visited castle in the Czech Republic, welcoming 293,000 visitors.
- •The castle served as a filming location for the movies Shanghai Knights (2009) and Underworld: Blood Wars (2016).
- •In 2019, K-pop soloist Park Jihoon filmed the music video for his song 'L.O.V.E.' at the castle.
History
The site originally housed a Gothic castle built during the reign of Ottokar II in the second half of the 13th century.
It was expanded during the Renaissance by the Lords of Hradec and later rebuilt into a Baroque residence by Adam Franz von Schwarzenberg in the early 18th century.
The Schwarzenberg family, who acquired the estate in 1661, initiated its final transformation between 1841 and 1871 under Johann Adolf II, employing architects Franz Beer and F.
Deworetzky.
The family resided there until 1939, when Adolph Schwarzenberg fled overseas to escape the Nazis.
The property was subsequently seized by the Gestapo in 1940 and permanently confiscated by the Czechoslovak communist government in 1947 under the Lex Schwarzenberg.
Place Guide
English Park1841-1871
A sprawling 1.9-square-kilometer landscaped park surrounding the castle, designed in the English romantic style to complement the Neo-Gothic architecture.
Winter Garden and Riding Hall
A beautiful architectural extension of the castle that now serves as a prominent cultural and exhibition space.
