Žinkovy Castle

Žinkovy Castle is a romantic château in the small town of Žinkovy, in the southern part of the Plzeň Region in Czechia, rising along the shore of a pond amid the gentle hills near the Šumava foothills.

What can you see there?

The present château grew out of a Late Gothic water fortress, first documented in written records in 1525, although the settlement itself traces its roots back to the 12th century. From the mid-15th century the estate belonged to the lords of Klenová, and it was Vilém the Elder of Klenová who, between 1624 and 1642, built the simple two-storey Baroque structure with three wings that forms the core of today's complex. In the 18th century the building was remodeled in Baroque style under Jan František ze Steinau, and further changes followed under the lords of Vrtba, who owned the estate until 1830.

The château's real transformation came at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. In 1883 the estate was purchased by Count Jan Harrach, who carried out repairs and a partial reconstruction of the building. The greatest influence on its current appearance, however, came from architect Karel Wessely, who bought Žinkovy in 1897 and turned the modest Baroque manor into a picturesque, pseudo-historical romantic residence — earning it the nickname "the Romantic Pearl of Bohemia." After Wessely's death the estate briefly passed to Jeroným Colloredo-Mannsfeld, and in 1916 it was bought by the Škoda family, who held it until 1945.

How did the castle end up in popular culture?

During the 20th century Žinkovy served as a recreational retreat, and its picturesque interiors and pond-side setting were used as a filming location for the beloved Czech fairy-tale film "Pyšná princezna" ("The Proud Princess"), well known to generations of Czech audiences. Today the château is a protected cultural monument and one of the emblematic sights of the Plzeň-South region.

How to get there?

Žinkovy lies in the Plzeň-jih district, a short drive from the main tourist routes of the Šumava area, making it a convenient stop between Plzeň and Klatovy. The most practical way to arrive is by car — the town has good links to the local road network, though parking directly by the château can be limited during peak season. Travelers without a car can rely on local bus connections from Plzeň and Nepomuk.

When is the best time to visit?

The ideal season runs from spring through autumn, when the park surrounding the château and the adjoining pond can be enjoyed in full greenery. The romantic architecture is especially striking in the golden afternoon light, reflected in the still water of the pond. It's worth checking the current visiting schedule before arrival, as interior access can vary seasonally.

Frequently asked questions

Is Žinkovy Castle open to visitors? The château functions as a regional tourist attraction, but it's worth checking the official website beforehand for current opening times and interior access.

What architectural style defines the château? The residence combines its original 17th- and 18th-century Baroque layout with a romantic, pseudo-historical remodeling from the late 19th century carried out by architect Karel Wessely.

Is there a place to relax by the water near the château? Yes, the building stands directly on the shore of a pond, making the surroundings a pleasant spot for a walk or a rest in a natural setting.

What connects Žinkovy Castle to Czech cinema? Its interiors and grounds were used as a filming location for the popular Czech fairy-tale film "Pyšná princezna," which continues to draw fans of Czech cinema.