Tochovice Castle
Tochovice Castle is a notable historical monument located in Tochovice village, within the Příbram District of the Central Bohemian Region in the Czech Republic. This classicist and partly Empire-style castle stands as a testament to architectural evolution from its origins as a 13th-century fortress. The site's significance is heightened by its transformation over centuries, reflecting both local history and broader European trends.
The origin of Tochovice Castle dates back to the early 13th century when it was initially constructed as a fortress by the monastery of Saint John the Baptist on Ostrov nad Davlí. This period marked the beginning of the castle's long historical journey, which saw numerous ownership changes and architectural modifications. By the early 19th century, the original fortress had been replaced with an Empire-style château, reflecting the era's architectural preferences.
Architecturally, Tochovice Castle is distinguished by its two-wing, single-story design featuring a mansard roof and a pediment supported by four pilasters. The left wing includes an open arcade with eight arches at ground level, while the right wing originally housed stables and coach houses. This transformation from fortress to château illustrates the shift in architectural styles over time, moving from Renaissance influences to late Baroque and eventually Neoclassical elements.
Throughout its history, Tochovice Castle has seen a succession of notable owners. In the 15th century, it was under the Zmrzlíkové ze Svojšína family, followed by the Lokšanové z Lokšan in the 16th century. By 1623, Přibík Jeníšek z Újezda acquired Březnice and subsequently Tochovice. The castle later came into the possession of Vilém Albrecht II. Krakovský z Kolovrat in 1733, and by 1815, Josef Vratislav z Mitrovic purchased it for his wife, Gabriela. Ownership continued to evolve through figures such as Josefína Schwarzenbergová and Karel II. ze Schwarzenbergu, until the castle was nationalized in 1949.
Key events in the history of Tochovice Castle include its construction by a religious order, its acquisition by various noble families, and its transformation into an Empire-style château in the early 19th century. These changes reflect broader historical trends, such as shifts in architectural styles and ownership patterns following significant political upheavals like the Napoleonic Wars.
Today, Tochovice Castle remains a cultural monument surrounded by an English park, though it is not open to the public. Despite its inaccessibility, the castle's rich history and architectural significance make it a compelling site for those interested in exploring Bohemian heritage. Visitors can appreciate the historical context and artistic evolution that have shaped this remarkable structure over centuries.
Tochovice Castle stands as a symbol of resilience and transformation, offering insights into the cultural and architectural developments of its time. Its preservation as a cultural monument ensures that future generations can continue to learn from and be inspired by its storied past. While access may be limited, the castle's historical value invites curiosity and exploration, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in Czech history and architecture.
Then and now
Drag the slider to compare how the landmark may have looked when it was built with the view today.
The historical appearance on the left is an AI-generated visualisation and serves as inspiration only.
Historical milestones
- 13th century
- Construction of a fortress by the monastery of Saint John the Baptist on Ostrov nad Davlí.
- 1623
- Přibík Jeníšek z Újezda acquired Březnice and subsequently Tochovice.
- 1815
- Josef Vratislav z Mitrovic purchased the castle for his wife, Gabriela.
- 1949
- The castle was nationalized.
Architectural development
The original fortress on the site of Zámek Tochovice was replaced in the early 19th century with an Empire-style château. This new structure features a two-wing, single-story design with a mansard roof and a pediment supported by four pilasters. The left wing includes an open arcade with eight arches at ground level, while the right wing originally housed stables and coach houses.
Historical events
13th century: Construction of a fortress by the monastery of Saint John the Baptist on Ostrov nad Davlí.
1623: Přibík Jeníšek z Újezda acquired Březnice and subsequently Tochovice.
1815: Josef Vratislav z Mitrovic purchased the castle for his wife, Gabriela.
1949: The castle was nationalized.
Owners
Zmrzlíkové ze Svojšína (15th century)
Lokšanové z Lokšan (16th century)
Přibík Jeníšek z Újezda (1623 onwards)
Jeníškové z Újezda (until 1728)
Vilém Albrecht II. Krakovský z Kolovrat (1733)
Anna Marie z Újezda, provdaná Michnová z Vacínova
Josef Vratislav z Mitrovic (1815 onwards for his wife Gabriela)
Josefína Schwarzenbergová (daughter of Josef and Gabriela)
Karel II. ze Schwarzenbergu (husband of Josefína)
Dorothé Talleyrand-Périgord (early 19th century)
Státní statek Tochovice (1950 onwards)
Points of interest
- Tochovice Castle's transformation from a fortress to an Empire-style château in the early 19th century reflects broader European architectural trends, including the shift towards Neoclassicism following the Napoleonic Wars.
