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Český Krumlov Castle Tower: A Medieval Sentinel

Ascend Český Krumlov's iconic Castle Tower for panoramic views and a glimpse into centuries of Bohemian history and architectural grandeur.

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Dominating the Český Krumlov skyline, the Castle Tower is a symbol of the town's rich history and architectural beauty. Originally built in the 13th century and later enhanced in the Renaissance style, the tower offers panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage site and the Vltava River.

A brief summary to Český Krumlov Castle Tower

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Climb the 162 steps to the top for rewarding panoramic views of Český Krumlov and the surrounding area.
  • Visit the Castle Museum inside the tower to explore exhibits related to the castle's history and former noble residents.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Combine your visit to the tower with a tour of the Český Krumlov Castle complex for a comprehensive experience.
  • Purchase a ČK Card for access to the Castle Museum and Tower, as well as other attractions in Český Krumlov.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Český Krumlov Castle Tower is located within the Český Krumlov Castle complex, easily accessible on foot from the town center. From náměstí Svornosti (the main square), walk towards the castle, crossing the Lazebnický Bridge. Follow the path through the castle courtyards; the tower entrance will be clearly marked. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes for a leisurely walk from the square to the tower. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus to the Český Krumlov Central Bus Station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the castle area. Bus line 853 runs from the bus station to Český Krumlov. Get off at a stop near the castle, such as 'Český Krumlov, Špičák'. From there, it's a short walk to the castle grounds. A single bus fare costs approximately 75-110 CZK. Alternatively, a taxi from the bus station to the castle will cost around 55-70 CZK.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking lots are available near the historic center. Parking lots P1 (Jelenka) and P4 (Castle Garden) offer convenient access to the castle. P1 is located beneath the northern castle walls and charges 50 CZK per hour, with a daily ticket available for 280 CZK. P4 is near the Castle Garden and Revolving Theatre and charges 100 CZK for a day ticket during its seasonal operation (June-August). From either parking lot, follow the signs to the castle entrance. Note that parking availability can be limited, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Český Krumlov Castle Tower

The Český Krumlov Castle Tower, a prominent feature of the Český Krumlov Castle complex, stands as a testament to the town's layered history. Constructed in the mid-13th century, with significant Renaissance modifications in 1581, the tower has served as a defensive structure, a symbol of power, and a stunning observation point. Originally a Gothic palace, the tower gained its Renaissance character under the direction of Baldassaro Maggi, an Italian architect. The exterior is adorned with murals and figural motifs created in 1590 by Bartoloměj Beránek-Jelínek, the Rožmberk court painter. These artistic details contribute to the tower's aesthetic appeal, which was carefully restored between 1994 and 1996. Visitors who ascend the tower via its 162 steps are rewarded with sweeping views of Český Krumlov and the surrounding landscape. The tower also houses a museum showcasing artifacts from the castle's history, providing insights into the lives of the Rožmberk, Eggenberg, and Schwarzenberg families who shaped the region. The tower's bell system includes four bells, with the largest dating back to 1406. The tower stands 86 meters above the Vltava River and has a maximum diameter of 12 meters. Its walls, at their thickest, measure 3.7 meters, a reminder of its original defensive purpose. Karel Čapek, a renowned Czech writer, famously called it "the towerest of all towers".

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