Český Šternberk

Český Šternberk has been rising on a hill above the Sazava River for nearly 800 years. Most of the time, it belonged to and still belongs to the Sternberg family. If you want to see a Czech castle with impressive architecture, outstanding history, and unique interiors - Český Šternberk is a perfect choice.

How to Get to Český Šternberk Castle from Prague?

Cars

The most convenient way to reach Český Šternberk from Prague is by car, as the journey typically takes less than an hour. Once you arrive, you can park in a lot located 300 meters (0.186 miles) from the castle, with parking costing roughly 2 euros for the entire day. It's important to note that you'll need to walk up a hill to reach Český Šternberk, so wear comfortable shoes.

If you need to rent a car, you can find a suitable options at rentalcars.com

Two blue flags with yellow stars fluttering in the wind, positioned on a hilltop overlooking a small riverside town. The town lies along the Sázava River, surrounded by green hills and trees under a bright, partly cloudy sky.

Public Transport

You can reach Český Šternberk by public transport, which is a cost-effective solution. The tickets are priced between 2 and 4 euros. However, the journey takes approximately 2 hours and requires changing buses or trains. You can use the Lítačka app or the IDOS website to find a suitable connection to Český Šternberk train station or bus stop. The castle is only a 15-minute walk away from both.

Tours

Another option is to book a private tour or join a group trip. Organized tours often combine visiting Kutna Hora and Český Šternberk, which is a perfect solution for a day trip from Prague. Check out what GetYourGuide platform offers.

The Best Time to Visit Český Šternberk

From the beginning of May till the end of September, Český Šternberk is open for visitors every day except Monday. From October to April, the castle is open most weekends. It's better to check the castle's official website for up-to-date information on opening hours before your visit.

A section of a castle featuring a tall, round tower with a conical roof, set against a backdrop of greenery and a bright, partly cloudy sky. Trees and rolling hills can be seen in the distance.

Brief History of Český Šternberk

Český Šternberk was founded in the 13th century by Zdeslav of Divišov, a nobleman whose coat of arms featured an eight-pointed star. Thus, the name of the castle. It combines the German words "Stern" (star) and "Berg" (hill). Subsequently, the name Sternberg was adopted by Zdeslav and his descendants.

Perched on top of a steep hill with commanding views of the Sázava River, Český Šternberk was initially constructed as a stronghold to oversee trade routes and safeguard the nearby area. However, throughout the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous reconstructions, gradually evolving and transforming from a fortress into a comfortable noble residence.

A grand Knight Hall inside a castle, featuring ornate white stucco walls adorned with intricate carvings and coat of arms. Large portraits hang between the decorations, while a sparkling chandelier illuminates the room. Antique furniture, including armchairs and tables, is arranged on a patterned rug over a polished floor, giving the space an opulent atmosphere.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Jiří Sternberg modernized Český Šternberk significantly. Among other things, he installed a gravity water system and electric lighting. He also filled the rooms with stylish furnishings and valuable art collections while preserving the medieval castle's external character.

In 1949, following the rise of the communist regime, Český Šternberk was nationalized. However, Jiří Sternberg was appointed as the castle administrator. He worked and lived there until he passed away in 1965. In 1992, after the fall of Communism, Český Šternberk Castle was returned to the Sternberg family and still belongs to them.

Visiting Český Šternberk Castle

A photograph of a historical room in Český Šternberk Castle featuring a large portrait of Kaspar Maria Sternberg in an ornate frame. The portrait hangs on a wall with blue patterned wallpaper. Surrounding the central painting are smaller oval portraits. A round wooden table with a vase of pink flowers is positioned below the portrait.

The castle offers one tour route, which includes 15 richly furnished rooms. It starts in the Knights' Hall, where you will see the beautiful early Baroque stucco decoration. Then, it will take you to smaller salons, the library, and the large dining room. For example, you will have an opportunity to see the room dedicated to the co-founder of the National Museum, Kašpar Maria Sternberg. Throughout the tour, you'll be fascinated by the unique collection of graphic sheets from the Thirty Years' War, totaling 545 pieces.

The tours are available in Czech or English. You can purchase tickets for a specific time and language in advance through their reservation system. Additionally, at the ticket counter, you can obtain written information about the castle interiors in various languages, including English, German, French, Ukrainian, and Russian, so you can join the Czech tour and read about each room in your preferred language.

An ornate dining room inside a castle, featuring a long wooden table set with crystal candelabras and fine china. Large paintings hang on the walls, and tall, dark green curtains frame the windows, with sunlight illuminating the polished wooden floor.

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