The Fascinating History of Zbiroh Castle

Zbiroh Castle stands on a unique rock made of rare jasper stone. This site has served as a powerful fortress since the 12th century. It originally belonged to the Knights Templar before becoming a royal residence. Many legends suggest the jasper rock provides special energy to the castle grounds.

The castle earned its famous nickname because three different emperors lived here. Charles IV, Sigismund of Luxembourg, and Rudolf II all called Zbiroh their home. Each ruler added new architectural details to the massive structure. You can see these layers of history as you walk through the courtyards today.

In later years, the famous painter Alfons Mucha lived at the castle. He worked on his masterpiece, the Slav Epic, in the large Great Hall. The castle provided him with the perfect light and space for his art. You can still feel his creative influence throughout the chateau wing.

The castle also holds dark secrets from the Second World War. The Nazi SS used the site as a secret headquarters for many years. They chose this location because the jasper rock amplified their radio signals. Today, the Zbiroh Castle official site offers details on these historical periods.

What to Expect on Zbiroh Castle Tours

You should check the Zbiroh Castle opening hours and tours before you arrive. There are two main circuits available for visitors to explore. The first circuit focuses on the medieval castle and the deep well. The second circuit takes you through the luxury chateau rooms.

The castle well is one of the most impressive sights on the tour. It is the deepest well in Europe, reaching 163 meters into the rock. Guides often drop a piece of burning paper to show the depth. It is a thrilling moment that highlights the engineering of the past.

The chateau tour showcases the lifestyle of the high nobility. You will see grand furniture, beautiful tapestries, and historic weapons. The St. Lawrence Chapel is another highlight with its stunning ceiling paintings. These tours usually last about 60 to 90 minutes each.

• Adult tickets cost approximately 350 CZK for one tour circuit.
• Family tickets are available for a discounted price of 900 CZK.
• English language tours should be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
• The castle grounds are open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Dining at the Medieval Tavern

Eating at the castle tavern is a highlight for many visitors. The restaurant is called U Rudolfovy kratochvíle and offers a rustic atmosphere. You will find heavy wooden tables and flickering candlelight in the dining room. It feels like stepping back into the 16th century.

The menu features traditional Czech dishes that are hearty and delicious. You can check the Chateau Hotel Zbiroh restaurant menu and prices for current options. Popular choices include roasted duck with cabbage and local venison goulash. The portions are large and perfect for hungry travelers.

Waiters dress in period costumes to make the experience more authentic. They serve local beers and wines that pair well with the heavy meals. The tavern is often busy, so making a reservation is a smart idea. It is a great place to relax after your tour.

Prices at the tavern are reasonable for a high-end tourist attraction. A main course typically costs between 300 and 550 CZK in 2026. Soup and appetizers are priced around 100 to 150 CZK each. The quality of the food and the setting make it worth the cost.

Staying at the Chateau Hotel Zbiroh

For a truly royal experience, you can stay overnight at the castle. The Chateau Hotel Zbiroh offers luxury rooms in the historic wing. Each room is decorated with antique furniture and rich fabrics. You will feel like an emperor sleeping in these grand quarters.

The hotel includes access to a private wellness center for all guests. You can enjoy a swimming pool, sauna, and various massage treatments. This is the perfect way to unwind after exploring the Plzeň Region. The spa area is built into the ancient castle foundations.

Booking a room in advance is necessary, especially during the summer months. Prices for a standard double room start at 3,500 CZK per night. The royal suites are more expensive but offer much more space. Many couples choose this location for romantic weekend getaways.

Staying at the castle allows you to see the grounds after hours. You can walk through the English-style park when the crowds have left. The quiet atmosphere at night is very peaceful and magical. It is an experience you will remember for a long time.

How to Reach Zbiroh from Plzeň

Getting to the castle from Plzeň is very easy for most travelers. If you are driving, the trip takes about 30 minutes via the D5 highway. There is a large parking lot located near the main castle gate. Parking fees are usually around 50 CZK for the entire day.

You can also travel by train to the Zbiroh-zastávka station. This is one of the best castles near Plzeň by train for a day trip. The train ride from the main station in Plzeň takes 40 minutes. From the station, you must walk about 3 kilometers to the castle.

The walk from the train station goes through a beautiful forest. It is a gentle uphill climb that most people can manage easily. If you prefer not to walk, local taxis are sometimes available. You can also check the Visit Plzeň website for bus schedules.

Public buses also run from the central bus station in Plzeň. The bus stop in the village of Zbiroh is closer to the castle. This option is often cheaper than taking the train. However, the bus service is less frequent on the weekends.

Best Time for Visiting Zbiroh Castle

The best time for visiting Zbiroh Castle is during the late spring. May and June offer pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers in the park. The castle gardens are particularly beautiful during these months. You will find fewer crowds than in the peak of summer.

Autumn is another fantastic season to plan your visit to Zbiroh. The surrounding Křivoklát forest turns vibrant shades of orange and red. This creates a stunning backdrop for photos of the castle towers. The crisp air makes the walk from the train station very enjoyable.

Winter visits are possible but require some extra planning for travelers. The castle holds special Christmas markets and advent concerts in December. These events are very popular with local families and create a festive mood. Be sure to dress warmly as the stone halls can be chilly.

Summer is the busiest time with many weddings taking place on weekends. If you visit in July, try to arrive early in the morning. This helps you avoid the largest groups and the midday heat. Weekdays are generally much quieter than Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year.