Voyage Prague Travel agency (Prague, Czech Republic)

Krivoklat, the oldest hunting castle of Czech kings, dates from the 11th century Premyslid dynasty. It is easily one of the most intriguing Gothic castles in Central Europe, situated west of Prague on the rocky crags of the Beroun River. The future Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, Charles IV, whiled away his childhood years here. In the 16th century, Krivoklat held some of the royal treasury and, oddly, at the same time also served as a prison for some of Bohemia’s most heinous criminals and disgraced aristocrats. The notorious 16th century charlatan, Edward Kelley, spent time here. He had attempted to swindle the Emperor Rudolf II into believing he had uncovered the secret of the philosopher stone, and got caught out. Krivoklat’s many impressive offerings include fully-equipped torture chambers; outstanding interiors such as the vast 13th century Gothic reception hall, the Silver Room, the Knights Hall; a late Gothic collection of paintings and sculptures; and the Royal Library with more than 53,000 manuscripts and books.

   Individual English speaking guide (5 hours) — 90 euros