Explore Europe’s Castles and Chateaus During Heritage Days!

The history of European Heritage Days (EHD) started in 1984 in France. This initiative aims to promote awareness of cultural and historical heritage on both European and global scales, attracting many supporters along the way. The Czech Republic has been part of EHD since 1991. EHD works to unite various cultures, enhance recognition of the history and traditions of each country, Europe, and beyond. It focuses on preserving cultural monuments and respecting heritage broadly. Every September, during this celebration, visitors are invited into areas that are usually off-limits to the public, and guided tours explore topics like architecture and technical aspects. To appeal to a wider audience, events like concerts and theater performances are also organized. Each year, sites managed by the National Heritage Institute offer exciting programs for EHD, along with other local buildings that welcome visitors. So, what can you expect this year?

Central Bohemia Region

Růžkovy Lhotice Chateau 6 – 7 September
Růžkovy Lhotice Chateau will welcome visitors from 9 am to 12 noon and again from 1 pm to 4 pm. You can see the “Vltava in Changes” exhibition that commemorates two anniversaries. The inside of the chateau is also worth exploring, featuring an exhibition on musicians called “Land of Tones.” The lovely garden next to it invites you to relax and stroll around.

Vlašim Castle – Museum of Podblanicko 6-7 Sept.

Originally a medieval structure mentioned as far back as 1318, Vlašim Castle became home to the museum in 1988. Visitors can access the castle for a reduced price, which includes open exhibitions and a showcase of paintings from artists Iva and Vít Švajcra.

Hrádek Kutná Hora 19 – 21.

This Gothic two-story castle features a tower and two bay windows. Inside, you’ll find rooms with beautiful cross-rib vaults, a cabin with a decorated ceiling, and a hall showcasing a Renaissance ceiling. On September 19 at 5 pm, join a guided tour of the first circuit. The castle’s Gothic cellars will also be accessible for special visits on September 20 and 21.

Kolín Castle 10. 9.

You can explore the chapel of the chateau freely during individual tours from 2 to 6 pm. At 4 pm, there will be a guided tour of castle grounds that are usually off-limits.

Pilsen Region

Josef Hlávka Chateau Lužany 13-14 and 20-21 September
This chateau is linked to the renowned Czech benefactor, architect, and builder Josef Hlávka, who was the creator of many esteemed institutions in Czechia. The monument will be accessible for guided tours.

Světce Tachov riding hall 13.9.

In Světec, you can visit the remains of a former Paulan monastery and ruins of a castle along with a riding hall established by Prince Windischgrätz in 1861. Special costume tours will be offered within the riding hall during European Heritage Days.

Tachov Castle 13. 9.

Here, you can explore exhibitions on history alongside a modern gallery. Tachov Castle was built on the site of an old medieval fortress, and its current classicist style was established when Josef Mikuláš Windischgrätz renovated it in the late 18th century. During EHD, you can view a permanent exhibition about the history of Tachov and tour the castle chambers.

Spálené Poříčí Castle 14.

Built in 1617 by Adam Vratislav of Mitrovice on the site of a prior fortress, this castle features three wings along with unique sandstone portals and elegant sgraffito decoration. Visitors are invited to explore the museum exhibitions for free throughout the day.

Poběžovice Castle and Chateau 14. 9.

The castle has been under gradual restoration since 1990, and visitors can freely access its exhibitions on this day. The renovations revealed stunning paintings that had been hidden beneath the plaster.

Karlovy Vary Region

Cheb Castle – imperial phallic 12.9.

The Imperial Palace, constructed in the latter part of the 12th century, stands on the site of an earlier Slavic fortress. You can enter this historical monument for free.

Toužim Castle 6. – 7., 13. – 14. 9.

With a guide, you can visit areas of the castle that are usually off-limits. Please be careful, as some areas may pose risks. The cellars, the attic, and parts of the Baroque section will be open for viewing. Admission is voluntary.

South Bohemia Region

State Chateau Třeboň 6-7 and 13-14 September

The Renaissance chateau, associated with the Rožmberks, Švamberks, and Schwarzenbergs, features a large courtyard and is surrounded by a beautiful English park. This year, visitors can participate in guided tours of the garden wing, previously managed by the State Regional Archives until December 31, 2024. Explore the elegant rooms that once belonged to the Schwarzenberg royal family.
Although these rooms are still awaiting furnishings and restoration, you’ll be able to admire original wallpaper, paintings, curtains, shutters, and stoves.

Sobeslav Castle 6. 9.

During the EHD, you can explore the library in the castle palace, the cellar with its fridge, and the castle tower. A vibrant cultural program featuring Soběslav festivities will be set up in the castle courtyard and nearby park.

Dačice Castle 13. – 14.9.

Visit the City Museum and Gallery located in the south wing of the Dačice State Chateau. You are welcome to explore this monument for a voluntary admission fee.

Ústí region

Střekov Castle in Ústí 1.-30 .9.

This castle was originally built to oversee the nearby waterway and to collect customs duties. A significant year for the castle is 1563 when it became the property of the Lobkowicz family. While the monument has a standard entry fee, there are special events planned, such as a “Fairy Tale Sunday” on September 27.

Nový Hrad Castle 13 .9.

