Article Bechyne
Picturesque South Bohemian town
Approximately 40 km north of České Budějovice is a picturesque South Bohemian town known primarily for its location on a rocky promontory above the confluence of the Lužnice and Smutná rivers, its spa tradition and its unique technical bridge. The town experienced its greatest prosperity under Petr Vok of Rožmberk in the 16th century. In 1884, the oldest professional ceramics school in Bohemia was founded here, which has shaped the town to this day. The town is one of the oldest spa towns in our country (peat therapy), focusing primarily on the musculoskeletal system
TG Masaryk Square
The square forms the very heart of the picturesque spa town of Bechyně and represents a comprehensive ensemble of historical architecture of South Bohemia. This space, surrounded by burgher houses, combines a rich history from the Middle Ages to the present. From the square, it is only a few steps to the local Renaissance chateau or to the romantic valley of the Lužnice River.
Bechyně Castle
The original Přemyslid castle from the second half of the 13th century was rebuilt into a Renaissance chateau in the 16th century under Petr Vok of Rožmberk. The chateau boasts beautiful painted decorations in the courtyard and interiors. The chateau has some of the best-preserved interiors in South Bohemia. The Renaissance rooms and the unique Vok's Wedding Hall are worth seeing.
Franciscan monastery
On the eastern edge of the old town there is a Franciscan monastery from 1491. Part of the complex of late Gothic buildings, located on a rock on the right bank of the Lužnice River, is a late Gothic church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Monastery gardens
The adjacent gardens offer the best view of the Lužnice Canyon and the „Duha“ bridge. The garden is freely accessible and offers a large area for resting and lying on the grass or having a picnic.
St. Matthew's Church
The two-nave church on the square was built at the beginning of the 16th century. In 1613, a massive tower with an arcaded gallery was built, which can be climbed during the season and enjoy the views from a height of 36 meters. It is also possible to look into the reconstructed tower keeper's room.
Historic center
From TGM Square, you can explore the streets and admire the preserved houses.
Museum of Tourism
On Široká Street, in the original Bechyně synagogue, there is a museum of tourism. Here you will learn about important places of Czech tourism, get an overview of the KČT cottages and the establishment of the Czech Tourists Club. Furthermore, there is an exhibition of tourist equipment from various periods.
The Cock Tower
Above the weir near the confluence with the Smutná River, a remnant of a former fortification rises. The tower served as an observation post and controlled the access road from the bridge.
Bechyně Bridge ("Rainbow")
The bridge is a landmark of the city and a technical unique feature. The reinforced concrete arch spans 60 meters above the Lužnice River and offers wonderful views of the surroundings. The bridge was completed in 1928 and was unique in its time: both a road and a railway line run across the bridge. The height above the Lužnice River is an impressive 50 meters.
Bechyně stairs
There are 226 steps leading from the city center to the river, offering a nice view of the river. An interesting fact is that an annual running race is held here.
City fortifications
The city fortifications in Bechyně are a partially preserved system of medieval city fortifications, consisting of ramparts and bastions. It is protected as a cultural monument and is part of the Bechyně city conservation zone. The original city fortifications from the first half of the 14th century were destroyed during the Hussite Wars. The partially preserved city fortifications date from the second half of the 15th century
