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Cuknštejn Fortress: A Medieval Marvel

Explore Cuknštejn Fortress: A stunning medieval landmark offering breathtaking views and a rich history in the South Bohemian countryside.

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Cuknštejn Fortress, near Nové Hrady, is a remarkably preserved late Gothic fortress dating back to the end of the 15th century. A rare transition between a feudal fortress and a manor castle, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into Czech history.

A brief summary to Cuknštejn fortress

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the fortress can be uneven and hilly.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photographs.
  • Check local schedules for guided tours to gain deeper insights into the fortress's history.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to Nové Hrady in South Bohemia. From Nové Hrady, take road 154 towards Trhové Sviny. After approximately 4 km, look for signs to Cuknštejn Fortress, located in the Údolí area. Parking is available near the fortress. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Cuknštejn Fortress via public transport, take a train or bus to České Budějovice, then transfer to a regional train or bus to Nové Hrady. From Nové Hrady, you can walk (approximately 4 km, 1 hour) or take a taxi to the fortress. Check local bus schedules for variations. A taxi from Nové Hrady to Cuknštejn Fortress typically costs around 150-250 CZK.

  • Walking

    If you are in Nové Hrady, you can walk to Cuknštejn Fortress from the town center. Head southeast on Hlavní street and follow the signs for Trhové Sviny. The walk is approximately 4 km and takes about 1 hour. Enjoy the scenery along the way. There are no costs involved.

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Discover more about Cuknštejn fortress

Nestled in the picturesque South Bohemian landscape near Nové Hrady, Cuknštejn Fortress stands as a testament to medieval architecture. This late Gothic fortress, dating back to the end of the 15th century, is one of the best-preserved lordly residences in the Czech lands. It represents a unique transition between a feudal fortress and a more comfortable manor castle. Originally built around 1488-1491, Cuknštejn has seen its share of owners, including Oldřich Pouzar, a high-ranking official at Prague Castle. The Buquoy family owned it for an extended period, using it to house employees until 1945. The fortress features an octagonal tower, which encloses a small yard with residential buildings. A partially filled-in moat surrounds the structure, which once had a wooden drawbridge. In recent years, Cuknštejn has gained recognition as a filming location for Czech fairy tales and TV series. Today, the fortress is privately owned and undergoing restoration, with efforts made to preserve its original construction methods. Visitors can explore the grounds and appreciate the architecture, including a stone gallery, saddle portals, and Gothic windows. While visiting, take note of the chapel with Gothic frescoes discovered during the restoration. Though smaller than classic manor castles, Cuknštejn is more spacious and refined than typical 14th-century fortresses.

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