Karlova Koruna Chateau

The castle stands on the site of the original fortress, which received a new fortification at the beginning of the 16th century, which was in line with the Renaissance trends of the time. At the beginning of the 17th century, it was acquired by the Kinský family. They also decided to build the castle as their representative seat. Count František Ferdinand Kinský invited the Italian architect Giovanni Santini Aichel to the construction. The construction took place in the years 1721 - 1723. Three one-storey wings with a square floor plan are connected to the central two-storey cylinder. The whole complex is carried in the Baroque style. It was named in honor of the coronation of Emperor Charles VI, who visited the castle just completed. In 1943 there was a big fire and the castle was severely damaged. After 1948, the chateau was taken over by the state, and in 1992 restitution took place and Charles's Crown returned to the Kinský family. The castle exposition, which concerns the history of the Kinský family and horse breeding, has been restored here. Horse breeding is very connected with the Kinský family, they bred a new breed, they even stood at the birth of the Great Pardubice.

The Ostrov stud farm was also built as part of the chateau. In 2010 it underwent extensive reconstruction and those interested can not only try horseback riding, show jumping training, but also horse polo. There are two polo fields.

A Baroque chapel of the Virgin Mary of the Seven Sorrows was built near the chateau in the 1920s, again according to Santini's project. Until 1935, it served the nobility as a family tomb, but during the reconstruction in the 1960s, the sacristy, the oratory and the western supporting pillars were accidentally demolished.

In summer you can visit the swimming pool in Chlumec nad Cidlinou, which is completely renovated. In the area you can use the beach volleyball court, petanque court, play Russian skittles. Cottages or a caravan park are used for sleeping.

Author: Marie Bukovinská