Středočeský kraj Karlštejn The Gothic castle was founded by the Czech king and Holy Roman emperor Karel IV. to safekeep the imperial coronation regalia and holy relics. The current look of the castle was achieved by a 19th century reconstruction. The guided tours lead you through the holy, state and private rooms and up the Great Tower to admire the view. The castle has the largest portrait gallery of Czech rulers and a wholy unique 14th century interior decorations. The most famous is the Chapel of the Holly Rood with a ceiling covered by gilded decorations made to evoke the sky and its walls encrusted with semi-precious stones and 129 Gothic panel paintings. Karlštejn is opened year round and hosts several regular celebrations – the Royal Parade from Prague, the wine harvest festival and the Advent celebrations. +420 311 681 695 karlstejn@npu.cz www.hrad-karlstejn.cz