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Karlštejn Castle

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Karlštejn Castle, one of the most significant Gothic fortresses in the Czech Republic, was founded in 1348 by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. Its primary purpose was the secure storage of the Imperial Regalia, holy relics, and state treasures of the Holy Roman Empire. The castle's architecture follows a strict hierarchy, culminating in the majestic Chapel of the Holy Cross within the Great Tower. This chapel is adorned with over 2,000 semi-precious stones and a unique cycle of 129 panel paintings by Master Theoderic, representing the 'Heavenly Host'. Despite numerous sieges, including by the Hussites in the 15th century, the castle was never successfully taken by force. In the late 19th century, it underwent a purist restoration in the neo-Gothic style led by Josef Mocker, which gave the castle its current iconic silhouette. Karlštejn remains a powerful symbol of Czech statehood and a testament to the cultural zenith reached under the rule of the Luxembourg dynasty.

Location: Czech Republic
Top sights: Karlštejn · Well Tower · Wax Museum
Nearby: Beroun (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	-1	3	8	13	17	20	19	14	9	3	-1
Rain mm	43	33	40	37	69	76	78	79	54	47	44	44

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Karlštejn Castle can only be visited on a guided tour. The outer courtyard and surroundings are freely accessible.

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Typical hours

The castle is typically open from April to October, often also on weekends in winter. Mondays are frequently closed.

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Photography

Indoor photography is allowed without flash, but prohibited in some rooms. Outdoor photos are always allowed.

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Time needed

Allow at least two to three hours for the castle tour and the ascent. The path is steep, sturdy footwear recommended.

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Combine with

The nearby village of Karlštejn invites a stroll through its lanes. Kokořín Castle is also within a day trip distance.

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Getting there

From Prague, reach Karlštejn by train in about 40 minutes. From the station, it's about a 20-minute walk uphill to the castle.

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Insider tip

Book your tour online in advance, especially in peak season. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a must-see highlight.

Geography

Coordinates

49.93920, 14.18830

Facts

The foundation stone of the castle was laid on June 10, 1348, by Archbishop Arnošt of Pardubice.
The Imperial Coronation Regalia were kept here for nearly 200 years until 1619.
The walls of the Chapel of the Holy Cross are decorated with genuine gold leaf and semi-precious stones.
During the Hussite Wars in 1422, the castle was besieged unsuccessfully for seven months.
The castle well is 78 meters deep but never actually had its own water source.
The restoration by Josef Mocker between 1887 and 1899 significantly altered the original appearance.