Belvedér, Observation terrace in Labská Stráň, Czech Republic.
Belvedér is a rock terrace with a view over the Elbe valley, situated about 130 metres above the river near Labská Stráň. Beside it stands the former inn, now Hotel Belveder, and an artificial niche in the rock was once used for theatre performances.
Prince Franz-Karl Clary-Aldringen had the viewing terrace laid out at the start of the 18th century, with an artificial niche used for theatre performances and decorated first with a theatre mask, later with the family coat of arms. After Binsdorf Castle burned down in 1790, interest faded and the site became accessible to tourists. A large restaurant opened in 1889.
The name Belvedér derives from the Italian belvedere, "beautiful view". Prince Franz-Karl Clary-Aldringen had the terrace laid out for the recreation and entertainment of the nobility, and an artificial niche there served for theatre performances. It was first adorned with a theatre mask, later with the coat of arms of the Clary-Aldringen family, which survives on the sala terrena.
Walkers reach the terrace on the red marked trail, about 15 km between Hřensko and Děčín. Drivers can park by Hotel Belveder, reached by road from Hřensko via Janov and Arnoltice. Steps below the restaurant lead down into the Elbe valley, and a stone path climbs from the Dolní Žleb ferry.
The artificial niche carved into the rock was first decorated with a theatre mask, later with the coat of arms of the Clary-Aldringen princes. It was used for theatre performances and festivities, and the family crest of the founders survives at the site to this day.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,498 contributors worldwide.