Eastern and Central Europe (Eyewitness Travel Guides)

(Ben Green) #1

Castles and Fortresses


The history of Eastern and Central Europe is one of
shifting borders and military conquests. It is no surprise,
there fore, that castles and fortresses are a ubiquitous
feature of the landscape. Many of the castles became
aristo cratic residences once their military role was over
and were often furnished lavishly by their owners. In
mod ern times, a large number of the for tresses have
been restored by govern ments eager to showcase their
coun try’s rich past. They now house some of the
region’s most prestigious museums, offering a good
opportunity to understand the local history and culture.

28 EASTERN AND CENTRAL EUROPE AT A GLANCE


Tvrđa
Built by the Austrians to serve as their military
command centre in South Eastern Europe, the
fort of Tvrđa (see p496) in Osijek is a virtual
city-within-a-city. Complete with squares,
mansions and churches, it is one of the best-
preserved Baroque ensembles in the continent.

Karlštejn
Residence of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV,
Karlštejn Castle (see pp260–61) sym bolizes the
power and influ ence enjoyed by medie val Czech
rulers. Paint ings in the castle’s chapel represent
one of the high points of Gothic art.

Malbork
A religious and political
centre, Malbork Castle
(see p207) was built to
serve as the capital of the
Teutonic knights,
the Germanic cru sa ders
who carved out an
empire in North Eastern
Europe. The castle
contains an imposing
medieval church.

0 km

0 miles

250

250

BALTIC
SEA

POLAND

CZECH
REPUBLIC

SLOVAKIA

BOSNIA AND
HERZEGOVINA

HUNGARY

Vienna

CROATIA

AUSTRIA

SLOVENIA

MONTENEGRO

A
D
R
IA
T
IC

(^)
(^) S
E
A

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