Český Šternberk Castle

The castle's simple Gothic exterior hides richly decorated interiors. Český Šternberk has belonged to the descendants of its founder, Zdeslav of the Divišov family, for nearly eight centuries.

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Explore the Gothic gem above the Sázava River, a popular destination for canoeists and hikers alike. On this engaging tour, you’ll uncover the deep history of the Sternberg family, whose roots run deep within the castle.

Be sure not to miss the tour that takes you to the second floor, where 15 rooms await, each beautifully furnished with pieces from various periods. Admire the early Baroque stucco decorations adorned with family coats of arms, smaller salons, and a grand dining room that still serves as a family gallery. You’ll also get a glimpse into the study of Jiří Sternberg, the grandfather of the current owner. Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by an impressive collection of graphic prints from the Thirty Years’ War, the largest collection of its kind in Europe.

Tip for you: For a breathtaking view of the Posázaví landscape, climb to the former bastion, known as the “hunger tower.” This important part of the castle’s defense system now serves as a lookout. A spiral staircase will lead you to the top, passing the old ammunition and food storage that once supplied the defending troops during a siege.

The castle’s current form comes from a lavish early Baroque renovation in the late 17th century, shifting focus from defense to aesthetics and comfort. Stark rooms were transformed into ornate salons, in line with contemporary taste, while the medieval exterior was preserved, hiding beautiful interiors. In the 20th century, the castle was equipped with electricity, plumbing, and central heating. After the communist coup, it was expropriated, with Jiří Sternberg appointed manager. Český Šternberk was returned to its rightful owners in 1992 and remains in the hands of the 21st generation of the original founder’s descendants. It is now one of the best-preserved castle complexes in the Czech Republic.

What’s next?

If you’re arriving by car or train to explore the castle’s history, you can easily continue your journey upstream to Kácov, where you can visit the Šalanda brewery. During a tour, you’ll learn about the brewing process of traditional Czech-style beer. If you’re visiting Český Šternberk as part of a canoe trip, let the river guide you to Sázava, where you can discover the unique 11th-century monastery complex.