What is the Kynžvart Cabinet of Curiosities?

Chancellor Metternich started this collection in the 19th century. He was a key figure in European politics. He used his influence to gather items from around the world. The cabinet is more than just a museum. It reflects the curiosity of the Enlightenment era. You will see how science and art met in the past.

The chateau itself is a beautiful Neoclassical building. It sits within a large English-style park. Most visitors come for the history and the atmosphere. The cabinet is the main draw for many tourists. It houses over 2,000 items in several themed rooms. This is a great stop if you follow a Kynžvart Chateau visiting guide.

Before you dive into the list, check these quick picks:

• Best for families: The Mummy of Pentahut-Res
• Best for history buffs: The Table of Peace
• Best for unique photos: The Mechanical Orchestrion
• Best free activity: Walking the Chateau Park

9 Kynžvart Chateau Cabinet of Curiosities Highlights

The collection is vast and varied. It covers everything from ancient history to personal relics. Each item has a story that connects to global events. Here are the top Kynžvart Chateau cabinet of curiosities highlights you cannot miss.

1. Name: Mummy of Pentahut-Res Type: Ancient artifact Why go: This is one of the best-preserved mummies in Central Europe. It dates back thousands of years to Ancient Egypt. Best for: History lovers Where: Egyptology room Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Look closely at the intricate hieroglyphics on the wooden sarcophagus.
2. Name: The Table of Peace Type: Diplomatic relic Why go: This table was used during the Congress of Vienna. It represents the end of the Napoleonic Wars. Best for: Political history buffs Where: Main hall Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Imagine the world leaders who sat around this very piece of furniture.
3. Name: Napoleon’s Personal Prayer Book Type: Historical relic Why go: Metternich was a rival of Napoleon but respected him. He kept several of the Emperor's personal items. Best for: Fans of French history Where: Napoleonic collection Time: 5 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Check for the small handwritten notes in the margins.
4. Name: The Last Executioner’s Sword Type: Macabre object Why go: This sword belonged to Karl Huss, the last executioner of Cheb. He was also a famous collector of curiosities. Best for: Fans of dark history Where: Huss collection room Time: 10 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Ask the guide about the symbolic engravings on the blade.
5. Name: The Mechanical Orchestrion Type: Musical instrument Why go: This rare 19th-century machine plays music using complex gears. It is a masterpiece of early engineering. Best for: Music and tech fans Where: Music room Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: If you are lucky, the guide might play a short melody for you.
6. Name: Metternich’s Giant Library Type: Indoor sight Why go: It contains over 12,000 rare books and manuscripts. The room itself is a stunning example of Neoclassical design. Best for: Book lovers Where: Library wing Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Look for the massive globes that show how people saw the world in 1820.
7. Name: The Mineral Collection Type: Nature/Science Why go: This collection shows the scientific interests of the 1800s. It features rare stones from across the Austrian Empire. Best for: Science enthusiasts Where: Natural history section Time: 15 minutes Cost: Included in tour Tip: Notice how the specimens are organized by their chemical properties.
8. Name: Loket Castle Type: Day trip Why go: This medieval fortress is just a short drive away. It offers amazing views and a dark dungeon museum. Best for: Families and photographers Where: Loket town Time: 3-4 hours Cost: 150-250 CZK Tip: Visit Loket Castle after your chateau tour for a full day of history.
9. Name: Marianske Lazne Colonnade Type: Experience Why go: This nearby spa town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architecture is grand and very relaxing. Best for: Relaxation Where: Marianske Lazne Time: 2-3 hours Cost: Free to walk Tip: Try the local spring water at Marianske Lazne while you explore.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Planning a trip to Kynžvart is easy from Karlovy Vary. The best way to get there is by car or train. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Bohemian countryside. You can check schedules at the Karlovy Vary railway station. Most tours are guided, so booking ahead is smart.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds. The chateau park is quite large and worth exploring. Photography is often limited inside the cabinet rooms. Always ask your guide before taking pictures of the mummies. This ensures you follow the local rules and respect the artifacts.

The chateau is usually open from April to October. In 2026, expect higher visitor numbers during the summer months. Arriving early in the morning helps you avoid the largest crowds. If you have extra time, explore other places to visit near Karlovy Vary for a complete trip.