Kids Adore Castle and Chateau Museums – Which Are the Top Picks?
Museum of the New Generation in Žďár nad Sázavou
This museum is the first one featured in our showcase that is located inside a castle or monastery. Its history isn’t just linked to the efforts of Emperor Joseph II., but is also tied to the devastating fire that burned down the Cistercian monastery in Žďár nad Sázavou back in 1784. The abbot at that time asked the emperor for permission to dissolve the monastery. While initially, the emperor believed the building could be saved and remained hopeful for its restoration, the new owners quickly turned the monastery into a castle. However, it’s somewhat misleading to entirely blame the Josephine reforms for everything that happened afterwards. Currently, the area that once housed the monastery and was later transformed into a castle is under the ownership of the Kinsky family, who have established the Museum of the New Generation there. Don’t let the historical theme deter you; this museum is packed with modern technology and interactive audio-visual displays. In the exhibitions, you will encounter key historical figures from the monastery’s past, including Abbot Vejmluva and the architect Santini. The museum, along with the café, welcomes visitors every day except Mondays, and you can freely explore the entire castle grounds. There are also lovely trails around the Convent Pond and Bran Pond, complete with a variety of bridges and scenic viewpoints, plus you can hike up to the pilgrimage church of St. John of Nepomuk on Zelená hora, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Website: https://zamekzdar.cz
Silesian Ostrava Castle in Ostrava
The Silesian Ostrava Castle is a delightful destination for you and your children, and it is the oldest surviving civil structure in Ostrava. Within the 13th chamber, past the treasury, there is an intriguing room filled with torture devices and a photo corner. Here, you can see replicas of various medieval torture devices, such as the pillory, the cage, and the log; not only can you look at them but you can even try them for yourself! The Armorial room, previously known as the Hunting Lounge, is located on the 1st floor of the castle palace. This area showcases the coats of arms belonging to the castle’s past owners, and children can even paint their own coat of arms. You can capture a fun photo of yourself sitting on a throne as if you’re a king or queen! Additionally, there is a Forge near the large terrace where you may come across an actual blacksmith and learn about this fascinating craft. In the cellar, there’s an engaging exhibition titled “Land on the Horizon” that transports you into the life of one of the 19th century’s prominent noblemen, unveiling the intriguing links between his adventurous existence and the funding of the expedition that led to the discovery of Franz Josef Land in the far north.
Website: www.slezskoostravskyhrad.cz
Teddy Bear Kingdom in Ledeč nad Sázavou
Ledeč nad Sázavou Castle offers a unique experience for children known as the Teddy Bear Kingdom. Guided by an expert, young visitors on this special tour will discover an enormous toy collection, with teddy bears taking center stage. Here, you’ll find more than 1,000 teddy bears, ranging from the oldest to the latest designs. The exhibition extends into the historical cellar, where the horned Krampuses reside. During the tour, you also have the chance to step out onto the South Parkán, providing stunning views of the town, and kids can enjoy running through a small bush maze. The castle is open on weekends in March, April, and October, and on all days except Mondays during other months. Older children, especially fans of Foglar’s books, will enjoy visiting the Jaroslav Foglar Museum.
Website: www.hrad-ledec.cz
Children’s Circuit at Radim Castle
At Radim Castle, situated between Český Brod and Kolín, visitors can explore Renaissance interiors along with original black cuisine. For the little ones, there is a special children’s circuit, which includes a tour of the princesses’ bedroom, the common room, and the wizard’s chamber. Kids can even rent stylish period costumes for a more immersive experience. For art enthusiasts and local patriots, Radim Castle features a picture gallery on the third level, showcasing works primarily by Czech artists from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Tours typically start at 11:00, 13:00, and 15:00. Since trains to Radim arrive just after the hour, and it takes only about two minutes to walk from the station to the castle, the guides are always accommodating and wait a few extra minutes for visitors coming from the train.
Website: www.zamek-radim.cz
Playroom at Mladá Boleslav Castle
The Museum of Mladá Boleslav warmly invites all children to explore the second floor of Mladá Boleslav Castle, where they will discover a space brimming with playful activities. In the museum’s playroom, children can construct a model of the castle or engage in a game centered on the town’s history, called Old Secrets of Mladá Boleslav. For kids who enjoy drawing and being creative, the studio offers a selection of coloring books and cut-out crafts. Young adventurers and explorers can interact with our tactile board featuring exhibits designed for touching, as well as mechanical typewriters for hands-on experience. The youngest visitors can enjoy a rest area filled with large blocks to play with. Furthermore, the playroom includes self-service boxes with exciting tasks related to archaeology and ethnography.
Website: www.mladoboleslavsko.eu
