The Czech Republic is a country where medieval romance is interwoven with creative modernity. This is a place where you want to walk for a long time through the paved streets, to be surprised by old buildings and admire modern achievements. And, of course, the Czech Republic is a country of castles, each of which keeps its own history.
Orlik Castle, which towers over the Vltava, is remarkable for its amazing architecture. Having settled on a high rock, the castle really looks like an eagle’s nest – a symbol of royal power.
The legend describing the emergence of this castle, says that once the eagle took the son of one of the robbers who lived in these places. The robber climbed a high rock and from there he saw the eagle’s nest, where his son was. The robber saved his son and decided to completely change his life and quit robbery. In memory of the fact that the high rock helped to find his son, a man erected a fortress on it directly opposite the eagle’s nest. Experts say that Orlik Castle was built in the 13th century.
Then it was a one-story building, enclosed by a jagged fence. Its direct purpose was to control the ford across the river. Orlik Castle and now surprises tourists with its greatness. The castle is located on the edge of the cape, which is washed by the waters of the Orlitsky reservoir. Over the years of its existence, the castle has repeatedly burned in a fire. In various eras, it was restored. Now Orlik Castle is a four-story building with an adjacent park area, attracting the eyes of everyone who comes close.
Today Orlik Castle is the property of Karl Schwarzenberg – a descendant of the oldest family. The castle is available for visits and excursions. Tourists are invited to see the beautiful interior of the castle, which preserves the medieval spirit. There are collections of weapons on the walls, among which are very old specimens. Here you can see the Knight’s Hall, Teskov Hall and other rooms that amaze the imagination with its grandeur and antiquity.
The castle exhibits personal items, awards, distinctions, once owned by representatives of the Schwarzenberg clan. A walk through the castle introduces the history of this kind. Also here you can see a variety of archaeological finds that were found in the vicinity of the castle.
A visit to Orlik Castle will give you an unforgettable experience. This is a unique opportunity to go back a few epochs, get acquainted with the traditions and customs of the people of that time.
