Konopiště Castle
Zámek Konopiště

Visit the romantic castle of Konopiště which was once Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s beloved hunting lodge and residence!

Have you ever seen the film The Illusionist? If yes, then during your visit to Konopiště Castle you’ll recognise the long hall of hunting trophies and the castle’s exterior from the film. This impressive castle was once the much loved hunting lodge of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Plus, the castle is just 30 minutes south of Prague by car, making it a popular choice for day trippers and history buffs.

A fairy tale castle

Surrounded by beautiful green countryside where the Duke would often go hunting, the castle is incredibly picturesque. While originally built in a gothic fortress style in the 13th Century, numerous modifications turned the castle into a romantic French-style chateau complete with round fairytale turrets, moat and drawbridges. Its rose garden even puts Disney’s Beauty and the Beast’s garden to shame.

Once upon a time

The Duke lived at Konopiště happily with his wife against the wishes of his family and tons of cash, transforming the castle into a decked out palace. It had all the latest comforts: an electric elevator, electric lighting and hot and cold showers. Hey, back in the day those were mega luxuries.

Everything changed when Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo in 1914. The First World War began and the castle became the property of the Czech State. The castle has been basically a memorial of the Duke and his love for hunting ever since

• Pieces of history: come to Konopiště Castle for a sight you won’t see anywhere else. The actual bullet that killed the Duke is on display here. Plus, during World War 2 the castle was taken over and it became the headquarters of the SS units in the area. History buffs shouldn’t miss it!
• Inside the castle: lots of people come to Konopiště Castle just for a stroll in its beautiful grounds and gardens, but the inside of the castle is worth a look too. There’s 4 tour routes that take you through the Duke’s home, family rooms, and the famous hunting corridor full of the Duke’s hunting “trophies”.
• Medieval vibes: no castle is complete without its suits of armor. Konopiště Castle is home to the third largest collection of medieval armor and weapons in Europe.
• Beararium: Make sure to keep an eye out for the rare Asian black bear who lives in the moat or what is lovingly called the “Beararium”.