Archduke Franz Ferdinand d'Este, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, celebrated his wedding to Sophie Chotek at this castle in 1900.
The castle features a 17th-century bridge adorned with stone statues that connects the chateau to the surrounding park.
The castle's cellar contains a functioning 17th-century bear sanctuary, continuing a tradition that dates back to the era of the Grand Duke of Tuscany.
Many interior rooms retain their original 19th-century furniture, textiles, and heating stoves, providing an authentic look into imperial living conditions.
The castle chapel is decorated with extensive ceiling frescoes that underwent significant restoration in the early 21st century.
Zákupy Castle is a Renaissance chateau located in Northern Bohemia, noted for its extensive 19th-century interior preservation. It served as the summer residence of the deposed Austrian Emperor Ferdinand I, who lived here until his death in 1875. The site features a preserved English-style landscape park covering approximately 3.4 hectares. The structure was originally built as a fortress in the 14th century before being converted into a Renaissance residence under the Berka of Dubá family. The interiors contain unique Josef Navrátil wall paintings from the 1850s, which remain among the most significant examples of 19th-century decorative art in the region. Visitors can view the Imperial Apartments which reflect the Biedermeier and Second Rococo styles. The castle courtyard features an arcaded gallery and a notable Baroque fountain.
The castle courtyard looking up at the Renaissance arcade gallery.
Take a guided tour to access the primary residential rooms, as self-guided interior access is restricted.
Allow extra time to walk the perimeter of the English-style landscape park, which is often less crowded than the main courtyard.
Check the official website for specialized themed tours, which sometimes include private areas not open to the general public.
Attempting to enter the park or courtyard during private events, which may close sections of the grounds.
Generally closed on Mondays and during the winter season.
Photography is restricted inside the castle interiors; shoe covers are required on guided tours to protect historic floors.
