Moravia is home to countless castles, but Bouzov Castle, located near the village of Bouzov, stands out as one of the most beautiful. What makes this castle particularly captivating is its fascinating evolution over time. Unlike the typical symmetrical palaces, Bouzov Castle is a delightful mix of galleries, turrets, Gothic arches, secret spiral staircases, elaborate gutters, niches, stained glass windows, and stunning ceiling paintings. The result is a castle that feels like it belongs in a fairytale. In this blog, we’ll explore the history and enchanting beauty of this iconic Czech castle.
Castle of a knighthood
This castle boasts a rich and fascinating history, having been owned by various noble families over the centuries before it was eventually acquired by a German religious order of knights. When you visit today, much of what you see is directly linked to the influence of this knighthood and the grand masters who led the order.
Among the most influential figures in the castle’s history is Grand Master Eugenie of Habsburg, an Austrian archduke and member of the Imperial Habsburg family. He made a significant impact on the castle through major renovations carried out between 1895 and 1910. During this time, the castle was transformed into the neo-Gothic masterpiece we admire today. It was also during this period that the castle was equipped with modern amenities, such as running water and a heating system, bringing it into the modern age while preserving its historic charm.
The castle’s present-day appearance is defined by its horseshoe shape, which surrounds a central courtyard featuring an old well. The most eye-catching element is the towering 58-meter-high structure that dominates the landscape, visible from a considerable distance as you approach Bouzov. Within the castle, the Ridderhal, or Knight’s Hall, stands out as the largest and most impressive room. This magnificent hall stretches across the entire north wing and spans two floors, showcasing beautiful details such as exquisite stained glass windows.
During World War II, the Nazis seized control of the castle, and after the war, it was transferred to Soviet authorities. Following this, controversial laws were enacted that led to the confiscation of property from German nationals, including German orders. In 1989, after the collapse of the Soviet communist regime, the order formally requested the return of the castle. However, their petition was rejected. A later lawsuit filed in 2016 also ended in defeat.
Practical Information
Bouzov Castle is located about a half-hour’s drive from Olomouc and can also be reached by bus. Visitors can only tour the castle through guided tours. Unfortunately, during our visit in the summer of 2021, the tours were only available in Czech. As a result, we were provided with a booklet containing English-language information to read on our own while exploring the castle. The tour, which was originally expected to last 50 minutes, ended up being closer to 35 minutes. The cost of the tour was 200 CZK per person (roughly €8), and parking fees were 60 CZK (around €2.50).
