Hrad Bítov.

Hrad Bítov - Bitov Castle, Bítov, Jihomoravský kraj, Česká republika.

   The Armory is housed in the original 18th-century building. The core of the collection is made up of weapons, particularly from the time the castle belonged to the Jankowski family of Vlašim (1612-1752). In addition to older works by prominent gunsmiths from the late 16th century, the collection primarily features excellent works by 17th-century masters (replica weapons, butts, air rifles, and windbreakers). The Armory also contains a selection of medieval weapons (spears (11th century), swords (15th century), and fortification rifles). The core of the eastern section consists primarily of objects from the Islamic world.

   The core of the armory consists of weapons acquired from the arsenal of Mikuláš Zrinski, a Croatian count who fell in defense of the Sighet fortress against the Turks. The Armory is characterized by a romantic layout, evoking the illusion of the knights' halls of medieval castles. In addition to their interest in finely crafted, representative weapons, the Jankowski family was also interested in technically innovative, unusual firearms designs. Many of the marksmen and decorators also worked at the court of Emperor Rudolf II. We highly recommend a tour through this unique part of our past.