Letohrádek Hvězda, Renaissance castle in Liboc, Czech Republic
Letohrádek Hvězda is a Renaissance castle in Liboc with a symmetrical star-shaped layout and classical architectural elements built on a hilltop. The geometric ground plan shapes both the exterior and interior appearance of the building.
Archduke Ferdinand II of Austria had this summer residence built in 1555, marking a shift away from Gothic architecture in Bohemia. The castle was created during a period when Italian Renaissance styles were transforming the architecture of Central Europe.
The palace shows Italian architectural influence in Bohemian design, with classical columns and ornate decorations that visitors can see throughout the rooms. These design choices shaped how the building looks and feels today.
The castle is open to visitors and offers guided tours through various rooms. The tours explain the spaces and their features, helping you navigate through the building and understand its layout.
The building follows a perfect star-shaped pattern, making it a rare example of geometric Renaissance architecture in Central Europe. This geometric form was a bold architectural choice for its time and shows the innovative spirit of its builders.
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