Hranice Château and its unique glass-roofed courtyard

The unique courtyard of this Renaissance château covered with a glass ceiling will astonish not only lovers of historical buildings.

The combination of history and delicate modern restoration work of Hranice Château will surprise more than a few visitors. You can visit a museum with a permanent exhibition of historical weapons and a unique model depicting the centre of Hranice in the 18th century. The château also houses an information centre with bike and scooter hire, a cosy café with outdoor seating in the château moat, and a gallery of fine art.

Other parts of the château are used as offices for the town authorities. Tours of the château are held several times a year on special occasions, when visitors can view a dungeon, state rooms with lavish stucco decorations, and a late Gothic garderobe. Visitors also have chance to climb the château tower.

A Gothic fortress stood on the site of today’s château in the 14th century, and it was mentioned as the castle of the Lords of Cimburk from 1468. From the 15th to the early 17th century, the building gradually became converted into a château, eventually assuming its present form, which is a unique specimen of the late Renaissance in Moravia. The château was owned by several noble families – the Pernstein family owned the building for the longest time, before it later passed into the possession of the Dietrichstein family. After 1945, the château suffered extensive damage, which was repaired by restoration work between 1996 and 1998. The courtyard was covered with a roof, the walled arcades were opened and the château became an important heritage site.

The château grounds also include an adjacent garden with a fountain, a children’s play area, and pleasant seating beneath the historical walls. The garden’s relaxation area provides an extraordinary view of Hranice and nearby Helfštýn Castle.