Bečov nad Teplou

Bečov nad Teplou Castle and Chateau

Two residences, one unforgettable view
Above the valley of the Teplá River rises a unique pair of monuments – a Gothic castle from the 14th century and, below it, a Baroque chateau, which together form one of the most picturesque sites in the Karlovy Vary Region. The castle has kept its medieval appearance without later alterations, offering an authentic glimpse into the life of the nobility seven centuries ago. The chateau, in turn, recalls the era of the Questenberg and Beaufort-Spontin families, who lived here until the end of the Second World War. Guided tours take you into the castle chapel, the living quarters and the chateau salons, and the ramparts open up a beautiful view of the town and the surrounding hills of the Slavkov Forest.

Reliquary of St. Maurus

A national treasure hidden beneath the floor
The greatest attraction of the Bečov chateau is the Reliquary of St. Maurus – a Romanesque goldsmith's masterpiece from the early 13th century, considered the most valuable movable monument in the Czech Republic after the Crown Jewels. Its story reads like an adventure novel: before leaving Bečov, the Beaufort-Spontin family hid it beneath the floor of the castle chapel, where it lay forgotten for decades. It was only in 1985 that detectives tracked it down, following a strange offer from an American businessman who wanted to "dig something up" in Czechoslovakia. After extensive restoration, the reliquary is now displayed in its own exhibition, where you can admire the gilded reliefs, precious stones and finely crafted figures of saints.

Bečov Botanical Garden

The forgotten garden of Duke Beaufort
On the slope above the Teplá River lies a place with an extraordinary history. The Bečov Botanical Garden was founded in the 1920s by Duke Heinrich Beaufort-Spontin and was once among the most important collection gardens in Central Europe. It fell into neglect and became overgrown after the war, but today, thanks to dedicated enthusiasts, it is gradually being brought back to life. You can stroll among the alpine garden, ponds and tree collection, sit on a bench with a view of the castle, or let the kids enjoy the space for picnics and games. The garden is perfect for a quiet afternoon once the tours are done and you just want to unwind