Grottoes

Artificial caves, known as grottoes, are a unique phenomenon of early modern architecture. Since the Renaissance, they have been built in gardens or on the ground floors of aristocratic residences, creating an illusory world that mimics nature. Grottoes primarily provided visitors with coolness and refreshment on hot summer days. In addition, they also offered a spectacle full of surprising effects, such as various fountains, hidden water features with unexpectedly gushing springs, and flashes of light reflecting off sparkling minerals. However, such caves were not intended solely for entertainment, but usually had a deeper symbolic or philosophical meaning.

At the end of the 17th century, Bishop Karl von Liechtenstein-Castelcorn had two grottoes built in the basement of the Kroměříž Chateau, which are among the most unusual in Europe, mainly due to their unique decoration. The Kroměříž Grottoes are completely unique in Europe, as the bishop had several tons of amethysts brought in from Květnice Hill near Tišnov to decorate them. The precious stones, together with other minerals, shells, and pebbles, created a dazzling scene designed to appeal to the human senses. These two grottoes, called the Apollo’s Grotto and the Mining Grotto, represent two completely different worlds, which together create an extraordinary interplay of meanings.