The irregular layout of Svitavy’s square proves that the burgess homes were built entirely spontaneously along a medieval road. Considering several fires, which hit the city during its several centuries of history, and subsequent reconstructions, it is possible to refer to the urban heritage zone as a textbook for architecture. Just about every known style is represented here next to one another – Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Classicism, and even historicising styles, Neo-Renaissance or Art Nouveau.
You can take a stroll along Svitavy’s square, which belongs among the longest double-sided arcaded squares in the Czech Republic. You can begin the walk at the upper end of the square at the Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, where you get a fantastic view of the entire city and surroundings from its tower. One of the oldest burgess houses built in 1554 is the U Mouřenína house, which is found in the central part of the square, directly next to the red old town hall building. At the lower end of the square, your attention will most certainly be grabbed by the dramatic building the Ottendorfer house. It was originally a public library, today it serves as a concert hall and it houses the Museum of Esperanto, the only one in the Czech Republic. Right next to the Ottendorfer house is the Svitavy Museum, where you can visit the unique exhibition of washing machines and washing techniques, or become acquainted with the Svitavy native Oscar Schindler and the history of the Jewish settlement of the region at the permanent exhibition Searching for the Star of David.
A wide range of interesting facts about the life of the town, its personalities and the whole region is presented by the Svitava Museum. Do you know what Oskar Schindler is famous for, when the first automatic washing machine was made or how big the local carved nativity scene is?
The history of the origin and current use of the international language Esperanto is be presented by the only museum of Esperanto in the Czech Republic. The cultural experience is enhanced by the charming Ottendorfer House, where the museum is located.
Jan Palach Park with a Memorial to Oskar Schindler
Jan Palach Park with a Memorial to Oskar Schindler
The park in the vicinity of the splendid Langer's Villa is full of quiet corners suitable for relaxation during a sightseeing walk. There is also a Memorial to Oskar Schindler, which is situated directly opposite his birth house.
The attractive environment of the forest with springing water is accessible by wooden walkways and footbridges. The path through the forest will introduce you to the local fauna and flora. A number of interactive elements provide fun and education for your children.
The highest point in the city with an altitude of 453 meters is part of the leisure area for fans of active relaxation. Thanks to the signpost at the top, you can find out how far you are from the world's capitals.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can enjoy a moment of peace and active relaxation in the area by the Rosnička pond with an outdoor gym, fitness trails, cycle paths and routes for wheelchair users. There is also a Mother Bee Memorial with a resting gazebo.
