Zamek Zbiroh, Czech Republic

Among the oldest castles in the Czech Republic, one must definitely mention the 13th-century Zbiroh Castle. Literally his name is translated by the Czech as 'collecting the horns'. The history of the castle is incredibly interesting. A legend tells that its founder was the hunter Zbynek Zaits. In the 13th century he lived in this area with his entourage. After sunset the hunters have climbed up to the top of the hill where they have stayed. In the morning they discovered the huge number of deer horns all around.

The hunter built the castle in this place and kept it secrets for centuries. After the other legend, the secret rituals of the Freemason Lodge were performed here. For the first time, the castle was mentioned in 1230. Among his owners there were many outstanding kings, like Ottokar II Přemysl. In the 17th century the old castle belonged to the imperial court and served as a prison for the mostly elevated prisoners.

The last major reconstruction of the castle ended in 2004. After that, Zbiroh Castle was open to the tourists. It is remarkable that the Freemason Lodge also nowadays uses the castle for the most important rituals. On certain days, access to the locksmith's court is forbidden for unauthorized persons. Another interesting feature is the old fountain, situated on the Schlossterritorium, whose depth is 163 meters. It is the deepest fountain in Europe. Some researchers say that on its ground the amber room is hidden. To the beginning - Kisimul Castle