Czech Republic: king of the castles

The Czech Republic has perhaps developed something of a reputation for being the premier destination for drunken stag parties, because of the low cost of boozing in Prague.

However, there is much, much more to this Eastern European country than a cheap night out, given that the Czech Republic has more preserved castles and chateaux per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

The Czech Republic boasts more than 2,000 castles and chateaux throughout its land, making it an ideal destination for families and couples who want an interesting tour around the country, taking in fairytale buildings.

All the castles are steeped in history, and some have played an important role in international affairs, while others hold expensive art collections and memorials, such as the Hradec nad Moravici.

With such a vast number of historical buildings to take in, it is worth having a few pointers before embarking on your exploration.

Kuks just to the east of Prague is notable because of its grand baroque style which draws together baths, a hospital complex, church and a crypt. The interior has been impressively maintained, replete with a baroque pharmacy.

It also features its own park, which you can picnic in, containing a number of slightly eerie sculptures by MB Braun.

Becov nad Teplou on the far west of the Czech Republic is worth visiting to see how expertly a castle can be restored, even if it has been damaged by war.

Indeed the Thirty Years War caused damage to the 13th century castle after the Swedish army attacked and occupied it, but now it has been fully restored, with Romantic-style interiors contrasting deliciously with the baroque, angular exterior.

For an extensive list of castles and chateaux in the Czech Republic, visit www.czechtourism.com XXX