Zámek Buštěhrad

Hidden amidst the charming town of Buštěhrad stands Zámek Buštěhrad, a baroque masterpiece with a story as intricate as its architecture. It’s not the first grand structure to grace this land. In fact, its very existence is intertwined with the demise of a much older, more formidable predecessor. The original Buštěhrad Castle, a medieval giant, met an unfortunate end in 1632. It fell victim not to invading armies, but to disgruntled locals who set it ablaze during the Thirty Years’ War. Anna Marie Franziska, Princess of Saxe-Lauenburg, inherited the estate and decided a new residence was in order. So, between 1699 and 1705, she commissioned the construction of Zámek Buštěhrad. Interestingly, the stones of the ruined castle were recycled, quite literally giving the new palace a foundation built on the ashes of the old. This initial structure formed the central section of the palace we see today. The palace wasn’t destined to remain untouched. Between 1747 and 1754, under the ownership of Clement Francis of Bavaria, Zámek Buštěhrad underwent a significant expansion. The renowned architect Kilian Ignaz Dientzenhofer contributed to the redesign, extending the building on both sides and solidifying its baroque grandeur. Further renovations between 1814 and 1816 added the east and west wings, creating the horseshoe shape open to the south. During this period, the Empire-style Chapel of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross was built in the west wing. It was later expanded southward in 1897. Zámek Buštěhrad welcomed an unexpected resident in 1832. Exiled French King Charles X sought refuge here, making it his summer residence until 1836. During his stay, the famous paleontologist Joachim Barrande served as a tutor at the palace. A fascinating historical footnote to be sure. The palace became state property in 1918, serving various purposes over the years, from an orphanage to offices, a school, and even apartments. Sadly, after 1948, Zámek Buštěhrad fell into disrepair. Despite changing hands several times after the 1989 revolution, it continued to deteriorate until the town of Buštěhrad reacquired it in 2003. Though the Central Bohemian Region briefly took ownership with plans for extensive renovations, these were halted due to a corruption scandal. Finally, in 2018, Zámek Buštěhrad was returned to the town, marking a new chapter in its long and storied history. Today, you can visit the town’s information center located within the palace walls. This grand building stands as a testament to resilience, a phoenix risen from the ashes, quietly echoing tales of royalty, exile, and the enduring spirit of Buštěhrad.