Podzámecká zahrada, Castle garden in Kroměříž, Czech Republic.

Podzámecká zahrada is a large garden space adjoining the Archbishop's Chateau, combining different landscape styles and plant collections. The grounds include pathways, water features, open lawns, and wooded sections that create distinct areas within the whole.

The grounds began in the early 16th century as a practical area for growing vegetables and fruit for the chateau. It was later transformed into a designed garden space reflecting Baroque tastes and ideas.

The garden forms part of the Archbishop's estate and demonstrates how designed landscapes were shaped for leisure and reflection. Walking through it, you notice how different sections were meant for different uses and social occasions.

The park stretches from the chateau down to the Morava river, with three fish ponds and a network of canals and bridges, so plan a route rather than wandering at random. The Colloredo colonnade by the north wing gives direct access from the chateau, and a large stone staircase on the side of the chateau leads in from the town square. The grounds are open all year and entry is free.

A small enclosure within the garden holds domesticated animals while peacocks and swans wander freely across the wider grounds. This mix of enclosed and roaming creatures creates unexpected encounters as you walk.