Between the 17th and 20th centuries, the ruling dukes of Liechtenstein transformed their domains into one large park, where the baroque and neo-gothic architecture of the castles meet with the small outbuildings in the romantic style and the countryside fashioned according to the English principles of landscaping. This whole extensive area (ideal for hiking and cykling) is protected by UNESCO since 1996. Lednice Chateau is a remarkable testimony to aristocratic culture in the area of Romanticism. The originally Renaissance chateau was converted into Neo-Gothic residence (1846-1858) with romantic interiors by the Prince of Liechtenstein. Valtice is a large Baroque chateau complex, former residence of the Lichtenstein family with splendidly furnished interiors. Artistically, the most precious parts of the chateau are the chapel, with fine stuccowork and paintwork, the marble dining hall, and the Spanish Stable with valuable rococo stoves. Valtice lies in the very heart of the Moravian winegrowing region.
