Krivoklat is one of the Czech Republic's oldest and most important royal castles, a Gothic fortress that rises above a bend in the Berounka river and a forest that has changed little since medieval kings hunted here.
What to see
- The Gothic castle chapel, the Royal and Knights' Halls, and a library of 52,000 volumes, all on a guided tour through rooms that have hosted every Czech king since the 13th century
- The infamous dungeon and prison, complete with torture instruments; the English alchemist Edward Kelley, jailed here by Rudolf II, broke his leg attempting to escape
- The 42-meter Great Tower, reached by 72 spiral steps, with panoramic views over the Krivoklatsko forest reserve, a UNESCO biosphere
What to do
- Choose from three guided tours; the full castle route takes around 100 minutes and covers the chapel, halls, dungeon, and tower
- Try archery in the castle courtyard between tours; equipment is provided
Take note
- Book tours at krivoklat.cz
- The castle stays open on most winter weekends, unlike many Czech castles