Between silence and silence - Český Krumlov

In 1977, at the festival in Sopot, Helena Vondračka sang a song about a jug from the Krumlov castle. Back then, the Czech city became known to a wider audience, and today in summer there are so many tourists that you have to squeeze between them.

There are places where you can feel history at every turn. They are full of life, and at the same time as if suspended in time - just enter one of the lazily winding streets to find out about it. The specific atmosphere is filled with the smell of coffee, muffled conversations and the silence of historic tenement houses looking with dignity at busy passers-by.

Such a city is Český Krumlov, situated about 400 km from Ostrava, on the bank of the Vltava River. One of the richest families in the Czech kingdom, Rožmberk, chose it for its seat. For more than five centuries, the city developed avoiding historical turmoil. As a result, many buildings have survived there to this day, and the confirmation of their value is the inclusion of the historic center on the UNESCO World Heritage List (in 1992).

On the guard of the city - protection on four legs

Český Krumlov was built around a 13th-century castle standing on a coastal rock. In the past, it was used to protect the ford across the river, and today it towers over the city as its greatest attraction. The complex of castle buildings is the second largest Czech complex (after Prague's Prague Castle). This is a must see when visiting the city.

Before visiting the castle cloisters, visitors will see something unusual - a moat with bears . They are the hallmark of the city, and tourists who observe them constantly break the ban on feeding and throw treats to the teddy bears. After all, they must have the strength to defend the castle - just like they used to.

Baroque theater

After crossing the gate, visitors will see a series of beautiful historic buildings interspersed with equally beautiful courtyards. Those who want to get to know the nooks and crannies of the castle can choose one of several available routes. They will see, among others a ballroom with eye-catching rich decorations, as well as a unique attraction - the baroque theater . It is one of the best-preserved buildings of this type in the world. It has existed unchanged since 1766 and the original lighting, curtain, costumes and backstage have been preserved to this day.

After a walk in the historic interiors, it's time to climb the Castle Tower. Admission to it is paid - it costs 50 crowns. From the top there is a wonderful view of the old town, connected with the castle by a small bridge. Later, you can change the perspective and sit in the original revolving audience. You can see from it not only the fairy-tale gardens of the castle (they occupy an area of 11 hectares), but also performances that are often held here.

Walk in Český Krumlov

The castle is undoubtedly the biggest, but not the only attraction of the city. After passing the bridge, we get to the aforementioned old part, where there are a lot of cafes and restaurants. Some of them are located in former burgher houses, so in addition to exquisite cuisine, they offer guests cozy interiors decorated with a great sense of taste.

It is worth paying attention to the town hall, as well as the gothic church of St. Greets. Mariánský Sloup, a Marian pillar, built in the 18th century in gratitude for the end of the plague, is also beautiful.

If someone is planning to visit Cesky Krumlov passing through and looking for accommodation close to the city, he can stay at Camping & Apartment Paradijs . It is located about 6 km east of Krumlov. One day of stay costs CZK 90-110 (PLN 14-17), and a parking space for a motorhome - CZK 80 (PLN 12). After the rest, you can continue to meet Czech monuments.