Fodor's Expert Review Statní zámek Telč

This Gothic castle was transformed into a refined Renaissance château by Italian masters between 1553 and 1568. Grouped in a complex with the former Jesuit college and Kostel sv. Jakuba (Church of St. James), the castle was built during the 14th century, perhaps by King John of Luxembourg, the father of Charles IV. In season you can tour the castle and admire the rich Renaissance interiors. The chastising sgraffito relief in the dining room depicting gluttony (in addition to the six other deadly sins) seems oddly placed. Other interesting rooms with sgraffiti include the Treasury, the Armory, and the Blue and Gold Chambers. There are two tours: the first, Tour A, goes through the Renaissance chambers and is available in English; the second, Tour B, displays the rooms that were used as recently as 1945 but is available only in Czech. The castle basement and gardens are also accessible.