The castle is still under the stewardship of the Sternberg family, specifically Zdeněk Sternberg, who reclaimed the property following the fall of the communist regime.
The name 'Šternberk' is derived from the German 'Stern' (star) and 'Berg' (mountain), a reference to the golden eight-pointed star featured on the family crest.
The castle features a 15th-century defensive system that successfully repelled the forces of King George of Poděbrady.
The 'Hladomorna' (hunger dungeon) tower served as a prison; prisoners were lowered into the depths through a hole in the ceiling.
The interior chapel is dedicated to St. Sebastian and features elaborate early Baroque stucco decorations.
During the 18th century, the castle was repurposed into a residential chateau, softening some of its austere military character.
The complex houses an extensive collection of copper engravings related to the Thirty Years' War.
Český Šternberk Castle is a medieval fortification established in 1241 by Zdeslav of Divišov, strategically positioned on a ridge overlooking the Sázava River. It remains one of the few Czech castles continuously owned and managed by the same family, the Sternbergs, for nearly eight centuries. The architecture features an original 13th-century Gothic base significantly modified during the 17th-century Baroque reconstruction. The interior holds a notable collection of historical weaponry, family portraits, and intricate stuccowork. Visitors can access various state rooms and the grand Knights' Hall via guided tours. Its defensive system was expanded in the 15th century to include an outer curtain wall and a western cylindrical tower known as 'Hladomorna'. The site survived numerous sieges, including those during the Hussite Wars and the Thirty Years' War. It is situated in the Central Bohemian Region approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Prague.
From the bridge crossing the Sázava River, looking up at the castle's western profile.
Opt for the full interior tour to see the decorative ceiling work, as the shorter routes omit several key rooms.
Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as the historic stone courtyard and interior floors can be uneven.
Visit the surrounding castle park for a clear vantage point of the exterior masonry and riverside location.
Do not attempt to explore the perimeter outside designated paths as the terrain is steep and rocky.
Closed on Mondays; limited operations during the winter season.
Photography is restricted inside the private living quarters; follow guides' instructions regarding flash usage.
