Lapidarium

A Baroque collection of sculptures created by Matthias Bernard Braun and his workshop. It is located in the gardens of Valeč Chateau and is one of the largest and best-preserved collections in Bohemia. We owe its existence to the owners at the time, the Globen family, who invited the sculptor to Valeč on the recommendation of Count Špork. Braun had just completed a monumental commission for him: the allegories of the Virtues and Vices at the Kuks Hospital. In Valeč, he continued with a series of 21 mythological scenes and a smaller collection known as the 'Society of Count Špork', a tribute arranged for the Count by Jan Ferdinand Krager of Globen. In the 19th century, the neat and meticulously composed Baroque French garden was transformed into a playful English park. Following a devastating fire at the chateau in 1976, the original sculptures were replaced with copies. However, these copies still form the centrepiece of the entire complex, allowing visitors to experience the Baroque period authentically with all their senses. The restored originals have since been moved to the chateau's forge, where a modern Lapidarium has been established for them. You are listening to a guide who will not only provide a detailed tour on-site but will also accompany you on your further travels.