Konopiště Castle
Zámek Konopiště
The hunting residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary, filled with hunting trophies and weapons. The castle gardens have peacocks and a rose garden.
Konopiště Castle is in Benešov, about 45 km southeast of Prague. It was begun in the 13th century and from 1887 belonged to Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, whose assassination in Sarajevo triggered the First World War. The castle preserves scenes of the heir's family life, one of Europe's largest weapon collections, and tens of thousands of hunting trophies. Visits must follow a guided route, so book in advance during peak season. From Prague, take a train for about 1 hour to Benešov, then walk about 2 km. The castle park is open free of charge.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct 10:00–16:00 (closed Mondays)
Nearby sights
- Žižkov Television Tower
- Vyšehrad
- National Museum
- Náplavka Riverbank
- Wenceslas Square
- Mucha Museum
- Dancing House
- U Fleků