- The castle was initially built by the monastery of Saint John the Baptist on Ostrov nad Davlí in the 13th century, highlighting its origins linked to religious institutions which often played significant roles in medieval fortification and settlement development.
- Notably, Tochovice Castle changed hands multiple times among noble families, such as the Zmrzlíkové ze Svojšína and Lokšanové z Lokšan, illustrating the fluid nature of property ownership and influence among Bohemian nobility during tumultuous historical periods.
- In 1815, Josef Vratislav z Mitrovic acquired Tochovice for his wife Gabriela, an event that underscores how strategic marriages were used to consolidate wealth and power in aristocratic circles.
- Despite its rich history and architectural evolution, Tochovice Castle remains closed to the public today, preserved as a cultural monument amidst an English park, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain historical sites while balancing accessibility with conservation.
Guide
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Show guide text
This text was created by artificial intelligence and has not been editorially reviewed. It may contain inaccuracies.
Tochovice is located approximately fifteen kilometers south of Příbram. There stands a classicist, partially Empire-style castle surrounded by a landscaped English park. The castle is protected as a cultural monument.
Its origins date back to the first half of the thirteenth century. At that time, the monastery of Saint John the Baptist on Ostrov above Davlí built a fortified tower here. The tower and the entire estate subsequently changed owners frequently and were often pawned. In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, they were held by, for example, the Zmrzlíks of Svojšín or the Lokšans of Lokšany.
In sixteen twenty-three, Přibík Jeníšek of Újezda acquired the estate in nearby Březnice and subsequently annexed Tochovice to it. The Jeníšeks of Újezda held it until seventeen twenty-eight, when their line died out. The estate was then purchased by Wilhelm Albrecht the Second Krakovský of Kolovrat. In seventeen thirty-three, he sold it to Anna Maria of Újezda, married to Michn of Vacínov. After that, the owners changed hands several more times, until at the beginning of the nineteenth century the estate came into the hands of Duchess Dorothy Talleyrand-Périgord.
It was precisely during that period that an Empire-style castle was built on the site of the former tower. In eighteen fifteen, Josef Vratislav of Mitrovice purchased it together with the estate from the duchess for his wife Gabriela. After them, the castle was acquired by their daughter Josephine, wife of Prince Charles the Second of Schwarzenberg. The Schwarzenbergs then held the castle until nineteen forty-nine, when it was nationalized. From nineteen fifty, the State Farm Tochovice operated here. In the nineteen nineties, the castle was returned to Anna Bucherová, daughter of Ernst Schwarzenberg, as part of restitutions.
The castle is a two-winged single-story building with a mansard roof. Its façade faces the English park. The entablature beneath the triangular pediment is supported by four pilasters. The left wing has an open arcade of eight arches on the ground floor, and the arcade on the upper floor is supported by eight columns. The right wing has a simple façade and formerly housed the stables and coach house.
Tips for visitors
The best time to visit Zámek Tochovice is during the late spring or early autumn months, from May to September. During these periods, the surrounding English park is lush and vibrant, offering a picturesque setting for castle exploration. The weather is generally mild, making it comfortable for walking around the grounds and enjoying outdoor activities.
For visitors preferring public transportation, there are options to reach Příbram, which is about fifteen kilometers north of Tochovice. From Příbram, local transport or a taxi can be used to complete the journey to the castle. It's advisable to check current routes and schedules in advance.
When planning your visit, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely explore both the castle grounds and the park. A camera is essential for capturing the classicist architecture of the castle and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable due to the open landscape, especially during sunny days.
For photography enthusiasts, the best spots include the front facade of the castle where the interplay of light and shadow highlights the Empire-style details. Early morning or late afternoon provides soft lighting conditions ideal for capturing the serene park environment. Families with children will find the expansive grounds perfect for leisurely walks or picnics.
Within a 30-minute drive from Zámek Tochovice, visitors can explore additional attractions such as natural landscapes typical of Central Bohemia. While specific monuments are not detailed in close proximity, the area offers opportunities to enjoy scenic drives and outdoor activities. It's an excellent way for families to spend time together exploring the region.
