Prague Guide

Konopiště Chateau is situated in the midst of charming gardens and a scenic landscape. This chateau once belonged to the successor to the Habsburg throne Franz Ferdinand d´Este - famous for his death in 1914 which started WWI. Originally a gothic castle built in the 14th century it was rebuilt in the 19th century and houses fascinating collections of historical weapons, furniture, paintings and tapestries. Worth seeing is Franz Ferdinand's impressive collection of medieval arms and armour and the landscaped garden with peacocks grazing on the lawn. Franz Ferdinand was obsessed with hunting and his home is decorated with his trophies. In his books he recorded that he shot around 300.000 creatures, from foxes and deer to tigers, more than 100.000 of these still decorate the walls. St George renovated the castle in the 1890's with up to date technology such as flush toilets, electricity and a lift. There is also the St George Museum just beneath the castle terrace. There are three guided tours available.

Admission: from 145 CZK to 250 CZK, museum 25 CZK.

Location: 40 km to 50 km south east of Prague, you can take a bus from Roztyly metro station to Benesov u Prahy (40 CZK, takes 40 minutes) or train from Main Station to Benesov u Prahy. Castle is just 2.5km from a town. More info www.zamek-konopiste.cz or book excursion online.

Opening hours for museum and chateau:

April, October: Tu - Fr 9 - 12 a.m., 1 - 3 p.m., Sa + Su 9 - 12 a.m., 1 - 4 p.m.
May - August: Tu - Su 9 - 12 a.m., 1 - 5 p.m.
September: Tu - Su 9 - 12 a.m., 1 - 4 p.m., Sa + Su 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
November: Sa + Su 9 - 12 a.m., 1 - 3 p.m., Tu - Fr for booked groups only