Discover the Enchantment of Old England at Žleby Castle
In the later part of the 13th century, a Gothic castle was built overlooking the river Doubrava near Čáslav, known as the castle of the Lords of Lichtenburg, which was called Troughs. Later, it was purchased along with the estate by Charles IV, and until the Hussite wars, it remained a royal residence.
Starting in 1754, the Auersperg family made Žleby their home, holding onto the castle until the end of the Second World War. Members of this historic Tyrolean family helped shape the castle into what we see today. Originally a Gothic structure, it underwent numerous changes, culminating in the transformation by Vincenc Karel Auersperg, who gave it a modern, romantic flair in the English neo-Gothic style. The interiors are richly furnished, often designed according to English standards. During your visit, you can explore a large collection of weapons, antiques, glassware, and furniture. You can also see a well-equipped castle kitchen and one of the few remaining Baroque theaters. Climbing the castle tower gives you a wonderful view of the surrounding landscape, which features a large English-style park.
Adjacent to the castle park is the Žleby Game Reserve, known for its rare breeding of white deer, as well as raptors, owls, martens, and various falconry.
The sightseeing routes of Žleby Castle showcase some significant exhibits from the collections. Some personal belongings of the castle’s former owners have been restored and are on display for the first time. The rooms are adorned with items such as historic beds complete with period textiles, beautifully crafted secretaries and desks, exquisite sets of writing and office tools, as well as ladies’ and men’s grooming sets, photographs, medallions, drawings, and watercolor pieces depicting the noble Auersperg family. The route also includes a reconstruction of the original castellan’s office, which gives visitors a glimpse into the time of the First Republic.
