Discover the Reopened Chapel of the Holy Cross at Karlštejn Castle

Starting in May, tours of the Chapel of the Holy Cross will once again be available at Karlštejn Castle. The guided tour will take you through the east wing of the Imperial Palace, ascend the upper level of the Marian Towers, and explore the Great Tower. This experience allows visitors to see the historically most significant parts of Karlštejn Castle, which hold a unique position in world heritage.

Among the highlights of this tour are: the Small Castle Picture Gallery, featuring an impressive collection of prints; the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary; the Chapel of St. Catherine; the old sacristy; the suspension bridge tower; the Castle Lapidarium; the Great Picture Gallery; the study of architect Josef Mocker; the tower staircase boasting 14th-century murals; and the renowned Chapel of the Holy Cross.

Given the extensive and complex themes covered in Circle II (including Christianity, symbolism, spirituality, faith, and murals), we advise against visits for children under 7 years of age, as this content is not tailored for them, and the tour duration may be too lengthy. All tours are guided only.

The general admission fee for the tour is 640 crowns, and it is available every day in May, except Mondays, from 10:05 a.m. to 4:35 p.m..

Karlštejn Castle: A Gothic Masterpiece

Karlštejn Castle, located southwest of Prague, is one of the Czech Republic’s most iconic Gothic fortresses. Built in the mid-14th century by Emperor Charles IV, it was originally intended to safeguard the Imperial Regalia and the Bohemian crown jewels.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross

• Construction & Patron
  Commissioned by Emperor Charles IV, this exquisite chapel showcases the height of medieval craftsmanship.

• Reopening
  After three years of careful renovation, the Chapel of the Holy Cross reopened in May 2025, revealing areas previously off-limits to visitors.

Artistic Treasures

• Gothic Paintings
  Inside the chapel you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Gothic panel paintings by a single workshop, masterfully executed under one artist’s direction.

• Golden Belt
  A stunning ceremonial belt studded with polished semi-precious stones forms a central decorative element.

• Notable Artists
  Emperor Charles IV also engaged renowned masters Matthias of Arras and Petr Parléř to contribute additional works throughout the castle complex.

Renovation Highlights

• Newly Accessible Areas
  Following a three-year restoration, visitors can now explore previously closed rooms and corridors.

• Preserved Details
  Marvel at original carpentry, intricately carved stonework, and the freshly restored southern terrace—offering panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Visiting Today

• Location
  Just a short drive southwest of Prague, Karlštejn makes for an ideal day trip.

• What to See

  1. The restored Chapel of the Holy Cross

  2. Gothic halls and private chambers

  3. The southern terrace vista

  4. On-site exhibitions about the castle’s history and restoration process