'''Bene?ov'''[http://www.zamek-konopiste.cz/index.php?jaz=CZE&ID=0] is a town in the Czech Republic, notable for nearby '''Konopi?t? Castle'''.

Understand

Konopi?t? was the residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne). He purchased the castle and took up residence several years prior to his assassination in Sarajevo. Archduke Ferdinand married a woman of Czech nobility (a scandalous affair due to her only being a duchess). Feeling ostracized from the nobility in Vienna, he chose Konopi?t? as his residence instead.

Get in

The best way to get to town, and then to Konopi?t?, from Prague is by train. You will need to catch a train to Bene?ov and from there walk 2km to the castle. To get from the train station to the castle find the yellow tourist trail and follow the markers to the Castle. The departing train schedule is posted very clearly in the train station and you may want to review it to choose a departure time prior to heading up to the castle.

See

The '''castle''' itself, as far as Czech castles go, is not overly impressive. It does have a large tower, a mote with two live bears, extensive gardens as well as a lake. Inside of the castle you can see Archduke Ferdinand's large collection of weapons, guest room, living quarters, etc. all of which are also not too unique. The weapon's and armor collection though is quite impressive. The aspect of the castle that does differentiate it from other castle's in the Czech Republic is that the castle tour will touch on issues that are very much relevant to 20th century history. The guide will go into some detail about the mysterious death of Crown Prince Rudolph, information about the assassination and the relevance of these events to the decline of the Austro-Hungarian empire in the early 20th century. For those interested 20th century European history, the castle is definitely worth a visit.

There are three tours of the Castle

  • Basic - Currently no information available
  • Section II - A tour of Ferdinand's living quarters, guest area, 'harem' gifted to him by the Turkish Sultan, his arms collection and a modern 'elevator.'
  • '''Cost:''' 140k? for tours in foreign languages

  • Section III (extensive tour) - Currently no information available
  • '''Cost:''' 250k? for tours in foreign languages

    The castle is open from 9:00AM to 5:00PM during the summer. During the off season it is open during most of the day (with varying hours by month) except for the months of January and February, during which time the castle is closed.

    Eat and Drink

    '''U Ferdinanda''' This is a great pub located near the castle's lake. There is an outdoor barbecue where Czech sausage with horseradish and mustard is served among other great meals. A small local brewery produces 'Ferdinand' beer which is definitely on par with some of the other larger more well known Czech breweries. The prices for both beer and food are very reasonable.

    Sleep

  • Prague Cottage. ttp://www.praguecottage.com/. 34.657304838. raguecottage@telefonica.net. lenice. ust outside Prague. Bringing the family with you to Prague? How about combining the historical sights with the peace and quiet of a countryside retreat? Just half an hour from Wenceslas Square, our cute holiday rental cottage may be just what you're after! Sleeps 4 to 6. Pretty fenced garden with fruit trees, 5 mins walk from a swimmable river and a great pub, lovely surroundings, train stop 3 mins walk, very good access to Prague. Perfect for a family trip- walking, cycling, swimming and canoeing in the river, castles, golf etc. From just ?340 per week. Check out our webpage for plenty of photos and links.

    Get out