Konopiště Castle: A Habsburg Legacy
Discover the majestic Konopiště Castle, a historic chateau with stunning architecture, rose gardens, and a rich legacy tied to Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
Konopiště Castle, located near Benešov, is a captivating destination with a blend of medieval strength and baroque elegance. Founded in 1294 by Bishop Tobias of Benešov, the castle was designed as a Gothic fortress inspired by French castles, complete with cylindrical towers and a drawbridge. Over the centuries, Konopiště transformed from a defensive stronghold to a luxurious residence. The Šternberk family modernized it in the Renaissance style, while the Vrtba family added Baroque enhancements in the 18th century. However, the castle is most renowned as the home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, whose assassination in Sarajevo ignited World War I. In 1887, Franz Ferdinand purchased Konopiště and remodeled it, incorporating advanced features like central heating and electric lights. He filled the castle with art collections, hunting trophies, and an extensive armory. Visitors can explore these collections, wander through the rose garden with its roaming peacocks, and discover the castle's fascinating history through guided tours. The castle also features a bear enclosure, home to a Himalayan bear.
Local tips
- Visit the Rose Garden behind the castle for a variety of roses and freely roaming peacocks.
- Purchase tickets online or on the spot for one of the guided tours to explore the castle interiors.
- During the summer, take the Ekovláček (eco train) from Benešov train station to the castle.
- Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and special events.
- Consider Route 3, the most popular tour, which visits the private apartments of Franz Ferdinand d'Este's family. Reservations are required in advance.
A brief summary to The Konopiste Castle
- The Konopiste Castle, Konopiště 1, Konopiště, 256 01, CZ
- +420317721366
- Visit website
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Getting There
-
Train & Walking
From Prague, take a train to Benešov u Prahy. Fast trains (R17) take about 40 minutes, while slower trains (S9) take about an hour; tickets cost around 100 CZK. From Benešov train station, walk to Konopiště Castle in approximately 20-30 minutes (2.5 km). Follow the well-marked path, which is mostly flat. Alternatively, during the spring, summer, and fall, take the Ekovláček (eco train) from the train station to the castle. Cost: Train ticket (Prague to Benešov) approximately 100 CZK. Ekovláček (if available) fare is additional.
-
Bus & Walking
From Prague, take bus 401 or 406 from Roztyly metro station (Line C) to Benešov. The bus journey takes 30-50 minutes and costs approximately 3 EUR. From the Benešov bus station, you can take a local bus to the 'Benešov, Konopiště' stop, or walk to the castle in about 40 minutes (2.4 km). Cost: Bus ticket (Prague to Benešov) approximately 3 EUR. Local bus (if used) fare is additional.
-
Driving
Drive south from Prague on the E55, following signs for Benešov and Konopiště. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once in Benešov, follow the signs to Konopiště Castle. Parking is available in a paid parking lot about 600 meters from the castle. Cost: Parking fee approximately 60 CZK.
