Grottoes, or artificial caves designed to imitate nature, were very popular among the European aristocracy during the Baroque period. Due to their water features and cool temperatures, they served as places for summer refreshment and entertainment, and their imaginative artistic decoration usually held some allegorical meaning. At the end of the 17th century, Bishop Karl von Liechtenstein-Castelcorn had two grottoes built in the Kroměříž Chateau, using several tons of amethysts for their decoration. Owing to their extraordinary decoration, these grottoes, called the Apollo’s Grotto and the Mining Grotto, are completely unique in Europe.
Grottoes
1. grotto
Apollo's Grotto
The Apollo’s Grotto in the Kroměříž Chateau, named after the ancient god of the Sun, combines the dazzling sparkle of amethysts, water features, and light with deep symbolism. Its decoration commemorates the role of Bishop Karl von Liechtenstein-Castelcorn as a bearer of light and faith in the dark times of recatholicization.
2. grotto
Mining Grotto
The Mining Grotto in the Kroměříž Chateau is completely unique in Europe. Its decoration imitates an underground mine, where amethysts and other precious stones sparkle among statues of miners and animals. This space combines symbolic meaning with an impressive theater of light and reflections designed to amaze visitors.
