Litomyšl, Czechia (Czech Republic)
With a history spanning over 1000 years, Litomyšl is a captivating town in the Pardubice Region of the Czech Republic, renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Its most celebrated landmark is the stunning Renaissance castle, which holds the prestigious distinction of being one of only twelve Czech sites on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. Beyond its architectural treasures, the town is also a place of great musical importance, being the birthplace of the celebrated classical composer Bedrich Smetana. This unique combination of history, art, and music makes Litomyšl a truly fascinating destination.
Parking in Litomyšl
Parking in the heart of a historic town like Litomyšl can often be a challenge, but the town's thoughtful layout makes it surprisingly convenient for visitors. The decision to use the main market square as a large parking area is a clever one, as it places you right in the middle of all the action. This central location means you can easily access the main sights and attractions on foot, saving time and effort. It's an excellent way to start your exploration without the hassle of a long walk from an outer parking lot.
It's worth driving to the Smetanovo náměstí market square (1; GPS: 49.872411, 16.310184), which is also a vast parking lot. So we did and thus we were close to the most interesting sights of the town.
Smetanovo náměstí
Smetanovo náměstí is more than just a market square; it is the vibrant heart of Litomyšl and a stunning open-air museum of architectural styles. Stretching for nearly 500 meters, this long, graceful square is divided into upper and lower sections, each contributing to its unique character. It is a harmonious blend of architectural periods, from the Renaissance to the Classicism, all unified by the impressive arcades that line the ground floors of the townhouses. These arcades, with their Gothic origins, provide a sheltered walkway and a charming atmosphere for strolling, shopping, and dining.
The Smetanovo náměstí market square is itself a beautiful tourist attraction. Long nearly 500 meters, it is divided into two parts: upper and lower. The combination of architectural styles - from the Renaissance to Classicism is very characteristic feature of the square. However, the arcades in tenements have even earlier, Gothic origins. Due to the length of the market, you can count more then 100 townhouses - the most beautiful of them is the famous Dum U Rytířů (House of the Knights) - the building with the number 110 (A; GPS: 49.870318, 16.311277). The house was probably completed in the Renaissance style by and for a stonemason named Blažek, and it was after the great fire that destroyed the entire town in the year 1540. However, other buildings are also certainly worth a look. In the center of the square you can find the Gothic Town Hall tower.
Towards the Renaissance castle
The short walk from Smetanovo náměstí to the Litomyšl Castle is a delightful journey through the town's historical heart. The route is lined with significant cultural landmarks, offering more than just a path to your destination; it's a part of the sightseeing experience itself. As you stroll, you'll feel the town's calm and historic ambiance, passing beautiful buildings that hint at Litomyšl's prosperous past. This deliberate path allows visitors to appreciate the town's layout and its architectural treasures before arriving at its main attraction.
We leave the market square and head down the Jiráskova street in the direction of the Renaissance castle. On the way we pass the building of the regional museum (B; GPS: 49.872404, 16.311804) and Piarist monastery with the church of the Discovery of the Holy Cross (C; GPS: 49.872105, 16.312431).
The Litomyšl Castle
The Litomyšl Castle is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that feels like a piece of Italy transplanted to the heart of Central Europe. Its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list is a testament to its exceptional design and historical value. The castle is not just a facade; it also offers beautiful interiors and extensive grounds, including a stunning Baroque theater and manicured gardens. The intricate sgraffito decoration on the exterior walls is a work of art in itself, providing a visual narrative of scenes from castle life and mythological creatures that is truly captivating. This architectural gem is a must-see for anyone interested in European art and history.
This beautiful construction (D; GPS: 49.873168, 16.312672) was established in the second half of the sixteenth century and is a rare example of arcade castle in the Italian style built outside Italy. In 1999, the castle has been included in the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. Despite the modifications in later centuries it keeps virtually intact the Renaissance style, including beautiful facades. The walls of the castle are decorated with sgraffito technique with scenes depicting life in the castle, and images of people and animals.
Gastronomy in Litomyšl
Litomyšl's culinary scene offers a delightful taste of traditional Czech cuisine, with a focus on hearty and flavorful dishes. The town's restaurants and cafes provide a perfect opportunity to sample regional specialties, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, you'll find charming establishments that serve classic Czech fare and local beverages, providing a comforting and authentic dining experience in a historic setting.
What to Try?
- Svíčková na smetaně: This is a quintessential Czech dish—marinated beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, served with bread dumplings and cranberry sauce.
- Goulash: A hearty meat stew, often served with dumplings, is a staple of Czech pubs and restaurants.
- Trdelník: While popular across the Czech Republic, this sweet pastry cooked over an open flame is a perfect snack to enjoy while strolling the market square.
- Local Beer: Of course, no visit to the Czech Republic is complete without trying the local beer. Look for regional brews from the Pardubice area.
Where to Eat?
Many of the best restaurants are located directly on or just off Smetanovo náměstí, offering both traditional Czech dishes and international cuisine. You can enjoy a meal in a historic building with beautiful arcades, or find a cozy cafe for a coffee and a pastry. Be sure to check out the local pubs, or "hospody," for an authentic and lively atmosphere. The town's focus on tourism ensures there are plenty of options for every taste and budget, all within walking distance of the main sights.
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