Gardens and Castle at Kroměříž
Kroměříž, Czechia
12.04.2023
The Gardens and Castle of Kroměříž - A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Heart of Czech Republic
Welcome to Kroměříž, a charming town located in the heart of the Czech Republic. Known for its beautiful gardens and majestic castle, Kroměříž has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. This historic town is a treasure trove of cultural and architectural gems, and it is a must-visit destination for any history or nature lover.
The centerpiece of the town is the Kroměříž Castle, a stunning Baroque residence that was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was originally a Gothic castle, but it was transformed into a magnificent palace by the bishops of Olomouc. The castle boasts beautiful frescoes, intricate stucco work, and a rich collection of artwork and historic artifacts. It also has a beautiful library with over 33,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and incunabula.
But the true highlight of the castle is its gardens. The Kroměříž gardens are a perfect blend of French and English styles and cover an area of 64 hectares. The gardens feature a variety of trees, flowers, and exotic plants, as well as beautiful fountains, statues, and pavilions. The most famous part of the gardens is the Pleasure Garden, which was used for leisure activities and outdoor concerts. The castle and gardens have been used as a filming location for several movies, including the popular TV series "The Tudors."
The history of Kroměříž dates back to the 11th century when it was founded as a fortified settlement. It became an important cultural and religious center under the rule of the bishops of Olomouc, who built the castle and gardens. It also served as the summer residence of the bishops, who hosted many important guests, such as kings and emperors, in the castle.
Today, the Kroměříž Castle and Gardens are open to the public, and visitors can explore the rich history and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle also hosts many cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances, making it a lively and vibrant destination throughout the year.
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Kroměříž stands on the site of an earlier ford across the River Morava, at the foot of the Chriby mountain range which dominates the central part of Moravia. The gardens and castle of Kroměříž are an exceptionally complete and well-preserved example of a European Baroque princely residence and its gardens.
Kroměříž Castle (Czech: Zámek Kroměříž or Arcibiskupský zámek, German: Schloss Kremsier) is a castle in Kroměříž in the Czech Republic. It used to be the principal residence of the bishops and (from 1777) archbishops of Olomouc. UNESCO listed the gardens and castle as a World Heritage Site in 1998 because of its exceptionally well-preserved and outstanding Baroque gardens.
