Photo by zamek-hradec.cz

Slavic people settled at this place already at the end of 8th century. In the 11th century Slavic settlement turned into a royal castle of the Přemyslids. After next 200 years it was rebuilt by Czech King Premysl Otakar II. into the palatial castle protected by a massive fortification. In 1531 the castle burned down, but despite major repairs still holds its medieval appearance.

The total reconstruction was done in the late 16th century by Kaspar Pruskovský from Pruskov, who in 1585 inherited this property. At the castle was established ornamental garden with a breeding pond Pilar.

In February 1796 a renaissance castle was badly damaged by fire. A year later started its reconstruction, which not only brought substantial changes to exteriors, but also a fundamental change in the surroundings. The chateau was rebuilt into the form that has survived with minor changes until today. One of the first guests in the renovated castle was composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who stayed here between 1806 – 1811. A little later the castle even welcomed Niccolò Paganini and in 1846 and 1848 also hosted the pianist and composer Franz Liszt.

The second half of the 19th century brought another neo-Gothic transformation. The most important building of that time was an economic extension of the Red Castle dating from 1874 – 1895 and the White Tower.

The castle Hradec nad Moravicí became in 2002 a national cultural monument, and is an important center of social events.

For further information visit official site of Chateau Hradec nad Moravicí (only in Czech ).

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The first mention of the original village dates back to the 12th century. Most of the monuments in this city, as well as throughout Luxembourg, were bombed during the war.

The village is now a popular summer resort with a swimming pool, camping and a youth hostel. You can follow any of the numerous trails which lead you through the forests of the Mullerthal valley.

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The history of the castle dates back to the 13th century, when there is a first mention. At that time, a castle was built in Gothic style and was called Luegg. Today’s version of the Renaissance castle dates from the 16th century. In 1810 was Predjamski Grad owned by Count Michael Coronini von Cronberg. In 1846 the castle was sold to Windischgrätz family. They owned it until the end of the second World War II, when it was nationalized by the Yugoslav Communist authorities and turned into a museum, which is still located here.

Predjamski Grad has 5 floors. Today the castle is one of the biggest attractions in this area. Tours take place only in the summer and lead through the 15 rooms and a gallery. There are lots of various events in the castle such as the medieval tournament Erazem. Also you can make a wedding ceremony here.

Predjamski Grad was used as the castle featured in the 1986 movie Armour of God (film) by Golden Harvest starring Jackie Chan, Alan Tam, Rosamund Kwan and Lola Forner.

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The Kronborg castle has been one of the most important Renaissance castles in Northern Europe. The castle was originally used to collect duties, and was later rebuilt to Renaissance castle. However it is important to note, that Renaissance means something else in Italy and something else in Scandinavia. Later the castle was used as barracks for two centuries.

You can save a tour of the interior. After the fire, there is not much remained to be seen inside. It is best to walk along the sea and the view from the ship.

Kronborg Castle has been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list in 2000.

History of Kronborg Castle

• In 1420s the fortress, Krogen, was built by the Danish king, Eric of Pomerania.
• In 1585 was rebuilt by Frederick II into a magnificent Renaissance castle and renamed to Kronborg.
• In 1629 the castle was totally burned due to some mistake of two workers.
• In 1639 the castle was restored by Christian IV, but the interior never fully regained its former glory.
• From 1688-1690, an advanced line of defence and ramparts were built around it, which made Kronborg Castle the strongest fortress in Europe.
• From 1739 until the 1900s, Kronborg was used as a prison.

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