The castle complex of Benešov nad Ploučnicí is a hidden gem of northern Bohemia — seven historic buildings including the Upper Castle, the Lower Castle with its three palaces, a church and a chapel. It's one of the finest Renaissance ensembles in the country, declared a National Cultural Monument in 2001.

Wandering through its courtyards, past Gothic donkey-back gables and Renaissance oriel windows, feels like stepping straight into the 16th century, when the noble Salhausen family turned this small town into a true seat of power. The town sits in the valley of the Ploučnice River, framed by the gentle hills of the Bohemian Uplands (České středohoří) — a lovely backdrop whether you visit in summer, when the courtyard buzzes with guided tours, or in autumn, when the surrounding hillsides blaze with color.

How to get there

• Town centre of Benešov nad Ploučnicí — the castle stands directly on Náměstí Míru square, just a few minutes' walk from central parking, easy route
• The Lower and Upper Castles are linked by a covered corridor running along the enclosure wall, so both can be visited in one trip

Practical information

• The complex is state-owned and managed by the National Heritage Institute (NPÚ)
• Open to the public via guided tours
• The Upper Castle features a gallery and tourist information point
• The Lower Castle suffered a fire in 1969 but has since been fully restored

Fun fact: the town's coat of arms still recalls the Michalovice family, who granted Benešov its town rights back in 1392.