Cesky Krumlov Castle

Wrapped dramatically around a bend in the Vltava River, the castle of Cesky Krumlov is the second largest castle complex in Czech Republic and one of the most perfectly preserved Renaissance and Baroque ensembles in Central Europe. Together with its surrounding medieval town, it earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1992.

Eight Centuries of History

The history of Cesky Krumlov Castle begins around 1240, when the powerful Witigonen family built a Gothic fortress on this rocky promontory above the Vltava. The location was strategic, controlling important trade routes between Bohemia and the south.

The castle's golden age came under the Rosenberg family, who owned the estate from 1302 to 1602. The Rosenbergs transformed the medieval fortress into a magnificent Renaissance residence, adding the distinctive round tower that has become the town's most recognizable landmark. Their five-petaled rose emblem still adorns buildings throughout the complex.

After the Rosenbergs, the castle passed to the Eggenberg and later Schwarzenberg families, who added Baroque elements and maintained the estate until 1947. Unlike many Czech castles damaged during World War II or the communist period, Cesky Krumlov survived remarkably intact.

The Castle Complex

The castle complex encompasses over 40 buildings and palace structures arranged around five courtyards, covering an area nearly as large as the town itself. Key areas include:

The Round Tower

The most distinctive feature of the castle, this cylindrical tower dates to the 13th century but received its current Renaissance appearance in the 16th century. The elaborate painted decoration, using a technique called sgraffito, creates the illusion of stone masonry. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Castle Museum

Housed in the former Mint, the museum presents the castle's history through artifacts, models, and archaeological finds. Highlights include Renaissance furniture, historical weapons, and items relating to the noble families who shaped the estate.

The Baroque Theater

Perhaps the castle's most remarkable treasure, the Baroque theater built in 1682 is one of only a handful of such theaters to survive in the world with its original stage machinery, backdrops, and costumes intact. The theater could create effects like thunder, lightning, and scene changes that amazed 17th-century audiences. Tours are limited to protect this fragile heritage.

Castle Gardens

The extensive Baroque gardens feature geometric flower beds, fountains, and the unique Rococo summer house called the Bellaria. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the crowds and beautiful views of the castle's southern facade.

The Cloak Bridge

Connecting the upper castle to the theater and gardens, the Cloak Bridge is an architectural marvel spanning a deep ravine. Built in the late 17th century, this three-story covered corridor allowed the nobility to move between castle areas without descending into the town. The bridge offers some of the best views of the castle complex and the red rooftops of the old town below.

Bears of Cesky Krumlov

Since the 16th century, bears have been kept in the castle moat - a tradition connected to the Rosenberg family's legendary origins. According to myth, the family descended from the Italian Orsini family (orso meaning bear in Italian). Today, visitors can still see brown bears in the moat near the first courtyard, though the practice remains somewhat controversial among animal welfare advocates.

Exploring the Town

The castle cannot be fully appreciated without exploring the medieval town that surrounds it. The town center, also protected by UNESCO, features centuries-old houses, winding cobblestone streets, and the iconic view of the castle tower from the Vltava riverbank. In summer, visitors can float through town on the Vltava - a unique perspective on the castle's dramatic setting.

Tips for Your Visit

• The town gets very crowded in summer - consider visiting in spring or early fall
• Book the Baroque theater tour well in advance - spaces are limited to protect the historic interior
• Allow at least a full day to explore both castle and town properly
• The climb to the round tower is worth the effort for the views
• Evening is magical as the crowds thin and the castle lights up
• Consider staying overnight to experience the town without day-trippers

Nearby Attractions

Cesky Krumlov makes an excellent base for exploring South Bohemia. Nearby attractions include the castle of Hluboka (often called the Czech Windsor), the historic town of Ceske Budejovice, and the Sumava National Park offering hiking and nature experiences.

Last updated: February 2, 2026