Ceske Budejovice is a Czech city located at the confluence of the Vltava and Malshe rivers. Its main attraction is the historical part of the city, where various architectural styles are intertwined. Ceske Budejovice is the main tourist center of Southern Bohemia and one of the capital of brewing.
Przemysl Otakar Square ∥
Getting to know the city is one of its main attractions. It was named after the founder of Ceske Budejovice and is the largest in the country. Along its perimeter are ancient houses that used to belong to the local nobility. Also on this square there are a large number of historical monuments.
Among them, the baroque town hall with a bell tower stands out. Each of the houses stands out for its architecture, and they are united by arcade galleries. This landmark of Ceske Budejovice is a very lively place, taking a walk through which you can feel the special atmosphere of the city and touch its culture. On this square are all the iconic places of this tourist center, which are required to visit.
Fountain "Samson"
This is the main attraction of the Przemysl Otakar ∥ square. The fountain was built at the beginning of the 18th century, and its image can be seen on souvenir products. Previously, in its place was the Shameful Pillar, which served not only for punishment, but also was the decoration of the square.
But in the 16-17th centuries, the authorities of the municipality began to decide on the supply of drinking water to residents. So it was decided to build a fountain. Samson, tearing the mouth of a lion, turned out to be impressive, the height of the composition is 17 m. The four stone Atlantes hold the stone bowl into which the water enters. Below are the statues of stone gargoyles and beautiful vases. There are also benches for rest.
Town Hall
The main attraction of Ceske Budejovice is the town hall. It is decorated with three towers, the middle of which was converted into a belfry - there are 18 bells. This town hall was built in the 18th century, on the site of the previous two. The dilapidated building was rebuilt anew, making them all the more impressive.
Built in the 18th century, the building was able to accommodate all officials. On its facade several emblems are depicted, the uppermost is the emblem of the South Bohemian Region. The city hall is decorated with four statues symbolizing virtues. Initially, they were created by J. Dietrich - now there are their quality copies. Now the town hall continues to be the administrative building in which the information bureau operates. Therefore, it is possible to admire the beautiful interiors.
Prodigal Stone
An ancient legend that attracts the attention of tourists is associated with this object. This is a stone with five faces, which depicts a cross, and it has been on the square since the 16th century. Executions were carried out in that place before. Locals believe that if you step over it after 9 pm, then a person will not be able to find the way home all night. One of the most interesting sights of Ceske Budejovice is located between the fountain and the Zvon Hotel.
Cathedrals
No less significant sights of Ceske Budejovice are cathedrals and monasteries. The most famous is the Dominican monastery, combined in one complex with the Church of the Virgin Mary of the Promised. It is located in Piarist Square. This monastery was built at the same time as the city. In the 16th century, it was rebuilt by Peter Parlezh. On one of the side walls of the temple is a stone amphibian, which, according to legend, guarded treasures.
St. Nicholas Cathedral is located in the northern part of the city, and it is decorated in the Baroque style. It was built around 1265 and was the city parish church. Particular attention should be paid to the department and the altar image of authorship of Leopold Hubert. In the southern part of the cathedral do not miss the picture "Assumption of the Virgin Mary".
Near this cathedral in 1549-1577. The Black Tower was built. It functioned as a guard and bell tower, symbolizing the wealth of the city. The height of the Black Tower is 72 m, and at the very top is an observation deck. It is decorated with watches, and in one of the windows you can see a big fly.
Next to the Church of Mary the Promised is another tower - the Iron Maiden, built in the 14th century. But three centuries later, lightning fell on the iron decorations installed on the roof. Then it was restored and now there is a restaurant where you can relax after a walk.
Museums
The sights of České Budějovice include museums that feature interesting exhibits. Fans of technology will like the Motorcyclist Museum - there they will be able to look at motorcycles of various Czech brands. Other exhibits relevant to the subject of the museum are shown.
If you like everything new and original, visit the Gallery of Modern Art. There you can find out more about the history of South Bohemia and see how the city looked before the fire. In the city there is a Posthouse, which is the oldest railway station in Europe.
Czech breweries
An obligatory item on the must-have list of every tourist is to try the famous Czech beer. Local products are popular all over the world. Brewery "Budeevitsky Budvar" is visited by a huge number of tourists. Initially, the Germans produced beer in the Czech Republic, but then the locals wanted to produce their own products.
They make it using special technology. Malt is bought for him in Moravia, and only Czech hops are used. Therefore, Budeevitsky Budvar does not sell licenses for its production in other countries. And all European countries (with the exception of Denmark) prefer the Czech rather than the American Budweiser.
South Bohemian Theater
Ceske Budejovice is known not only as a tourist, but also as a cultural center. It is located in the historical part of the city. The building was built in 1763, but it was used as a warehouse and a brewery.
A year later, part of the warehouse was rebuilt as a theater, accommodating 400 people. They staged performances only in German. A new theater building was built in 1819, and the first performance in Czech was given in 1838. His repertoire is extensive and offers performances for both adults and children.
Zoo Hoch
In addition to historical sights and museums, you can visit the Hoch Zoo, which is also proud of the locals. It was founded by Ferdinand Hoch. There you can see rare species of birds, admire representatives of the underwater kingdom and beautiful plant species. In addition, there is a pet shop where you can buy products and toys that are useful for your pets.
The zoo has a large number of reptiles. And visitors will be able to touch the world of snakes and spiders. At the Hoch Zoo you can find everything for aquariums and terrariums.
The city of Ceske Budejovice has a special Czech atmosphere consisting of fairy tales and ancient legends. Almost every historical building is associated with an interesting legend, which increases the interest of tourists in the historical and cultural heritage of the city. In Ceske Budejovice, everyone will be able to spend leisure time in accordance with their interests.
And even a simple walk through the old streets allows you to admire the original architectural appearance of the city. If tourists have the opportunity, then you can take a walk around the surroundings to look at the fabulous castles and admire the natural beauties that the South Bohemian Region is also famous for.