Seven Wonders of the Czech Republic

Historical Centre of Český Krumlov

A maze of crooked medieval streets, picturesque gables of town homes, romantic hideaways, an impressive castle above the Vltava River, cafés and medieval pubs, exhibitions, concerts, festivals – all of that is Český Krumlov. The city with a unique magical atmosphere has been listed as one of the UNESCO sites since 1992. And it is justly considered one of the Czech wonders. You would hardly find a more romantic and picturesque city in South Bohemia. You will be captivated by the well-preserved historical city centre as well as how the nobility used to live when you walk through the chambers of the Český Krumlov castle.

Karlštejn Castle

The secure representative seat of Emperor Charles IV, where women were allegedly not allowed so that the king would not be disturbed in his stately and theological thoughts, was founded as a castle to guard the crown jewels, holy relics and state documents. Karlštejn Castle is in Central Bohemia, close to Prague, and it has held a unique position among Czech castles since 1348 when it was founded. It was built by the Roman Emperor and Bohemian King Charles IV to safeguard treasures, placed in the Chapel of the Holy Cross, one of the most valuable, preserved European Gothic interiors. Access to the chapel is limited and if you want to see it, you have to make a reservation in advance. But it is definitely worth it!

Charles Bridge in Prague

Charles IV is related to another sight that is considered to be one of the seven wonders of the Czech Republic: the bridge in Prague that still connects the Old Town and the Lesser Town with Prague Castle was built by the Emperor in 1357. It stands in place of an older bridge that has not been preserved. It is the oldest bridge across the Vltava River in Prague. Today, you can admire thirty Baroque statues on the bridge, most of them created by sculptor Matthias Bernard Braun.

Prague Castle

This Czech wonder definitely deserves to be on the list! Did you know that Prague Castle is the largest castle compound in the world? Come see it with your own eyes. Start at the impressive Matthias Gate, continue with a tour of the Gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and do not miss the South Gardens, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view over the city. Prague Castle is the most visited place in the Czech Republic. It has a history of more than a thousand years and a mix of various architectural styles that underlines the uniqueness of the entire compound.

Ještěd TV Tower and Hotel

A modern architecture monument that is worth a visit! Ještěd is a mountain that looms over the capital of the North Bohemian region, Liberec. In the middle of the 20th century, the need to build a television tower arose and Ještěd was selected for the construction. Architect Karel Hubáček chose an original path and designed a building comprising the TV tower, restaurant and hotel in one. The construction was completed in 1973 and the building received the Perret Award from the International Society of Architects. Today, you can book a room in the hotel, which is being gradually reconstructed into its original form. What is better than waking up on the top of a mountain in the morning and enjoying an unlimited view of the landscape?

Dlouhé Stráně Power Plant

Do you like technical monuments that are unique in several ways? Then you have to see Dlouhé Stráně! It is the third largest pump-storage hydroelectric power plant in the world. It is also a power plant with the largest downgrade in the Czech Republic and the largest output, and it also includes the largest reverse water turbine in Europe. You will find it in the mountains of Jeseníky in the north of Moravia on a mountain called Mravenečník. The power plant is used as a large storage of electric power. When there is low electricity consumption – usually at night, the large pumps pump water into the tank placed on the top of the mountain. And at the height of peak consumption during the day, water flows down to the lower tank at the foot of the mountain and powers the water turbines. The local employees are happy to show you around and explain everything after you book your tour in advance.

Hluboká nad Vltavou Chateau

The Hluboká Chateau in South Bohemia is an ideal destination for lovers of history and incorrigible romantics. The chateau was built by the Schwarzenberg family and is often considered the most beautiful chateau in the Czech Republic, and its choice as one of the seven wonders of the Czech Republic is thereby obvious. The large English park that surrounds the chateau was founded in the mid-19th century when the romantic modifications of the chateau were made. During the tour, you can see the private rooms as well as the luxurious representative halls with carved wall facing, panelled ceilings, elegant stylish furniture, crystal chandeliers and rich collections of paintings, silver, porcelain and tapestries. You will not be disappointed if you visit this place.