Karlova Koruna Chateau

Karlova Koruna Chateau, which translates to Charles’s Crown, is one of most important Baroque chateaux in the Czech Republic and was designed by Jan Santini Aichel, a prominent Italian architect of the 1700s. The chateau was realized between 1721 and 1723 and was built as the summer home of Count Frantisek Ferdinand Kinsky in honor of Emperor Charles IV coronation. When the Emperor visited the chateau it was renamed to its current title, Charles’s Crown Chateau. The structure features a unique ground plan, which showcases a cylindrical core with three wings; the effect of the ground plan is a striking resemblance to a crown. The ground floor features an exhibition on the family and a numerous amount of horse paintings due to the Kinsky family’s obsession with breeding the gorgeous beasts. The second floor, reached via a grand spiral staircase showcases a rich ballroom and further bedrooms littered with family heirlooms and even more horse paintings. The grounds of the chateau feature a covered riding hall with horse stables, a 40-acre formal garden with elements of the English and French Baroque garden styles, an orangery and a chapel dedicated to St. Ann.  

Photos: Dolce Vita

Chlumec nad Cidlinou 503 51, CZ, +420 495 484 519, www.kinskycastles.com