Český Šternberk Castle: A Gothic Jewel

Český Šternberk Castle, often called the "Pearl of Posázaví", is a remarkable example of a Gothic castle that has remained in the hands of the Sternberg family since its founding in 1241. Zdeslav of Divišov, the castle's founder, named it after his coat of arms, incorporating the German words for star (Stern) and mountain (Berg). Over the centuries, the castle has undergone several renovations, blending its original Gothic architecture with Baroque and Rococo styles. The castle's defenses were bolstered in the late Gothic period, and in the 17th century, extensive Baroque renovations transformed the interior into a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space. Today, visitors can explore fifteen richly furnished rooms, each reflecting different historical periods and showcasing the Sternberg family's lifestyle. Highlights of a visit include the Knights' Hall with its early Baroque stucco decorations, various salons, and the impressive collection of over 500 copper engravings depicting the Thirty Years' War. The castle also boasts a former bastion, known as the "hunger tower", which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Posázaví landscape. Český Šternberk Castle offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the legacy of one of Bohemia's most prominent noble families.