Rising dramatically from a limestone ridge above the Berounka River valley, Karlstejn Castle stands as one of the most visited and photographed monuments in Czech Republic. This Gothic masterpiece, founded by Emperor Charles IV in 1348, was designed with a singular sacred purpose: to safeguard the Holy Roman Empire's most precious treasures.

A Brief History

The construction of Karlstejn began in 1348 under the direct supervision of Charles IV, who was not only King of Bohemia but also Holy Roman Emperor. Unlike typical medieval fortresses built primarily for defense, Karlstejn was conceived as a secure repository for the imperial regalia and the most sacred relics of Christendom.

The castle's design reflects this spiritual mission. The complex rises in a stepped arrangement, with each level representing increasing sanctity. At the summit stands the Chapel of the Holy Cross, where the crown jewels and relics were stored in an environment meant to evoke heavenly Jerusalem. The chapel walls are decorated with over 2,000 semi-precious stones and 130 panel paintings by Master Theodoric.

Karlstejn Castle towers and walls
The distinctive stepped silhouette of Karlstejn Castle rising above the village

Architecture and Layout

Karlstejn's architecture showcases the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles that characterized 14th-century Bohemian building. The castle complex consists of several distinct structures:

  • Imperial Palace - The lower residential quarters where Charles IV stayed during his visits, featuring the Great Hall and private chambers
  • Marian Tower - Housing the Church of Our Lady with remarkable original 14th-century frescoes depicting the apocalypse
  • Great Tower - The massive central keep containing the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the spiritual heart of the castle
  • Well Tower - A 78-meter deep well that provided water during sieges

The strategic positioning on a steep rocky promontory made Karlstejn virtually impregnable. The castle survived the Hussite Wars in the 15th century when many Bohemian castles were destroyed or damaged.

The Crown Jewels Connection

From 1350 to 1421, Karlstejn served as the repository for the Bohemian crown jewels and the coronation regalia of the Holy Roman Empire. The security measures were extraordinary for the time: the Great Tower containing the Chapel of the Holy Cross was connected to the rest of the castle only by a wooden drawbridge, and women were strictly forbidden from entering.

Today, the original crown jewels are kept in Prague Castle, but Karlstejn's connection to this royal heritage remains a central part of its identity and appeal.

Karlstejn Castle aerial perspective
Aerial view showing the castle's strategic hilltop position

Visiting Karlstejn Today

Karlstejn offers several tour routes, each providing different perspectives on the castle's history and architecture:

Tour Route 1: Imperial Palace

The most popular option, this 55-minute tour covers the Imperial Palace, Great Hall, treasury, and the Church of Our Lady in the Marian Tower. No advance booking required for most of the year.

Tour Route 2: Chapel of the Holy Cross

The highlight tour accessing the magnificent Chapel of the Holy Cross with its medieval panel paintings. Limited to small groups and requires advance reservation, especially in summer months.

Tour Route 3: Great Tower

A specialized tour focusing on the castle's most fortified section, offering insights into medieval security and construction techniques.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: April-October: 9:00-18:00, November-March: 10:00-15:00 (closed Mondays)

Ticket Prices: Tour 1: 220 CZK adults, 140 CZK students. Tour 2: 330 CZK (reservation required)

Getting There: Direct trains from Prague Main Station to Karlstejn (40 minutes). From the station, it is a scenic 20-minute walk uphill to the castle entrance.

For current information, visit the official Karlstejn Castle website.

Tips for Your Visit

Making the most of your Karlstejn experience requires some planning:

  • Wear comfortable shoes - the walk from the village is uphill on cobblestones
  • Book Tour 2 in advance if you want to see the Chapel of the Holy Cross
  • Arrive early in summer to avoid crowds and the midday heat
  • Allow time to explore the charming village of Karlstejn below the castle
  • Consider combining with a visit to nearby caves at Koneprusy for a full day trip

Photography

Karlstejn is incredibly photogenic, but note that photography is prohibited inside the castle interiors. The best exterior shots can be captured from the village below, showing the castle's dramatic silhouette against the sky. The viewpoint from across the valley offers a classic perspective of the entire castle complex.

Last updated: February 2, 2026