The medieval town of Cesky Krumlov is located in Southern Bohemia, near the border of Austria, in the foothills of the Blanský Forest Nature Reserve. The Vltava River coils around the town like a snake. With a wide array of historical attractions, art galleries, shops, and restaurants to choose from, Cesky Krumlov makes an ideal day trip for visitors basing themselves in Prague.
Medieval Town Center
The medieval center of Cesky Krumlov is full of winding, cobbled streets, traditional Bohemian homes, small shops and art galleries, and restaurants serving Czech delicacies such as goulash, sweet and savory dumplings, and fried cheese. The medieval town hall is the centerpiece of this old part of town and includes a Museum of Torture, which is open to the public. Shops offer a selection of unique Czech gifts, such as Bohemian crystal, marionettes and other wooden toys, and jewelry. Cesky Krumlov is famous for selling a rare gemstone that is found almost exclusively in the regions of Bohemia and Moravia, with only occasional finds in Germany and Austria: moldavite. Formed by a meteorite impact, this dull green stone is used to make stunning rings, necklaces, and earrings and is often accented with bright garnet gems.
Cesky Krumlov Castle
Dating back to the early thirteenth century, the impressive castle complex seems carved into the rocks upon which it is perched, dominating the town skyline and surrounding countryside. It is the second-largest castle in the Czech Republic, next to Prague's Hradcany castle complex, and one of the largest castles in central Europe. Over forty buildings make up the castle complex, including the world's best-preserved Baroque theatre, a former brewery, and an old pharmacy. The castle is also famous for its bear moat, where bears have been bred since the sixteenth century.
Church of St. Vitus
The Gothic Church of St. Vitus is another famous town landmark and dates back to the fourteenth century. Ornate frescoes and intricately-carved altars decorate the sanctuary. The church is still in use, and classical music concerts are sometimes produced there.
Brewery Eggenberg
The Czech Republic is world-renowned for its pivo, or beer. The Eggenberg Brewery has been brewing beer in Cesky Krumlov since 1630, although records show that beer-making has been a part of the town's history since the 1300s. The Eggenberg Brewery produces five types of beer, as well as a number of non-alcoholic sodas and tonics. Visitors can arrange a guided tour of the brewery and cap off the day with a visit to its 150-seat beer hall and restaurant.
Graphite Mine
Cesky Krumlov has a long history of mining. The year 1475 marks the oldest written record of mining within the region; at that time, silver, gold, and other precious metals were the main focus. Graphite mining became significant in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Today, visitors can tour the town's underground graphite mine. Tours are available in English, Czech, and German, and clothing, shoes, and protective equipment are provided by the mine.
Other Activities
Outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers will find plenty to do in the surrounding countryside, including hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, skiing, golfing, and horseback riding. The town is also home to a number of museums, galleries, theatres, and concert halls, with several exciting festivals and cultural events held frequently throughout the year.
References:
Official site of Cesky Krumlov
To read more about day trips from Prague, see Kutna Hora, Czech Republic.
 |
 |
 |
