Bike trip around the Křivoklát region

Our cycling trip starts at Zbiroh chateau. You can get here by bike from the train station Kařez. The original castle was founded at the beginning of the 13th century, but gradually acquired its present-day Neo-Renaissance appearance. Many owners took turns at Zbiroh, including Přemysl Otakar II., The Rožmberk, Kolowrat, Lobkovicz and Colloredo-Mansfeld families. In the period 1912–1928, Alfons Mucha stayed at the chateau and created his famous work here – the Slavonic Epic.

From the courtyard of the castle is a beautiful view of the Křivoklát region. You can also walk through the beautiful castle gardens.

Another stop in the depths of the Křivoklát region is the village of Skryje. Its significance is truly global. It was here in 1833 that an important site of trilobite fossils was discovered. One species is even named after Skryjí – Skreiaspis. As a reminder, in addition to the trilobite in the emblem of the village, you will also find the nature trail In the footsteps of the trilobite.

An interesting ruin on our route is Krakovec. The ruins of a medieval castle from 1381, where Master Jan Hus stayed before leaving for Constance. It is located directly on the border of the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area, which belongs to the UNESCO biosphere reserve. It has been protected as a cultural monument since 1965.

From Krakovec, it is a stone's throw to Rakovník – a royal town from 1588, after centuries of futile efforts, this title was awarded to him by Rudolf II. The history of the town dates back to the middle of the 12th century and historically fell under the influence of the nearby Křivoklát Castle, from the influence of which it always tried to break free and therefore sided with the current monarch, such as George of Poděbrady. But complete secession was only guaranteed by the award of the royal title.