Jindřichův Hradec Chateau

The Castle and Chateau complex in Jindřichův Hradec dates back to the 10th century when it grew from an original Slavic settlement which was situated on rocky land above the confluence of the Nežárka River and the Hamerský Brook. The chateau, which is the third largest in the Czech Republic after Prague Castle and the Cesky Krumlov Castle, started as a Romanesque-Gothic fortress and then morphed into a majestic Gothic castle titled “Novum castrum“ or New Castle, which served the Lords of Hradec as their main residence until 1604 when the family died out. At the end of the 16th century Adam II of Hradec had the castle rebuilt as a grand Italian Renaissance chateau, ensuring that the complex would have everything even the most demanding Renaissance nobleman would need. Adam the II employed Balthasar Maggi and other Italian builders and had them create such beautiful spaces including the Spanish Wing, the Roundel Music Pavilion, great arcades and more. Small adaptations were made later but the overall architectural style has not shifted in time from the Renaissance style.  

Dobrovského 1/I, Jindřichův Hradec