📜 Konopiště Castle, a significant Czech monument, founded in the late 13th century. 🔍 Transformed into a grand residence by Archduke Franz Ferdinand d'Este in the late 19th century, whose assassination sparked WWI. # Why Go 🏰 Explore lavish interiors, Franz Ferdinand's private rooms, and unique hunting exhibitions 🛡️ Discover extensive art collections, arms, hunting trophies, and the St. George Museum 🎯 Experience the historic shooting range with moving targets 🌸 Wander through the beautiful Rose Garden, historic greenhouses, and a vast 340-hectare park with nature trails 🚶 Discover the castle's rich history and diverse architectural styles # Why Avoid ♿ Some tour circuits are physically demanding with many stairs, not suitable for wheelchairs 🐾 Pets are prohibited in expositions, courtyards, terraces, and the Rose Garden # Tips 🎟️ Book private tours and specific circuits in advance, especially for Soukromé pokoje and Lovecká trasa 🎧 Audioguides in English, Russian, and German available for circuits 1-3 🚂 Consider taking the tourist train from Benešov to the castle during the season ⌚ Check the official website for seasonal opening hours and specific circuit availability 🚲 Bring a personal lock for bikes stored in the staff courtyard # Cost 💰 Adults 280-420 Kč depending on the circuit, discounts available for seniors, youth, and children. # Hours 🕒 Generally open daily from April to October; hours vary by season (e.g., 10:00-16:00 in spring/fall, 10:00-17:00 in summer). # 🅿️ Parking Two paid parking lots available (approx. 600m and 300m from castle). Additional parking in Benešov town. # ♿ Accessibility Wheelchair access for circuit 1 (Southern Wing Salons) using a stair climber. Accessible restrooms available. Rose Garden, shooting range, and St. George Museum are also accessible. # 🍽️ Food Refreshment options include Castle Restaurant, D'Este Cafe, Bistro, Chocolaterie, and Rose Cafe. # 📸 Photography Photography and filming generally prohibited in interiors, except in specified rooms without flash, tripods, or selfie sticks.