- Address: 419 01 Duchcov, Czech Republic
- Phone: +420 417 835 301
- Official website: zamek-duchcov.cz
Duchcov Castle is located in the Czech Republic , in a small town whose name it bears. The fortress is firmly associated with the name of the world-famous adventurer - Giacomo Casanova. It is he who is devoted most of the exhibits in the museum of the castle. In addition, tourists during a visit to Dukhtzov can learn the history of creating his exclusive furniture, enjoy a walk through the garden and the park that were planted during the construction of the castle.
Description
Duchcovsky Castle was built in the 13th century. After three centuries, the fortress was dismantled, and in its place a magnificent Renaissance palace was erected. When the castle passed into the possession of the Waldstein family, it was decided to change its style to the Baroque. It took a lot of time. At the same time, together with the owner's house, a hospital, a French park and many outbuildings were built.
What to see?
Duchcov Castle is known not only as an architectural landmark , but also as the last refuge of Casanova. Many tourists visit Duchcov precisely because of his distinguished guest. At 60, Giacomo Casanova was a man with a rich biography, but absolutely poor. He had neither housing nor valuable property. The Italian was sheltered by Count Valdstein, the owner of the Duchcovsky Castle. Casanova was a librarian. The palace and its gardens inspired Giacomo, and he took up creative work. For 13 years spent in the castle, he wrote a multi-volume "History of my life", a novel, scientific work on physics, chemistry and philosophy. Many manuscripts can be seen among the exhibits of the museum. Also in the collection there are:
- Casanova's chair. All men are invited to sit in it. It is believed that after such a ritual, the success of the female is assured.
- Giacomo's personal belongings. Valdstein and his descendants were able to preserve these objects, which are of interest, if only because they were used by the most legendary personality of the eighteenth century.
During the tour, the guide tells stories and legends about Giacomo, and especially how hard life was given him in this castle. His servants immediately disliked him and found hundreds of ways to spoil his life. For example, cooks often digested the paste, which significantly spoiled the mood of the Italian. The guests of the castle, on the contrary, happily communicated with the erudite and charming Casanova. By the way, visiting all events was, according to the agreement with Valdstein, his duty.
In addition to items related to the favorite of women, in the fortress you can see other interesting items. The walls of Dukhtsov are hung with works of artists of the 15th-18th centuries, who once also stayed in the castle. It is worth to visit the hall with unique furniture, looking at which, you can trace the history of furniture development in Europe. After a tour of the castle, tourists are invited to take a walk in the garden and the park.
Interesting Facts
Part of the castle is occupied with modern buildings. This is due to the fact that in 1982 the administration was looking for deposits of minerals on the territory of Dukhtsov. For this, the old hospital and the chapel were demolished. It was in their place that new houses were built.
Also the fate of the buried body of Casanova is interesting. Initially, he was buried in a cemetery next to Dukhtsovsky Castle, but after it was closed, the remains were moved to another place. Despite close attention to the life of Giacomo, the grave has not yet been found.
How to get there?
The town of Duchcov is located in the Czech Republic 100 km from Prague , they are connected by a national road number 8. On it you need to go to the town of Rehlovice, then turn to the E442 highway in a western direction. Near the town of Hostomice you need to move to track 258, which will take you to Duchcovsky Castle.