View of Prague Castle from the Vltava River
During the winter, 11 sites remain open on a permanent basis, including, for example, the world-famous castles of Český Krumlov, Hluboká nad Vltavou, or Sychrov. A novelty this year is also the possibility of year-round visits even in winter to Lednice Castle in South Moravia. Tourists can visit another 10% of Czech castles and fortresses by prior arrangement – just call the caretaker.
This year, Czech castles and fortresses were particularly popular – the total number of visitors by October 31 reached 4.6 million people, half a million more than the final result for the whole of last year. Many sites offer newly restored interiors, made possible by increased revenues during the summer season.
The start of the winter season coincides with the pre-Christmas period, and the prepared programs at Czech castles and fortresses reflect this. The programs have not only an artistic and historical aspect. "For example, at Žleby Castle, a comprehensive tour of the premises is offered, including the castle kitchen with the opportunity to sample dishes that will be prepared there during the pre-Christmas period. These are traditional dishes, kolaches, cookies. At this time, the castle will be literally steeped in aromas. Come and see and taste!" urges Petr Fedor, head of the Historic Sites Management Section.
By the end of 2014, two major events will also take place, as announced by the Director General of the Monuments Protection Authority, Naděžda Goryčková: "First, an exhibition titled 'Castles Opened and Praised' will open. The vernissage will be held at the Manes of Prague on December 18. This is a joint project with the Prague Castle Administration, which precedes the main theme of the upcoming season – 'Castle Inventory'. We want to tell not only the 25-year post-revolutionary history of castle and fortress protection, but also the thousand-year history of the origin of this cultural heritage of our people."
"At the same time, we will gather in Prague Castle all the most precious rarities from the collections of Czech and Moravian castles and fortresses," adds exhibition curator Petr Pavel. Visitors can expect 600 exhibits from all over the republic.
"The successful project 'Forgotten Castles' will certainly continue in the coming year. The second major event of the end of this year will be the opening to the public of the restored Brno villa 'Šťastný'. Its restoration was carried out to create a Methodological Center for Monuments of Modern Architecture, but at the same time, its premises will be accessible for public viewing. The grand opening will take place on December 13 of this year," emphasizes the Director General of the Monuments Protection Authority, Naděžda Goryčková.
Anton Kaymakov.
Radio Prague