Situated southwest of Prague is Karlstejn - most famous Czech medieval castle. It was built between 1348 - 1355 under Charles IV to serve as a treasury for coronation jewels and state documents. It was altered in the renaissance style in the 16th century and in pseudo gothic style at the and of the 19th century. In its Holy Cross Chapel there is a unique collection of 132 gothic desk paintings by Master Theodosius dating from 1360. There are two tours through castle, the first passes through the Knight's Hall, Charles IV's Bedchamber and the Jewel House (includes treasures from the Chapel of the Holy Cross and a replica of the St Wenceslas Crown). The second takes you to the Great Tower, the museum on Mocker's work, the Marian Tower and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. It is best to book the second tour in advance.

Admission for the second tour is 200CZK or 300CZK.

Location: 30km from southwest of Prague, you can take a train to Beroun and stop at Karlstejn (tickets cost around 50CZK). The best to book is guided tour with organized transport. More info www.hradkarlstejn.cz

Opening hours of Karlstejn Castle:
March: Tu - Su  9 a.m. - 12 a.m., 1p.m. - 3 p.m.
April, October: Tu - Su  9 a.m. - 12 a.m., 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
May, June, September: Tu - Su 9 a.m. - 12 a.m., 12.30 p.m. - 5 p.m
July, August: Tu - Su 9 a.m. - 12 a.m., 12.30 p.m. - 6 p.m.
November (till 20. 11.), December (from 26. to 31.12. only), January (1.1. - 9. 1.): Tu - Su 9 a.m. - 12 a.m., 1 p.m. - 3 p.m