Wonderful sgrafitto decoration, magnificent gables, elegant arcades, romantic gardens and a mysterious underground. These are just some of the reasons to visit the chateau in Litomyšl. This representative seat of the Pernštejn family is one of the most beautiful examples of the Renaissance style in Bohemia and is balm for the soul of all those who appreciate the purity of top quality architecture. All of these qualities have led to the chateau complex being included on the UNESCO world heritage list.
When touring the chateau, you will get to know its wealth of history, view the luxurious rooms, the permanent exhibition of pianos and descend into the cellars, where the characteristic statues of one of the greatest Czech sculptors of the 20th century, Olbram Zoubek, await you. You can also give yourself a treat by climbing the chateau tower, from where a beautiful view opens out over the surrounding area. Don’t forget to also have a look at the sgrafitto “envelope” decoration on the walls of the chateau. You will be surprised to discover that each of the 8,000 pictures is different.
Meet a film star!
Are you a fan of classic films? Then you will certainly be pleased to learn that you can see the beautiful chandelier, which was used during filming of the Oscar-winning film Amadeus by the world famous director Miloš Forman, in one of the halls of the Litomyšl Chateau.
The birthplace of a gifted composer
Onwards to the brewery! Not to taste the popular frothy nectar, but to uncover the story of one of the most famous composers of the 19th century. This is to say that it was precisely in the chateau brewery that Bedřich Smetana was born in 1824. By a twist of fate, Bedřich was his parents’ 11th child and also their first son. People tell to this very day how his happy father had barrels of beer rolled out into the courtyard so that the people of the town could share in his happiness.
Enjoy the garden with all your senses
Would you like to have a rest for a moment from all of that aristocratic beauty? Then all you need do is take a walk through the wonderful French park surrounding the chateau. Why not sit down in the soft grass and have a picnic with your friends! Baroque statues of Greek gods and the Empire style garden house with pictures of Egyptian landscapes will keep you company. The park also includes an English garden, in which the Smetana’s Litomyšl music festival is held every year.
The chateau is however only a small taste of what is on offer in this East Bohemian town with a strong genius loci. Set out into its picturesque lanes and enjoy Litomyšl!