Loket Castle: 10 Amazing Facts, History, Legends, and Films

Loket Castle – One of the Most Picturesque Castles in the Czech Republic

Located just 12 km from the city of Karlovy Vary, Loket Castle is a true gem that deserves your attention and visit.

Perched on a granite rock and surrounded by the Ohře River, which forms a natural “closed” curve symbolizing an elbow (hence the name “Loket,” meaning “elbow”), the castle is nearly impregnable and adds a scenic charm to the area.

The castle and fascinating facts about it are showcased in our 15-minute film about Karlovy Vary, which you can watch at the Feel Karlovy Vary cinema. There, you will also discover other castles, including Bečov, Kynžvart, Teplá Monastery, and more than 20 incredible locations.

Here are 10 of the most amazing facts about Loket Castle:

1. The Oldest Romanesque Castle in the Czech Republic

Loket Castle was built in the 11th century and is considered one of the oldest Romanesque castles in the country. Parts of its fortifications are among the oldest surviving stone walls in the Czech Republic, dating back to the 11th century.

2. The Stone “Meteorite”

The castle museum houses a meteorite that fell near Loket.
Legend has it that a mysterious stone, believed to possess magical powers, was found within the castle walls. This stone, known as the “Loket Meteorite,” became a part of local myths and rituals.

3. The Fire of 1725

In 1725, a significant portion of Loket Castle and the town was destroyed by a major fire. This event marked a turning point in the castle’s history, after which it lost its significance as a residence and was partially converted into a prison.

4. Torture Chambers and Alchemy

The castle’s dungeons include a preserved medieval torture chamber with exhibits of torture instruments. These displays include moving mannequins and sound effects, offering an immersive and chilling experience.

Legends claim that alchemists once resided in the castle, conducting experiments in secret chambers. These tales are supported by the discovery of strange artifacts in the dungeons.

5. A Medieval Legal Hub

During the Middle Ages, Loket Castle served not only as a royal residence but also as an important administrative and judicial center. Court sessions were held here, and vital documents were stored within the castle, including decrees and legal records from the royal administration.

6. Home to the Holy Roman Emperor

Young Charles IV, the future Holy Roman Emperor, spent part of his childhood in Loket Castle, which his father used as a fortress.

7. Ghosts and Legends

The castle is shrouded in numerous ghost stories, including tales of the White Lady, who is said to haunt its halls.

8. A Prison for Noble Captives

In addition to its torture chambers, Loket Castle was used as a prison for high-ranking captives, possibly including Jan Hus, the Czech reformer, though evidence of this remains disputed.

9. Goethe’s Influence on the Castle

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe visited the castle multiple times and was captivated by its beauty. His admiration helped draw attention to the castle’s cultural significance, inspiring restoration efforts in the 19th century. In the town of Loket, a monument commemorates Goethe’s importance to its history.

10. Loket Castle in Film

Loket Castle has been featured in several movies, including Hollywood productions:

• “Casino Royale” (2006)
  In this James Bond film, Loket Castle represents a Montenegrin castle.
• “The Illusionist” (2006)
  Though set in Austria, scenes were filmed in the Czech Republic, including Loket Castle.
• “The Brothers Grimm” (2005)
  The entire film was shot in the Czech Republic, with Loket Castle as one of its key locations.
• “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” (2005)
  Certain scenes were filmed in the Czech Republic, including Loket Castle.
• “Hannibal Rising” (2007)
  Filming took place in various Czech locations, including Loket Castle.

Loket Castle also features prominently in our Feel Karlovy Vary film, which you can watch in the historic center of Karlovy Vary at our cinema.

Visit us to learn more about the wonders of Karlovy Vary and its surroundings. You can also book guided tours to Loket Castle with us!