Křivoklát is one of the oldest and most important castles of Bohemian princes and kings.Dating to the 12th century, the huge royal castle was constructed during the reign of Přemysl Otakar II, was substantially rebuilt by Wenceslas (Václav) IV and finally completed in a grand manner by Vladislaus Jagello.
Křivoklát was severely damaged by fire several times. It became a feared prison and its significance suffered a steep decline.It was saved in the 19th century thanks to the Romantic interest in monuments and, in particular, by its contemporary owners, the Fürstenbergs, who held it until 1929.
There is stunning chapel, the Royal and Knight Halls with an exhibition of Gothic painting and scuplture, a library containing about 52,000 volumes, the rich Fürstenberg museum and gallery and the notorious prison and torture chambers complete with torture instruments.The massive tower that contains hunting collections offers a lovely view of the surrounding landscape. A walk along the castle walls is a pleasant experience alike.Once there, it is possible to visit the HuderkaTower with a black kitchen and lookout gallery.
For more information: http://www.krivoklat.cz/