A hush falls upon the world as we approach the grand gates. This, my friends, is Zámék Ctěnice, a place seemingly untouched by time. Although it stands before us today in all its glory, Zámék Ctěnice has seen its share of transformations. It started life as a humble Gothic fortress, keeping watch over the surrounding lands. Then, in the 1550s, Mikuláš Harant of Harasov decided the fortress deserved an upgrade. He transformed it into a beautiful Renaissance chateau, a testament to his wealth and taste. The 18th century brought another wave of change, as the Zámék Ctěnice was reshaped into its current classicist form. But the story doesn’t end there. Imagine the year 1945: the echoes of war are fading, and Zámék Ctěnice finds itself caught in the tides of history. Sadly, it fell into disrepair, a sleeping beauty waiting for her prince. It wasn’t until 1993 that the City of Prague, recognizing its historical significance, took it under its wing. The once-neglected Zámék Ctěnice was lovingly restored to its former glory. Today, it stands as a reminder of bygone eras, welcoming visitors with open arms.
Dolní Břežany
Could this grand Renaissance castle have once been a humble medieval fortress? It’s true! This is Dolní Břežany, dominated by