Staré Hrady Castle, Renaissance château in Staré Hrady, Czech Republic.
Staré Hrady is a stone fortress that underwent transformation during the Renaissance, when decorative sgraffito work was added to its exterior and courtyard surfaces. The complex blends defensive medieval forms with Renaissance ornamental details across multiple buildings.
The fortress began as a Gothic structure in 1340 and underwent major renovation during the Renaissance period when architectural workshops updated its design. These changes shaped the appearance that survives to the present day.
The castle served as a residence where daily life unfolded across different periods and rooms that tell these stories. Exhibitions about life during Emperor Francis Joseph I's era show how the castle functioned as a living space for its inhabitants.
Guided tours are available in several languages including English, German, Polish, and Russian to help visitors explore the site. The grounds offer parking, bicycle storage, and refreshment areas for convenience.
The castle cellar contains a fairy-tale styled exhibition with around 150 fantastical figures from Czech mythology and folklore traditions. This whimsical collection often surprises visitors since it contrasts with the medieval exterior of the building.
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