The Rychnov nad Kněžnou Château

Rychnov nad Kněžnou Chateau was built in 1676 by František Karel I Kolowrat Liebstein as a new four-winged manor with an arcade yard. It received its present looks during the expansion of the next two generations of the owners of the estate. In the 18^th century, the modifications were most likely happening under the baton of Jan Blažej Santini Aichel. The Kolowrats lived and operated here until 1948, when their property was nationalized. After the Velvet Revolution, the chateau, forests and farmland were returned to them, and the estate is presently being owned by Jan Egon Kolowrat of Krakow Liebstein. You can admire the original furnishings, the Kolowrat fans, glassware, weapons and a collection of paintings by famous painters, such as Karel Škréta and Hans von Aachen, within the chateau’s interior parts. The so-called Moravian Excalibur - the only preserved ceremonial sword in our country - will certainly deserve your attention. The chateau also incorporates the Church of the Holy Trinity, again executed in Santini Aichel’s style. You can visit it with a guide, along with the adjacent belfry, home to a 7,000 kg bell called Kryštof. It is the third most massive functional bell in Bohemia. You can spend a pleasant time over a cup of excellent coffee and other goodies at the chateau café in the second courtyard. The Orlická Gallery has found home in a section of the chateau, too. There is an exhibition of historical vehicles every year, so you can visit the chateau just at that particular time.