Karlstejn castle and a tourist!
The visit to Castle Karlštejn today reminded me of Neuschwanstein, except that this castle is a lot larger, older and has ‘real’ historical significance.
The castle was built in 1348 by Charles IV (Czech King and Roman Emperor) as a place for safekeeping of the royal treasures, especially Charles’s collection of holy relics and the coronation jewels of the Roman Empire.
We took the ‘2nd’ tour with an English speaking guide, it was excellent because there were only 6 visitors and the guide. To assist with conservation visitor numbers are restricted but this only makes the tour more exclusive and provides a feeling that you are really seeing something special.
The Czech Country Side near Karlstejn
Karlštejn is built on many levels
Many of the approaches to Karlštejn are extremely steep
A Skoda parked in the courtyard to remind you which country you’re in
This castle looks great! Have to visit it some day.
Glad you liked it. Check out my picture from Karlštejn at http://info.cetra.com/blog/bid/33755/Translating-Prohibited-Part-II. Cheers, Jiri