Ceský Krumlov, a small town that lies on a bend of the River Vltava in Southern Bohemia, dates back to the 13th century, when its castle was originally built.
Being a perfect example of an untouched medieval historic centre, with its Renaissance architecture, its amazing small alleys, the wonderful coats of arms that enrich the burghers houses, and its castle, Ceský Krumlov has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
The Rožmberk family, who ruled a large part of South Bohemia, resided in this little town for three centuries. Their fascination for the Italian Renaissance brought them to rebuilt the originally gothic Castle in the Renaissance style during the 16th century.
In the 17th and 18th centuries the castle was modified in the Baroque and the Rococo style.
The Castle Tower is the symbol of Ceský Krumlov’s history and beauty.
After climbing its 162 steps a beautiful view of the city and its vicinity will surprise the visitors.
The Baroque theatre, built in the 17th century, is situated on one of the Castle’s courtyards, and is one of the oldest preserved chateau theatres in Central Europe: the building, the auditorium, the orchestra pit, the stage with its technology and machinery as well as the theatre’s decorations have been preserved in their original state.
Walking around the labyrinth of the town alleyways you can find traditional artisan shops, medieval taverns, ale-houses, galleries as well as old graphite mines, one of which is now an underground museum of mining.
St. Vitus Church shares with the castle the promontory created by the river Vltava, an impressive 
architectural feature that characterizes the town.
It was built as a small church Gothic style between 1407 and 1439 on the foundations of an older building dating from 1309.
The beautiful Gothic portal dates from 1410. In the 17th and 18th centuries the church was then extended and modified, while in the 19th century the original onion-shaped Baroque tower was replaced by an eight sided pseudogothic tower
Full of history and charme, Ceský Krumlov is a lively, cosmopolitan town with a unique atmosphere surrounded by unspoiled countryside. Throughout the year it offers many cultural events, such as FIDELIO classical music concerts, the Five-Petalled Rose Celebrations, an International Music Festival and a festival of Baroque art.
The small cobblestone roads, the old bridges, the cosy inns and coffee shops, the ancient taverns along with its unique fairytale atmosphere all make of Ceský Krumlov one of the secret jewels of Central Europe.
Czech Republic