Troja Chateau, Prague

Troja Château, among Prague's most captivating summer residences, was erected for the influential Šternberg family in the late 17th century. Standing out against its rust-hued Baroque facade are the impressive balustrades adorned with fierce depictions of giants and titans in battle. Inside, the grand hall is a spectacle of gushing frescoes portraying the victories of Habsburg Emperor Leopold I over the Turks, intricately covering every surface. Some frescoes employ illusionist techniques, glorifying the history of the Habsburg Dynasty in triumphant narratives. Additionally, visitors can stroll through the chateau's immaculate French-style formal gardens, a pioneering feature in Bohemia.

The staircase linking the palace to the gardens is the collaborative effort of two Dresden sculptors, Johann Georg and Paul Heermann, who crafted statues depicting the mythical conflict between gods and giants. Adorning the terrace is a unique collection of vases by Bombelli, while the garden's central axis offers a captivating view toward the spires of Saint Vitus Cathedral at Prague Castle.