Castles and chateaux in South Bohemia were visited by 761,964 people in the main season

České Budějovice, November 5 - The castles and chateaux in the South Bohemian Region, which are managed by the National Heritage Institute (NPÚ), were visited by 761,964 people in this year's main season. This was seven percent more than last year. The most people traditionally visited Český Krumlov. The castle and chateau in the city, which is on the UNESCO list, were visited by 223,262 tourists this year. The NPÚ reported this in a press release.

The main season, which always begins on April 1st, did not end on October 31st this year, but the heritage workers extended it by a weekend until November 2nd. "Extending the season and expanding the range of events outside the main summer months has paid off for us in the long term. Visitors appreciate not only the historical value of the buildings, their unique interiors and valuable collections, but also the accompanying programs and quality services," said Markéta Slabová, regional spokesperson for the NPÚ.

After Český Krumlov, the greatest interest was in Hluboká nad Vltavou in the Budějovice region. The castle, which in the past belonged to the noble Schwarzenberg family, was visited by 194,497 people this year. Český Krumlov and Hluboká nad Vltavou are among the three most visited castles and fortresses in the republic.

A significant year-on-year increase in attendance by 18 percent was recorded at Kratochvíle Castle in the Prachatice region. According to Slabová, this was partly due to the fact that the area also offered culture. "The evening event program focused on gastronomy during the Renaissance period. It was complemented by night tours and musical performances, which attracted a wide range of visitors. Increased interest was also brought about by the promotion of the castle on social networks and cooperation with regional partners," she said. The number of visitors to Červená Lhota Castle in the Jindřichův Hradec Králové region increased by 17 percent year-on-year.

The renovation of the retaining wall of the upper garden at Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle was completed this year. The project included architectural, construction-technical and monument restoration of the facade of the wall. It also included the first systematic archaeological survey, during which experts found objects from the period of construction of the Gothic castle in the 13th century, such as ceramics, bones, metal scissors and torches.

In Český Krumlov, the reconstruction of the Mountain Garden has begun, the completion of which is planned for the turn of June and July of next year. After completion, an almost kilometer-long sightseeing and educational trail will be created with stops and unusual views of the historic center of the city.

After the end of the main tourist season, the castles of Hluboká, Český Krumlov, Třeboň and Vimperk will remain accessible. From November 26, other monuments with Advent programs will be added to them.

Czech press agency

Photo WT.24