Karlštejn Castle
Hrad Karlštejn
A Gothic castle built by Charles IV to house the imperial regalia and relics, standing on a forested hill. It is the most popular castle near Prague.
Karlštejn Castle was built in 1348 by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV to store the imperial crowns and holy relics, and is one of the Czech Republic's most famous castles. The castle is built in tiers. The Chapel of the Holy Cross, in the tallest tower, has walls inlaid with more than 2,000 gemstones and 129 portraits of saints (on a separate route that requires advance booking). From Prague, take a train for about 40 minutes to Karlštejn station, then walk uphill for about 30 minutes. Visits must be made with a guided tour; in peak season, book in advance on the official website.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct 09:00–17:00 (closed Mondays); partially open in winter
Nearby sights
- Strahov Monastery & Library
- Petřín Hill
- Loreta
- Prague Castle
- Memorial to the Victims of Communism
- Vyšehrad
- Náplavka Riverbank
- Lennon Wall