Konopiště castle park walk - Czech republic
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Konopiště castle park walk
At the end of 13th century, there was constructed Konopiště Castle. The building was consequently passed into ownershop of various aristocratic parentages, such as Sternberg, Hodějovsky of Hodějov, Vrtba or Lobkowitz Parentages. Finally, Archduke Frank Ferdinand d´Este bought this dominion completely. He established here his representative seat. After 1st World War, the park became a property of Czechoslovak state and was open for public in 1922. Now, the park is declared as National Culture Monument. Anyway, first gardens around the park were founded by Vrtba parentage. Archduke Frank Ferdinand let to create castle park of total surface of 340 ha. Except of local plants, there were planted here even some exotic sorts. Since 1888, hundreds of workers worked on park improvement for a period of 15 years. On park creation, there was also participated by Viennese garden architect Mossner and Charles Rozinek, main gardener from Prague-Stromovka park. However, the village of Konopiště prevented a view from castle´s windows, so the space was bought and the village demolished. Nevertheless, you can see some plants in flowers during winter. In January, you can watch Japanese bush, imported here from Japanese mountain forests. Central part is formed with terraces on east and south part of the castle, and so called Rose Garden, where you can see 5200 rose bushes. Near to this garden, you can see glassed houses with interesting collection of plants. Apart of plants, you can admire in park many statues. Castle ditch is arrange as living space for bears. Since 1933, the bears are living here. First couple of young bears came from Carpathian Russia. Now, bears from Central and South Asia found their home here. Bear-lady Masha was born in ZOO-garden in Bratislava in 1933. Her partner Kasimir (one year younger) comes from ZOO-garden in Wroclaw.
Route length: 7 kms
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