The Czech Republic has seven national traditions entered on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage and the latest one entered in 2021 is Falconry. The art of falconry goes back to over 4000 years, but it is interesting how it is still kept alive in Czech Republic in various castles.
Falcons and Hawks were used in medieval times in hunting and to bring back prey that were shot down by hunters. These were trained birds and were a symbol of power and pride. The art of falconry goes back to over 4000 years, but it is interesting how it is still kept alive in Czech Republic in various castles. Falconry demonstrations can be seen in the courtyards of Bohemian and Moravian castles like Sychrov, Točník, Český Šternberk, Kost, Dobříš, Ohrada and Křivoklát. But Prague Castle has a cool tour of the Falconer’s house.
The falconer’s house (Dům sokolníka) is located in the yard opposite the Riding Hall of Prague Castle. It is a small one-story building with a wooden barn. There is an exhibition in the house that evokes the life of its first resident, who was a falconer in the 17th century who took care of hunting birds and songbirds at the yard.
There is a furnished study and bedroom in the house, and a short film about falconry is part of the tour. All falconry equipment can be seen in the study, such as gloves, a bag, special perches or caps. In the bedroom it is possible to admire hunting weapons, e.g. crossbow, bow or spear.
A tour of the House of the Falconer is possible only on the basis of prior reservation. It is an accompanied tour with interpretation by a guide from the Prague Castle Administration. Tickets for the tour can be purchased at the info center on III. courtyard. Tour price for individuals: CZK 50, entrance fee for booked schools: CZK 10 per pupil.
A list of upcoming Falconry demonstrations in various castles in Czech Republic.