The History of Svornosti Square

Svornosti Square has been the center of local life for centuries. It was once the main marketplace for the town. Today, it is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is famous for its square shape and historic charm. You can see Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles all in one place. Most buildings have preserved their original look for hundreds of years. This makes the square feel like an open-air museum.

The square is managed by the official tourism board to keep it beautiful. It is a car-free zone in many parts. This makes it very easy to walk around and take photos. You will notice the ground is covered in old cobblestones. Wear comfortable shoes when you visit. The square is the starting point for most walking tours. It is also where many local festivals take place throughout the year.

In the middle of the square, you will see a large stone column. This is a common sight in many Czech towns. It tells a story of survival and faith. Around the edges, the houses show off the wealth of former residents. Some houses have very detailed paintings on the walls. These are called sgraffito and are typical for the Renaissance era. Take your time to look up at the roofs and windows.

12 Best Svornosti Square Main Sights

Here are the top things to see when you visit the square. These items are all within a short walk of each other. Most are free to view from the outside.

1. Name: Old Town Hall (Radnice) Type: Sight Why go: It is a beautiful white building with Gothic and Renaissance elements. It has served as the town hall since the 16th century. Best for: History buffs. Where: North side of the square. Time: 15 mins. Cost: Free to view outside. Tip: Look for the three coats of arms on the facade.
2. Name: Marian Plague Column Type: Sight Why go: This Baroque column was built in 1716 to thank the Virgin Mary for ending a plague. It features statues of eight saints. Best for: Religious history. Where: Center of the square. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Tip: The statues include St. Vitus and St. Sebastian.
3. Name: Stone Fountain Type: Sight Why go: It sits right next to the Plague Column and was built in 1843. It replaced an older wooden fountain that provided water to the town. Best for: Photo opportunities. Where: Center of the square. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Tip: It is a popular meeting spot for tour groups.
4. Name: Museum of Torture Type: Experience Why go: Located in the dark cellars of the Town Hall, it shows medieval punishment tools. It is quite spooky and atmospheric. Best for: Teenagers and brave adults. Where: Under the Old Town Hall. Time: 45 mins. Cost: Usually around 100-150 CZK. Tip: It can be a bit scary for very small children.
5. Name: Tourist Information Centre Type: Activity Why go: It is located inside the Town Hall building. You can get maps, book tours, or buy local souvenirs here. Best for: Practical help. Where: Inside the Old Town Hall. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free entry. Tip: Ask for the official city map for the best walking routes.
6. Name: Hotel The Old Inn Type: Sight Why go: This historic hotel has a very grand facade. It shows how the wealthy lived in the heart of the town. Best for: Architecture. Where: Corner of the square. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free to view outside. Tip: The interior is also very classic if you want to grab a coffee.
7. Name: House No. 12 (The Golden Angel) Type: Sight Why go: This house is famous for its beautiful Renaissance sgraffito decorations. It is one of the most photographed houses in the square. Best for: Art lovers. Where: South side of the square. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free to view. Tip: Look for the intricate patterns etched into the plaster.
8. Name: Church of St. Vitus Type: Sight Why go: While just off the square, its tower dominates the view. It is a masterpiece of South Bohemian Gothic architecture. Best for: Spiritual visits. Where: Kostelní street, 1 min walk from the square. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Free entry (donations welcome). Tip: Read more about the Church of St. Vitus architecture before you go.
9. Name: Regional Museum in Český Krumlov Type: Museum Why go: It is located in a former Jesuit seminary. It features a huge ceramic model of the city as it looked in the 1800s. Best for: Learning the town's history. Where: Horní street, 2 mins from the square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Around 100 CZK. Tip: Check out the Regional Museum and Synagogue for a deep dive into local culture.
10. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: Museum Why go: This museum is dedicated to the famous Austrian painter who lived here. It is housed in a massive 16th-century brewery. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street, 3 mins from the square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Around 200 CZK. Tip: The Egon Schiele Art Centrum often has rotating modern exhibits.
11. Name: Latrán Street Entrance Type: Experience Why go: This is the main historic street leading from the square to the castle. It is lined with shops and cafes. Best for: Shopping and strolling. Where: North-east exit of the square. Time: 20 mins. Cost: Free. Tip: Walk down Latrán Street to see the old brewery and gates.
12. Name: Seminary Garden Viewpoint Type: Viewpoint Why go: This garden offers the best view of the Castle and the square's surroundings. It is the perfect spot for a panoramic photo. Best for: Photography. Where: Next to the Regional Museum. Time: 15 mins. Cost: Free. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best lighting on the castle walls.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Square

To make the most of the Svornosti Square main sights, arrive early in the morning. By 10:00 AM, many day-trip buses arrive from Prague. The square can get very crowded during the middle of the day. If you stay overnight, the square is magical after dark. The buildings are lit up, and the crowds disappear. It feels like stepping back in time to the 1500s.

Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal event dates. In June, the Five-Petalled Rose Festival takes place here. The square fills with people in medieval costumes. There are also lovely Christmas markets in December. You can try local snacks like Trdelník or hot mulled wine. It is a very festive time to visit.

Most businesses in the square accept credit cards. However, it is good to have some Czech Koruna (CZK) for small shops. There are several ATMs located right on the square. Be careful of currency exchange offices with high fees. Always check the rate before you trade your money. Most people in the shops speak good English.

Nearby Attractions to Explore Next

After seeing the square, you should head toward the river. You will find many more landmarks within a five-minute walk. You can explore the best viewpoints for landmarks along the Vltava. The river loops around the Old Town, creating beautiful scenery. Many people enjoy rafting or canoeing during the summer months.

The most famous sight is the castle complex. It is one of the largest in Central Europe. You can walk through the courtyards for free. To see the interiors, you must book a guided tour. There are many castle tour options available for visitors. Don't miss the bear moat at the entrance.

If you have more time, visit the Minorite Monastery. It is a peaceful place away from the main tourist paths. The gardens there are very quiet and pretty. You can also walk across the Cloak Bridge for amazing views. The bridge connects different parts of the castle and is a feat of engineering. Everything in this town is close together and easy to reach.