Neo-Gothic Temple at Krásný Dvůr

The Neo-Gothic Temple in the landscape park of Krásný Dvůr State Chateau is an exceptional work of Czech garden architecture. It is regarded as the first purely Neo-Gothic building on Czech territory. It was created within a large English-style park founded by Jan Rudolf Černín, and it was never just a small decoration among the trees: it was meant to connect the park with the surrounding landscape and serve as a striking point visible from afar.

The plans for the temple were prepared by Andreas Niederhofer in 1792 and 1793, and construction was still being completed in 1796. Its central ground plan, tall pillars, raised lantern, pyramidal roof with a cross and daring combination of masonry and timber structures make it one of the most interesting romantic buildings in the park. In 1847, a statue of Field Marshal Karl Philipp Schwarzenberg, victor over Napoleon at the Battle of Leipzig, was placed inside.

Visit and View

The temple was also designed as a lookout, with views into the chateau park, the Ore Mountains and the Doupov Mountains. At present, the interior is closed for technical reasons until further notice. Treat this POI mainly as a stop in the park and an architectural landmark, not as a guaranteed viewpoint with access to the interior.

Practical Information

The building stands in Krásný Dvůr chateau park, which is part of the state chateau grounds. Before travelling, check the current status of the temple on the chateau website, as access may change depending on its technical condition and the monument administration's decision. The temple is reached on foot through the park; expect a longer walk, sturdier footwear and the fact that the greatest value of the place is the connection between architecture and landscape.

Contacts and Directions

• Visitor information: zamek-krasnydvur.cz - Neo-Gothic Temple
• Chateau administration: Zámek 1, 439 72 Krásný Dvůr
• Temple GPS: 50.2442664, 13.3580369
• Phone: +420 415 210 004
• E-mail: krasnydvur@npu.cz