Four Seasons Offers Private Tours of Karlstejn Castle
Get the royal treatment with an exclusive after-hours tour of Karlstejn Castle near Prague.
Ever dream of being king or queen of the castle, even if it is for just a few fleeting hours? Four Seasons Hotel Prague can grant that wish. Explore Karlstejn Castle sans crowds on a private tour with Four Seasons expert guide Marketa Kratochvilova. She takes guests through the castle and shares stories and myths related to the majestic place and those who lived there.
“During the off-hours, the atmosphere is definitely unique,” says Kratochvilova. “You can sense the positive energy, especially in the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This is an exclusive opportunity to take in the history and charm of this amazing castle built by one of the best kings of our nation.”
Karlstejn Castle Offers Many Treasures
Built in 1348 by Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV, the Gothic castle was where King Charles stowed his royal treasures for safekeeping. This included his collection of holy relics and the coronation jewels of the Roman Empire. The castle was finished in 1365 when the Chapel of the Holy Cross in the Great tower was consecrated.
“The best part for me is getting to the place with ceilings decorated with original frescos, where you can see the whole collection of Gothic paintings by Magister Theodoricus,” explains Kratochvilova. “It’s the largest Gothic paintings collection done by one artist [129 panel paintings]. The collection represents the heavenly army of Jesus Christ and is located in Chapel of the Holy Cross.”
The castle, overlooking the Berounka River, is an hour’s drive from Prague. The half-day tour for two includes a limousine and driver, private guide and entrance fee for CZK20,000 (US$1,062). Please book private tours a week in advance. Call 420 221/427-000 to reserve your time as king or queen of Karlstejn Castle.
