Hundreds of years of history awakening at every step will fascinate not only lovers of monuments. The five historic cities of the Czech-Moravian border are proud of their rich history, architectural gems and stories of famous personalities.
At the head of the admirable buildings is the Renaissance castle in Litomyšl, which since 1999 has been among the unique ones registered on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. Another Renaissance pearl, the castle in Moravská Třebová, lets you glimpse the secrets of alchemy and the Dark Ages in its cellars. Nové Hrady completes the trefoil of castle gems. The unique Rococo-style building is surrounded by extensive gardens and an English park.
Medieval noble residences are represented by Svojanov, one of the oldest Czech royal castles. Today, its architecture combines Gothic and Empire, and the mysterious castle atmosphere breathes a multitude of legends and rumours.
When wandering through history, definitely don't miss another "best" of the Czech-Moravian borderlands. One of the best-preserved city walls in Central Europe can be seen in Polička, you can walk along the largest square square in Vysoké Mýt, while the historic center with a variety of architectural styles is waiting for you in Svitavy. Ancient and inspiring corners await you at almost every turn in the region on the border of Bohemia and Moravia. Don't hesitate to explore them in person!
Not only the five picturesque towns, but also other places in the Czech-Moravian border are associated with the names of a number of world-famous personalities. Whether giants of various fields were born here or found their place of work for part of their lives, their traces have left an indelible mark on the history of the region.
Museums and monuments for you
Moravská Třebová Chateau
Moravská Třebová Chateau
Expositions of the Moravská Třebová Chateau, often called the pearl of Renaissance architecture, will guide you through the history of the town. You may even be a little scared when you visit the torture chamber and the laboratory in the cellars, where you will get a glimpse into the secrets of alchemists.
Svojanov Castle
Svojanov Castle
Shrouded in medieval legends, the royal castle of Svojanov will tell you many secrets of ancient times. Stroll through the Gothic gardens, visit the Empire Palace and the Armourers' House. The sharp castle tower offers you a breathtaking view of the Křetínka valley.
Birth home of Bohuslav Martinů
Birth home of Bohuslav Martinů
A small room high in the tower of the Church of St. Jakuba witnessed the birth of a musical genius. Climb to the top of the tower, see the city from a bird's eye view and get to know the place where Martinů spent his childhood.
Litomyšl Castle - UNESCO
Litomyšl Castle - UNESCO
A small piece of Italy seems to have been imprinted into the architecture of Litomyšl's Renaissance jewel. The castle, which will enchant you with thousands of sgraffito decorations on the facade and a unique Classicist theatre, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
Museum of an Egyptian Princess
Museum of an Egyptian Princess
You will have the exoticism and beauty of the Orient at your fingertips in the Moravská Třebová Municipal Museum. The exposition will take you among Japanese samurai, Tibetan monks and to the times of Egyptian pharaohs.
Portmoneum - Museum of Josef Váchal in Litomyšl
Portmoneum - Museum of Josef Váchal in Litomyšl
A fantasy world awakens inside an inconspicuous house near the centre of Litomyšl. Various motifs from Christianity and oriental teachings, as well as goblins, devils and ghosts have been brought to life by the original artist Josef Váchal.
Baroque grounds in Vraclav
Baroque grounds in Vraclav
Take a walk through the pilgrimage area near the defunct seat of the Vršov family. They are proud of the church of St. Mikuláš with an exhibition of rare baroque sculptures, a hermitage and a former spa building used for thematic exhibitions.
City Museum and Gallery in Svitavy
City Museum and Gallery in Svitavy
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?