Frequently asked questions
Can the monument be visited?
Some buildings of this kind are open for guided tours, others serve another purpose or are privately owned. We have not verified whether and when this monument is open – please ask the operator.
What are the opening hours and admission?
We have not verified the opening hours or admission. Current information is published by the operator. Official website: https://www.zamektochovice.cz/
Where is the monument?
Location: Tochovice, Středočeský kraj. The map on this page shows the exact spot.
Why is the monument protected?
It is listed in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic as a cultural monument (register no. 41119/2-2587).
Businesses nearby
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Events nearby
Zdroj akcí: otevřená data měst a obcí ČR (Národní katalog otevřených dat) a kalendář akcí Národního památkového ústavu.
Nearby
Zámek Tochovice is surrounded by an English park and is located about fifteen kilometers south of Příbram. The area features natural landscapes typical of Central Bohemia, though specific nearby monuments or natural features within five kilometers are not detailed.
Accommodation nearby
Themed route
Tematická Výletní Trasa: Zámek Tochovice a Jeho Park
1. Zámek Tochovice
Typ: Historický zámek
Proč stojí za návštěvu: Zámek Tochovice je krásným příkladem architektury s bohatou historií. Jeho elegantní stavba a působivé interiéry nabízejí cestovatelům vhled do minulosti této oblasti. Navíc, zámek je často hostitelem různých kulturních akcí a výstav.
2. Park u Zámku Tochovice
Typ: Anglický park
Proč stojí za návštěvu: Park, který obklopuje zámek, je ideálním místem pro relaxaci a procházky. Jeho půda je pokryta hustou vegetací a krásnými kvetoucími sadami, což vytváří klidné a přitažlivé prostředí. Je to skvělý způsob, jak si užít přírodní krásy okolí.
3. Nádvoří Zámku Tochovice
Typ: Historické nádvoří
Proč stojí za návštěvu: Nádvoří zámku je výjimečným místem, kde si můžete užít pohledu na historickou architekturu a atmosféru. Je to také místo, kde se konají různé akce a události, které přinášejí zámku život.
Tato trasa nabízí kombinaci historie, kultury a přírody v jednom pohodlném místě. Navštívte Zámek Tochovice a jeho okolí pro plnohodnotný zážitek.
Seasonal recommendations
Spring: Visiting Tochovice Castle during springtime offers a picturesque experience as the surrounding landscape bursts into vibrant colors with blooming wildflowers and lush greenery. The soft, warm light of early spring enhances the castle's historic architecture, creating an inviting atmosphere for exploration. This is also a time when nature lovers can enjoy the awakening wildlife. For those planning a visit, it’s advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes as paths may still be muddy after winter rains. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the tranquility of the site.
Summer: Summer at Tochovice Castle is characterized by long daylight hours and pleasant weather, making it perfect for leisurely tours around the grounds. The castle often hosts various cultural events during this time, adding to the lively atmosphere. Visitors should be prepared for larger crowds, especially on weekends, so arriving early in the day can ensure a more relaxed experience. Lightweight clothing is recommended due to warmer temperatures, and carrying water is essential to stay hydrated while exploring.
Autumn: Autumn brings a stunning transformation to Tochovice Castle with its rich tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change color. The cooler weather makes for comfortable strolls around the castle grounds, and the softer light of autumn days provides an ideal setting for photography enthusiasts. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to fluctuating temperatures.
Winter: The winter season at Tochovice Castle offers a unique and enchanting experience with its snow-covered grounds and festive decorations that create a magical atmosphere. Visitors should dress warmly in layers, including hats and gloves, as temperatures can be quite chilly. The quieter ambiance during winter provides an opportunity for a more intimate encounter with history, away from the summer crowds.
Visualizations and artistic views
The visualisations are generated by artificial intelligence and serve as inspiration.
Photos from the area
Real photos taken near the monument
Zdroj a licence jsou uvedeny u každého snímku.
Tips from visitors
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Sources and literature
Photos: Feťour / Public domain — Wikimedia Commons. The author and licence also appear when you hover over the image.
Faktickým podkladem tohoto textu byl článek na Wikipedii, jehož autory jsou přispěvatelé Wikipedie. Článek je dostupný pod licencí CC BY-SA 4.0.
Location on the map
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