The centerpiece of the stunning medieval town of Cesky Krumlov (Český Krumlov) is its magnificent castle complex. The castle, founded by the Vítkovci family in the 13th Century, is one of the largest in Central Europe. The castle reflects a blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles shaped by centuries of expansion and renovation. The complex is well worth visiting and full of history as well as providing stunning views.
The Castle served as the seat of the influential Rosenberg family from 1302 to 1602. It was the House of Rosenberg that transformed both the castle and the town into a center of political and cultural life. However, the Houses of Eggenberg and Schwarzenberg continued this remarkable influence, right up until WWII.
The complex of Český Krumlov Castle is one of the largest in central Europe. Formed by forty buildings and palaces situated around five castle courts it also has a sprawling castle park.
A unique feature of the Castle is its moat. The moat was filled, not with water, but with bears. This was an attempt by the erstwhile rulers of the castle to associate themselves with the powerful Orsini family. The Italian noble family’s name is a pun on the Italian word for bear; orso.
History
As mentioned, the Vítkovci family founded the castle in the 13th century. When the Krumlov Vítkovci lineage died out in 1302, the Rosenbergs acquired the castle. It became the primary residence of the Lords of Rosenberg for the next three hundred years. When the Rosenberg lineage died out in 1611, the dominion was given to the House of Eggenberg. Eerily, the same thing happened to the Eggenberg lineage. When it expired, ownership passed to the House of Schwarzenberg. The castle was seized by Nazi rule in 1940, expropriated and eventually transferred to the Czechoslovak state. It was caught up in legal proceedings and, rather unjustly, never returned to the Schwarzenbergs. The House lost right to many of their titles in both the Czech Republic and Switzerland during the 1940s.
The castle and gardens were declared a national monument in 1989 and in 1992 it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Exploring Český Krumlov Castle today is an immersive journey into Bohemian history and aristocratic life. The combination of monumental architecture, richly decorated interiors and scenic natural surroundings creates a magical atmosphere. Climbing the Castle Tower, crossing the Cloak Bridge, viewing the interior of the Baroque theatre and strolling the gardens, the castle’s history feels alive in every corner.
From below, the elevated position over the town offers a constant reminder of its historical importance — once a seat of power, now a beautifully preserved window into the past. The windows from above offer views of the beautiful town, the two inextricably linked.
Castle Tower
The first thing that catches the eye is the colorful Castle Tower (Zámecká věž), which rises high above the town with its pastel hues and intricate frescoes. Climbing the narrow spiral staircase to the top is well worth the effort — from the viewing platform, you get a breathtaking panoramic view of the Vltava River winding through the medieval town below, framed by red-roofed buildings and rolling hills. The interior of the tower is equally impressive, featuring vibrant frescoes, Renaissance sgraffito and original wooden beams reflect the artistic influences of the time.
Castle Courtyards and Cloak Bridge
As you pass through the gatehouse, the castle opens into a series of five courtyards, each with its own unique character. The First Courtyard houses the Bear Moat, where live bears have lived since the 16th century — a tradition tied to the Rosenberg family’s ancestral connection to the noble Orsini family, whose coat of arms features a bear.
The path through the courtyards leads to the dramatic Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most), a multi-tiered arched bridge that spans a deep ravine. From the bridge’s upper level, you’re treated to sweeping views of the river and the town below. This is a perfect spot for capturing the castle’s grandeur against the backdrop of Český Krumlov’s medieval streets.
Baroque Theatre
One of the most remarkable treasures of the castle is the Baroque Theatre. Completed in 1682, under Prince Johann Christian I of Eggenberg, the castle’s Baroque theatre is one of the best-preserved of its kind in the world. It was further renovated with up-to-date stage equipment under Joseph I Adam of Schwarzenberg between 1765-1766. It is the oldest in the world of four 18th century theatres that have preserved scenery, props, stage machinery and costumes. Stepping into the theatre feels like traveling back in time. Due to its age, it’s only occasionally that performances still take place here and I bet it’s a sight to behold. The equipment of the theatre is protected as a national cultural monument.
The theatre occasionally hosts performances using historically accurate staging techniques and candlelight, offering visitors a rare glimpse into 17th-century theatrical traditions.
Since 1959, there is a revolving auditorium located in the Baroque gardens of the Český Krumlov Castle. The open-air theatre is used for summer performances.
State Rooms and Renaissance Interiors
The castle’s interior is a carefully preserved time capsule of aristocratic life. The State Rooms feature richly decorated ceilings, frescoes and intricate woodwork that reflect the changing tastes of the noble families who lived here. The Hall of Mirrors dazzles with gilded frames and sparkling chandeliers, while the Renaissance Hall is decorated with elaborate tapestries and paintings depicting scenes from Bohemian history. The Masquerade Hall is a certain highlight , the walls adorned with colorful 18th-century frescoes. They depict masked figures at a grand ball, adding a touch of playful elegance to the otherwise formal setting. I glance over my shoulder almost expecting an orchestra to playing.
Castle Gardens
Beyond the main castle complex, the Castle Gardens stretch over 11 hectares. Designed in the 17th century, the gardens feature manicured hedges, fountains, and an elegant cascade adorned with Baroque statues. At the heart of the gardens stands the Revolving Auditorium. This modern open-air theatre hosts summer performances held against the backdrop of the castle’s walls and the night sky. Wandering through the gardens offers a peaceful escape, with shaded paths and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Good To Know
There are various tours to choose from but don’t miss the tower, state rooms and gardens.
Would I Return?
Yes.
