Krakovec castle, West Bohemia Travel Guide

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Discover the ruins of Krakovec Castle, a 14th-century Gothic masterpiece where history and architecture blend in the heart of the Czech Republic.

Explore the majestic ruins of Krakovec Castle, a late Gothic architectural gem nestled in the Czech countryside. Built in the late 14th century, this castle, where Jan Hus once took refuge, offers a glimpse into the era of King Wenceslas IV and the Bohemian 'Beautiful Madonnas'.

A brief summary to Krakovec castle

Krakovec 4, Krakovec-Petrovice u Rakovníka, 270 35, CZ
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Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
Thursday 10 am-3 pm
Friday 10 am-3 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Krakovec castle.

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.
Check the castle's event calendar for poetry symposiums, theater performances, or religious services that may coincide with your visit.
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of the castle ruins and the surrounding Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area.
Consider visiting nearby Křivoklát Castle and the Skryje Ponds to extend your exploration of the region.

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Explore Krakovec castle on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Krakovec Castle via public transport, take a train from Plzeň to Rakovník. From Rakovník, a bus will take you to Krakovec-Petrovice. Check the bus schedule in advance. From the bus stop, it's a 1 km uphill walk to the castle through a wooded area. A single bus fare within Rakovník costs approximately 20 CZK.
Car

If driving from Plzeň, take the D5 highway towards Prague, then exit onto the E50 towards Rakovník. Follow the E50 until you reach Rakovník, then follow signs to Krakovec, about 12 km away. Parking is available 250m from the castle for 50 CZK. Limited parking closer to the entrance is available for those with reduced mobility.

Discover more about Krakovec castle

Krakovec Castle, located near Rakovník, is a captivating ruin that embodies the transition between a traditional castle and a more luxurious chateau. Constructed between 1381 and 1383 for Jíra of Roztoky, a favored courtier of King Wenceslas IV, it showcases late Gothic architecture with suppressed defensive features, emphasizing comfortable living and representation.This once grand residence holds historical significance as a refuge for the Czech reformer Jan Hus in 1414 before his departure for the Council of Constance. The castle's design included a two-part inner structure, featuring an entrance gate, a half-cylindrical tower, and a three-winged perimeter palace. The chapel, with its unique pentagonal presbytery, was among the castle's most remarkable spaces.While now a ruin due to a fire in 1783 and subsequent collapses, Krakovec Castle still allures visitors with its hand-hewn wooden bridge, a unique architectural element in Europe. The castle grounds occasionally host cultural events, including poetry symposiums and theater performances, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the remains of the palace, wine cellar, and admire the surrounding Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area.