In a typical Czech town of Benatky nad Jizerou travelers come to visit a large local castle. Now the building of the Palace given over to the Museum of local lore, but there were times when under its arches music thundered, were held balls and even made astronomical discoveries.

The castle was built on the site of a medieval fortress in 1526-1527. From the finish of that time have survived tiles, which was covered by a painting in the style of sgraffito, very fashionable in the sixteenth century. The Palace was spacious, comfortable, suitable for a comfortable stay and was looked after by the Emperor Rudolf II. In his opinion, the best place for his friend and court alchemist Tycho Brahe was not found. Astronomer settled here and began to build the castle. For a start was equipped laboratory and started the construction of the Observatory. It was a blessed place, where did any of your undertakings. For example, there has been invented a cure for the plague. Helped it or not, no one really can not say, but all the locals firmly believed in its power. Tycho Brahe was visited by many famous personalities, among whom was Johannes Kepler.

One of the exhibits in the castle is dedicated to the life of the great alchemist and astronomer. Another exhibition contains exhibits telling about the life of composer B. Smetana in a local castle.

In addition to the castle, the town has a Museum of toys, which will certainly appeal to children from 2 to 14 years and adults will be interesting to see antique dolls and cars. As in any Czech town, there are also several temples, worthy of attention.