The Baroque castle built in the 16th century will be open for a reduced entrance fee. Organized tours will be available throughout the premises.

Kadaň Castle 13-14 September.

Visitors can delve into the history of Kadaň Castle through its exhibitions, which are free to attend.

State Chateau Velké Březno 13-14 September.

This chateau was built in the late Empire style by Count Karel Chotek between 1842 and 1845. While the monument usually has a standard admission fee, there will be special events featuring costumed scenes linked to the last coronation in Bohemia.

Chateau Krásné Březno 3, 10, 17, 24 9.

The first written mention of this chateau dates back to a document by Prince Spytihnev II from 1057. The monument will be open for free on September 12, from 10:00 to 16:00.

Trmice Castle 7. and 14. 9.

Built between 1856 and 1863 in a Neo-Gothic Tudor style by the prominent Nostic family, this monument has a regular admission fee but will feature special events, including guided tours that start at 10:00, 13:00, and 15:00, as well as exhibitions of model railways.

Roudnice nad Labem Castle 6. 9.

Entry to this monument is free, with guided tours occurring at 10:30, 12:30, and 14:30. Due to limited space, a free ticket is necessary, available from the Podřipsko Information and Transport Centre (Arnoštova 88, Roudnice nad Labem).

Liberec Region

Liberec Castle 13. 9.

This monument will be open without admission charges, with the program details still being organized.

State Chateau Lemberk 13.

This weekend, the tower and Breda Garden along with its summer house will be open for explorations. You can either visit the garden independently or join guided tours at 11.00 and 14.00.

Wallenstein Castle 6. 9.

In celebration of European Heritage Days, an Organ Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, September 6 (from 11:00 to 15:00). Through a diverse music program featuring organ music, the castle will provide an exceptional experience for visitors.

Hradec Králové Region

State Chateau Náchod 20. 9.

Want to discover Náchod Castle in a unique way? Join tours with the newly appointed castellan, Mgr. Petr Ťažký, who will showcase the castle’s history, architecture, and notable residents in a fresh perspective, leading you through areas usually kept off-limits. Reservations are required!

Opočno State Castle 13.

Attend a talk by historian and author Miloš Hořejš at 5 pm in the castle’s table room. The lecture will focus on the Colloredo-Mannsfeld family, who significantly influenced the Habsburg Monarchy and Czech lands, excelling in military, diplomacy, and other areas, while their name remains linked to several important noble estates, including Opočno. It will provide insights into both the family’s history and the broader context of aristocratic culture in Central Europe.

Pardubice Region

State Chateau Litomyšl

For EHD, special tours will be available in normally off-limits sections. These details will be announced soon.

State Chateau Slatiňany 14.

Beginning at 12:30 p.m., you’re invited to a garden festival that recreates the atmosphere of the turn of the 19th and 20th century, featuring members of the Auersperg family in period clothing—prepare for an enjoyable experience!

Highlands

Žďár nad Sázavou Castle 1. – 30. 9.

The monument will be open to visitors at regular admission prices and will feature additional events.

South Moravian Region

Lomnice Castle 13. 9.

Entry is free. Visitors can explore the “Serényiová na Moravě” exhibition in the chateau arcades, and guided tours of the Chapel of St. Francis will be held at 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm. Starting at 1 p.m., there will be craft workshops for both adults and children (coin minting, gilding, casting, woodwork, face painting, etc.); a drama performance by the Lomnice Primary School’s theater club; a dance show by the LOTA group; and a concert featuring “Sea of Days” and “Slehni mech.”

Olomouc Region

Helfštýn Castle 14. 9.

Founded after 1312, this castle is characterized by its large fortress appearance, including six gates, numerous towers, and defensive structures. On EHD, admission to the castle grounds is free all day.

Dřevohostice Castle and the Firefighters’ Museum in the forecourt of the castle

This area originally featured a fortified layout surrounded by a moat. The castle also houses the Firefighters’ Museum containing unique exhibits. Visitors can explore the grounds without charge.

Lipník nad Bečvou 13.9.

Entry is free. From 11 am to 4 pm, staff from the Konírna Gallery will be present to provide information, distribute leaflets, and promote accompanying events. Visitors can also view an exhibition of paintings by Leipzig artist Jan Hovora at the Konírna Gallery.

Renaissance fortress of Christopher the Elder Huberck of Belnsdorf – Nemile u Zábřehu 20.9.

The monument is accessible with a voluntary admission fee from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 16:00. You’ll have the chance to explore the open section of the fortress, while the other half remains privately inhabited.

Zlín Region

Uherský Ostroh Castle 13. 9.

You can take part in a unique tour around the underground or follow a historical theme tour to the castle tower.

Moravian-Silesian Region

Štramberk Castle with the Trúba Tower 6. – 7. 9.

These are the ruins of a Saxon-Hessian castle dating back to the 13th century. The site will be available for visitors free of charge.

Museum of Beskydy Frýdek-Místek 7. 9.

The Museum of Beskydy Frýdek-Místek, part of the Moravian-Silesian Region’s organizations, is located in Frýdek Castle. On Sunday, September 7, 2025, permanent and temporary exhibitions will be open for free from 10:00 to 17:00.