On Friday, June 4, a new exhibition called The Pernstein Women and Europe opened for visitors at Nelahozeves Castle. The exhibition, created by Pavel Marek from the University of Pardubice and Tomáš Libánek from the East Bohemian Museum in Pardubice, explores the fascinating role of women from the Czech aristocratic Pernstein family, who had a significant influence on European diplomacy. The exhibition will also include samples of period clothing prepared by Martina Hřibová from Tomas Bata University in Zlín and a unique jewelry collection entitled “Jewel for Lobkowicz,” created by students from the Faculty of Design and Art of Ladislav Sutnar at the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen.

Women associated with the Czech aristocratic Pernstein family formed marriages with important European families beginning in the 17th century—spanning Madrid, Naples, and Prague. Fifteen original panels on display, some of which contain interactive elements, will offer visitors insight into this interconnected history and how Pernstein women influenced European politics and culture, including fashion and dining habits at aristocratic courts. Given their connections to Spain, examples of Spanish period dress prepared by renowned expert Martina Hřibová are also on display and convey the history of noblewomen fashion.

In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to visit rooms in the castle's north wing, which are typically not accessible to public. One of the rooms includes the Knight‘s Hall, which depicts 16th-century frescoes of Roman mythical warriors. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the hall was used mainly for ceremonial occasions. The same is true today, when the space comes to life with wedding ceremonies, banquets or gala dinners.

Due to high demand, the exhibition has been extended and will be open Tuesdays–Sundays from 9:00 to 17:00 and will run until October 31, 2021.