Krivoklat

Krivoklat Castle dominates the landscape of this Central Bohemian town, standing as one of the oldest and most important royal castles in the Czech Republic. The fortress dates back to the 12th century and was significantly expanded by various Bohemian kings, including Přemysl Otakar II and Vladislav II Jagiello. Its architecture is a striking mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring a massive cylindrical tower, a beautifully preserved late-Gothic chapel, and a notorious dungeon that once held the famous alchemist Edward Kelley.

Surrounding the town is the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area, a UNESCO biosphere reserve characterized by deep river valleys, rocky outcrops, and dense broadleaf forests. This natural setting makes Krivoklat not just a historical destination, but a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Berounka River, which snakes through the region, is popular for canoeing and fishing, while a network of well-marked trails invites hikers and cyclists to explore the serene Bohemian countryside.

Reasons to Visit

• Explore the magnificent interiors of Krivoklat Castle, including the Royal Hall and the impressive library containing over 52,000 volumes.
• Hike through the pristine forests of the Křivoklátsko UNESCO biosphere reserve.
• Experience traditional Czech culture during the castle's summer medieval festivals and artisan markets.
• Enjoy a scenic train ride from Beroun, often cited as one of the most beautiful railway routes in the country.
• Discover the dark history of the castle's torture chambers and prison cells.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid visiting on Mondays during the tourist season, as the castle interiors are closed to the public.
• Do not rely solely on credit cards; many small vendors and local transport options only accept cash.
• Avoid wearing high heels or uncomfortable shoes, as the walk up to the castle involves steep, uneven cobblestones.
• Skip the peak midday hours in July and August if you want to avoid large tour groups; opt for early morning or late afternoon visits instead.

Local Transportation Tips

Krivoklat is a small village, and the primary mode of transportation within the town is walking. The train station is conveniently located just a short, albeit uphill, walk from the castle entrance. For exploring the wider Křivoklátsko region, renting a bicycle is highly recommended, as there are numerous dedicated cycling paths. Local buses connect Krivoklat to surrounding villages, but services can be infrequent, especially on weekends, so checking the timetable in advance is essential.

Travel Etiquette

• When entering a shop or a small tavern, it is polite to say 'Dobrý den' (Good day) and 'Na shledanou' (Goodbye) when leaving.
• Tipping in restaurants is customary; usually, rounding up the bill or leaving about 10% is appreciated. Hand the tip directly to the waiter when paying rather than leaving it on the table.
• Respect the natural environment in the Křivoklátsko reserve by staying on marked trails and taking all trash with you.
• Photography is often restricted or requires an extra fee inside the castle's historic rooms; always check with your tour guide before taking pictures.

Recommended Age Group

Krivoklat offers a blend of history and nature that appeals to a wide range of ages, though the physical terrain requires some consideration.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. Stroller access is limited inside the historic castle due to stairs and cobblestones, though the surrounding nature trails and lower courtyards are pleasant.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. The medieval castle, complete with a dungeon, armory, and summer archery exhibitions, sparks imagination, while the surrounding forests offer great outdoor play.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Engaging history, dark tales of alchemy, and active hiking or canoeing along the Berounka River provide a good mix of education and adventure.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The rich architectural history, local breweries, and extensive hiking networks cater perfectly to adult travelers seeking a cultural and active escape.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The village is peaceful and scenic, though the steep cobblestone paths up to the castle may require a slower pace and sturdy footwear.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The lower courtyard of Krivoklat Castle is generally accessible to wheelchair users, offering good views of the architecture.
• Access to the interior guided tours involves numerous stairs and narrow passages, making it unsuitable for visitors with severe mobility impairments.
• The path from the train station to the castle is steep and paved with uneven cobblestones.
• Accessible restrooms are available near the main ticket office and parking area.
• Some of the paved trails along the Berounka River in the valley are flat and suitable for mobility scooters or wheelchairs.

Did You Know?

Krivoklat Castle was once a feared state prison. Its most famous inmate was the English Renaissance occultist and alchemist Edward Kelley, who was imprisoned there by Emperor Rudolf II in the late 16th century after failing to produce gold. Kelley famously attempted to escape by lowering himself from a window using a rope made of clothes, but the rope snapped, resulting in a shattered leg.

Cool Statistics

• Krivoklat Castle was first mentioned in historical records in the year 1109.
• The castle's Great Tower stands at an impressive height of 42 meters (138 feet).
• The Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area covers approximately 628 square kilometers.
• Over 62% of the Křivoklátsko region is covered by dense, ancient forests.
• The castle library houses an astonishing collection of over 52,000 historical books and manuscripts.