Explore Kačina Castle and the Museum of the Czech Countryside
Introduction to Kačina Castle and Museum
Located near Kutná Hora, Kačina Castle houses the Museum of the Czech Countryside, dedicated to the agricultural history and culture of the region. This empire-style castle, built between 1806-1822 by Count Jan Rudolf Chotek, is renowned for its architectural grandeur and expansive parkland designed by N. Jacquin.
History and Architecture of Kačina Castle
Historical Background Originally the residence of the Chotek family until 1911, Kačina Castle underwent significant restoration efforts following WWII. Today, it serves as a cultural hub showcasing the rural heritage of the Czech Republic.
Castle Tours and Exhibitions
Servants’ Life and Economic Facilities Explore the daily life of servants through demonstrations in the castle’s economic facilities. Visit the joinery, refrigeration rooms, and unique basement stables. Learn about heating methods, water supply, and more. Tours are self-guided with options for guided tours by appointment.
Chotek Family History in 13 Chambers Guided tours offer insights into the lives of the Chotek family through thirteen imperial chambers. Discover their estate, Nové Dvory, and learn about their contributions to Kačina Castle’s legacy.
Chotek Library, Castle Theater, and Chapel Trace the cultural legacy of the Chotek family through their extensive library, a magnificent castle theater, and an unfinished chapel. Explore art collections and historical artifacts from the Šrobár’s collection during designated visiting hours.
Castle Greenhouse, Herb Garden, and Horse Stable Tour the castle’s greenhouse, herb garden, and historically significant horse stable. Learn about the park’s arboretum, foreign tree species, and water features integral to the castle’s landscape design.
Representative Rooms and Special Tours Exclusive tours highlight selected representative rooms and the Chotek library. These tours are ideal for senior groups and require prior reservations for a personalized experience.
VIP Tour: Land and Spa An exclusive tour offering access to restricted areas like the dance and billiards hall. Limited to small groups with advance booking.
Permanent Exhibitions at Kačina Castle
Castle Stables Exhibition Experience an immersive journey through the castle’s stables with animations and authentic sounds of horses and their environment.
Textile and Leather Processing Discover the history of textile and leather production through interactive displays and occasional spinning and weaving demonstrations.
The Story of Wood Explore the thematic exhibition on wood, linked to Kačina’s arboretum and park, featuring the “bodies” of trees and their historical significance.
Spagyria: Plant Alchemy Delve into the history of spagyria, a historical source of pharmacy, through exhibits in the castle chapel’s laboratory.
Kingdom of Bees Witness the diversity of bee habitats through historic beehives and interactive displays revealing the world of these industrious insects.
Mills on the Novodvorské Manor Learn about the historical mills in Bohemia through detailed models and exhibits on milling techniques.
Special Exhibitions and Activities
Kačina Theater Pavilion Visit the puppet theater exhibition in the castle chapel, showcasing a fully functional baroque marionette theater and original costumes from the Chotek family.
Outdoor Exhibitions Explore outdoor exhibitions like “From the Life of Insects,” which educates visitors about endangered insect species in Kačina’s natural park.
Educational Programs and Special Events
Programs for Schools Engage in interactive educational programs focusing on rural life and aristocratic traditions from the 19th century.
Chotkov Festival Annual event offering a glimpse into 19th-century castle life and estate activities.
Plan Your Visit to Kačina Castle and Museum
Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Kačina Castle and the Museum of the Czech Countryside. Explore exhibitions, take guided tours, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of this iconic empire-style castle near Kutná Hora.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Svátý Mikuláš 51, 284 01 Kutná Hora
- Operator: Museum of the Czech Countryside, Kačina Castle
- Contact: Tel. +420 602 187 700, Email: nzm.kacina@nzm.cz
- Website: Kačina Castle
- GPS Coordinates: 49.981688, 15.346025
Opening Hours:
- April: Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
- May – September: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 17:00
- October – December: Saturday – Sunday, 10:00 – 16:00
(Closed on weekdays in April and specific holidays; last tours start at closing time.)
Admission Prices:
- Full Price: 180 CZK
- Reduced Price: 100 CZK
(Guided tours available at additional cost.)
Duration of Visit: Approximately 2 hours