The castle features a living tradition of keeping brown bears in the moat, a practice documented as far back as the 16th century.
The castle was heavily renovated by Ottavio Piccolomini in the 17th century, transforming it into a luxurious Baroque residence.
The defensive structure was originally established by Hron of Náchod to secure a mountain pass along the trade route into Silesia.
It houses a rare collection of 17th-century Flemish tapestries depicting biblical and mythological scenes.
The castle grounds include a remnant of the medieval fortifications, including the high 'hláska' tower.
The last aristocratic owners, the Schaumburg-Lippe family, held the property until the end of World War II.
Portions of the interior wall paintings date back to the late Renaissance period.
Náchod Castle is a historical fortress positioned on a strategic ridge overlooking the town of Náchod in the Hradec Králové Region. Originally founded as a Gothic castle in the mid-13th century, it underwent extensive Renaissance and Baroque reconstructions. The site is noted for its collection of tapestries and its unique position near the Czech-Polish border. Visitors can explore various tour circuits that detail the lives of the noble families who owned the estate, including the Piccolomini and Schaumburg-Lippe dynasties. The complex includes a notable bear moat, which has housed brown bears for centuries. The castle grounds feature extensive terraced gardens providing panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Metuje river valley. The interior spaces retain period furnishings, wall paintings, and an extensive collection of historical weaponry. It remains a key example of the defensive architecture that once protected the regional trade routes.
The elevated stone terrace overlooking the town of Náchod and the main castle courtyard.
Prioritize comfortable walking shoes, as the site involves traversing steep inclines and stone-paved courtyards.
Check the tour availability in advance, as certain circuit routes are only offered during peak season.
Allow extra time to walk the perimeter garden paths for the best unobstructed views of the town.
Attempting to visit without checking the current status of the bear moat, as it may be closed for maintenance or safety.
Closed on Mondays; operations are significantly reduced or limited to exterior grounds during the winter months.
Photography is restricted or prohibited in certain interior rooms; maintain quiet in the residential wings.
