A Haunting History: Unveiling the Dark Side of the Czech Republic
This blog post is written by Barbora Koskova, our Marketing Intern from the Czech Republic.
A Haunting History: Unveiling the Dark Side of the Czech Republic
As someone who was born and still lives in the Czech Republic, I am here to tell you something about Czech places that carry a dark history with them. These places are not that scary because of their appearance, but because of the urban legends that are told about them. If you're like me and enjoy dark history, you should definitely check them out soon!
The castle “Houska”
The most well-known legend associated with the castle is that it has a direct passage to hell that is located underground. This castle is rumoured to be haunted by demons and ghosts once their time comes, and the passage to...well, let's just say it's not one-way. If you're interested in exploring it, I recommend visiting sooner rather than later – it closes earlier than the others. Also if you are brave enough you might want to check that passage out, but do not let them take you. You don't have to worry though I went there on my own skin and I'm still here.
Sedlec Ossuary
This place is close to a more known city called Kutná Hora. While Kutná Hora has an eerie atmosphere, Sedlec Ossuary is truly unsettling. Have you ever visited the catacombs in Paris? Or the Chapel of Bones in Portugal? Well Sedlec Ossuary is a building completely made of bones. These bones belong to 70 000 poor people that died during the plague. Everything is made of the bones of real people. Even the chandelier. Knowing these aren't props, but the remains of countless souls, is what makes this place so terrifying. If you visit this place, remember the rules and do not take pictures.
The Lemberk mansion
This gothic mansion was built in the 13th century. It's very common to encounter ghosts in this mansion. They are usually followed by decreasing temperature and sudden cold. However you can see them too. Eerie, blurred shapes flit through the mansion's halls daily, accompanied by wisps of unnatural fog. Many witnessed doors opening and closing on their own. Same thing with windows too. I can't forget. Deep within the mansion lies a chamber shrouded in mystery. Unexplained footsteps echo through the halls, and flickering candles dance without a hint of breeze.
The Křivoklát Castle
This castle is actually the oldest castle in the Czech republic. This castle is a magnet for bad luck. This statement comes from the fact that this place burned down countless times. And since this place was used as a prison a lot of prisoners died during these unexplainable fires. A lesser-known legend whispers about the secrets this place holds.The secret states that the souls of dead prisoners still haunt the halls of this castle. The whispers aren't as loud as those surrounding Lemberk, but there's a persistent chill in the air. Many residents report an unsettling feeling of unseen eyes following their every move.
The “Bor” forest
Last but definitely not least is the Bor forest in the very south of Czech republic. Feeling brave? This place is crawling with the whispers of the unknown. Expect strange footsteps, disembodied voices, and a constant sense of being watched. Even though you might be as tough as you want, you really shouldn't walk around this forest alone. Bring a friend or someone who you know and trust. They say people aren't themselves when they leave this place. And that's just the beginning. The stories are so terrifying that some of the people who experienced them left the forest with completely grey hair.
So will you visit them? You really should. The Czech Republic is a fascinating country with a blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you're seeking spooky legends or a charming travel experience, it has something to offer. You wont regret it. I promise.
