Horšovský Týn Castle

Horšovský Týn Castle is one of the best-preserved castle-chateau complexes in western Bohemia — a fortified residence that changed hands and architectural styles across seven centuries, and today stands as a protected national monument at the heart of the town of Horšovský Týn in the Plzeň Region.

How did the castle come to be built?

The story begins in the 13th century, when one of the bishops of Prague ordered a fortified stronghold raised on a rocky spur next to a market settlement known as Týn. That early Gothic fortress still shapes the site today — sections of its walls survive, along with a chapel that remains one of the most valuable interior spaces in the whole complex. During the Hussite Wars of the 15th century, the bishop's castle withstood two separate sieges without ever falling, a testament to its defensible position. Afterward, ownership passed from the church to secular noble families, with the House of Ronšperk among the first to hold the estate.

When did the Lobkowicz family take over?

In 1535 the estate passed to the Lords of Lobkowicz, opening the castle's most lavish chapter. Disaster struck soon after: in 1547 a devastating fire tore through the building. Rather than abandon the ruined structure, Jan the Younger of Lobkowicz began rebuilding it in Renaissance style just three years later, transforming the old fortress into a stately noble residence. By the late 16th century his successor, Kryštof of Lobkowicz, had expanded the grounds further, adding a Loreto chapel, a ball court, and additional structures within the surrounding park — turning Horšovský Týn into one of the region's most prominent aristocratic seats.

Why did the Lobkowiczs lose the castle?

The family's fortunes turned with the political upheaval of the early 17th century. William, heir to Jan the Younger, took part in the 1618 revolt of the Bohemian estates — the uprising that triggered the Thirty Years' War — and was condemned to death for his role in it. The estate was confiscated as a result, and in 1623 it was purchased by Maxmilián of Trauttmansdorff. The Trauttmansdorff family then held the castle for more than three centuries, until 1945, when it passed into state ownership.

What can visitors see today?

Walking through the complex today means walking through layered history: medieval defensive walls, Renaissance living quarters, and additions from later centuries all sit side by side. The interiors preserve furnishings and décor from the centuries when the castle served as an aristocratic family seat, while the surrounding park and outbuildings give a sense of daily life on a historic noble estate. The site's status as a national cultural monument of the Czech Republic reflects its exceptional historical and architectural value.

Frequently asked questions

Who originally built Horšovský Týn Castle? A bishop of Prague had the first fortress built in the 13th century to protect the nearby market settlement of Týn.

Why was the castle never captured during the Hussite Wars? Its position on a rocky spur and strong fortifications allowed it to withstand two 15th-century sieges, though it later suffered heavy damage from an unrelated fire.

What role did the Lobkowicz family play in the castle's history? Under their ownership, starting in 1535, the fire-damaged castle was rebuilt in Renaissance style and became a prestigious noble residence.

What happened to the castle after 1623? Following the confiscation of the Lobkowicz estate, Maxmilián of Trauttmansdorff bought the property, and his family ran it continuously until 1945.

Can the castle be visited today? Yes, it is open to the public as a national cultural monument, showcasing interiors and history spanning multiple generations of owners.