Swanson School of Engineering

Today morning, we traveled by train to visit Karlštejn Castle. The walk to the castle was all up hill, so it was a bit tiring. However, we stopped for coffee and sweet treats (dort) along the way so that made it better. On the guided tour of the castle, we learned that King Charles IV built the castle as a safe place to store the Crown Jewels. He placed the jewels near the top of the tallest tower, which was heavily reinforced and guarded. In its history, the castle was attacked only twice, and both times the invaders were unsuccessful due to the castle’s strategic location and design. What stood out to me the most about Karlštejn was how well thought out the entire compound was. First of all, it was placed at the top of a tall hill so that soldiers defending the castle can see the enemy coming in advance. Also, the tall tower where the jewels were stored had a bathroom up there for the guards so that they wouldn’t have any excuse to step away from their post. Additionally, the castle tower had seven meter thick walls to protect it from flying projectile attacks. And finally, there was a church in the center of the compound for convenience. The only question I have left is how long it took for people to design and construct the tower. I guess I can google that later. But overall, I had a great time visiting Karlštejn castle, and would highly recommend it if you ever visit Prague.