The castle's sgraffito decoration covers almost every exterior surface, depicting mythological and historical scenes.
The interior contains a library with over 65,000 volumes, one of the largest private book collections in the country.
It was specifically designed as a 'château de plaisance' or pleasure palace rather than a defensive fortress.
The building was seized by the Nazi regime during WWII and later by the Communist government, before being restituted to the Lobkowicz family in the 1990s.
The local village of Nelahozeves contains the original Dvořák family house, now a museum dedicated to the composer.
The castle features a rare collection of musical instruments and original manuscripts written by composers like Beethoven and Haydn.
Zámek Nelahozeves is a 16th-century Renaissance castle built by the noble Lobkowicz family, serving as one of the most significant private art collection sites in the Czech Republic. The structure is celebrated for its sgraffito-decorated facade, which remains one of the best-preserved examples in Central Europe. The interiors house portions of the Lobkowicz Collections, including works by Old Masters such as Velázquez, Brueghel, and Rubens. The estate is historically linked to the adjacent village, which was the birthplace of composer Antonín Dvořák. The castle functions as a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions and musical performances throughout the year. It remains a key example of Bohemian Renaissance architecture, having survived the Thirty Years' War largely intact. The family maintains the estate as a private museum, allowing public access to its historical chambers and gallery rooms. Visitors can view a permanent exhibition that illustrates the history and daily life of the Lobkowicz family over several centuries.
The main castle gate and the inner courtyard, which provide the best views of the sgraffito masonry.
Combine your castle tour with a short walk to the nearby Dvořák Birthplace museum.
Check the official website for rotating temporary exhibitions before planning your trip.
Visit the castle courtyard, which is often accessible independently and showcases the detailed architectural masonry.
Do not mistake the nearby Dvořák house for the main castle museum; they are separate attractions.
Typically closed on Mondays; often operates on a seasonal schedule with extended access during summer months.
Photography is generally prohibited inside the museum galleries; maintain quiet in historical rooms.
