Švihov Chateau

Švihov Castle, located in Western Bohemia, is one of the most significant late Gothic water castles in the Czech Republic. It was constructed between 1480 and 1489 by Půta Švihovský of Rýzmberk, a prominent nobleman at the court of King Vladislav II. The castle's most distinctive feature is its sophisticated defensive system, which relied on a network of moats that could be strategically flooded during a siege. The structure consists of two main residential wings enclosing a rectangular courtyard, surrounded by massive walls and bastions. During the Thirty Years' War, Švihov successfully repelled Swedish sieges, demonstrating its formidable military design. Following the conflict, Emperor Ferdinand III ordered the fortress to be demolished to prevent it from becoming a rebel stronghold. Fortunately, only parts of the outer fortifications were destroyed, and the castle was repurposed as a granary. This practical use inadvertently protected the building from extensive Baroque renovations, preserving its authentic late Gothic character for modern visitors to admire.

Nearby cities

Prague

The Golden City on the Vltava River, famous for its historic Charles Bridge and the massive Prague Castle complex.

Prague

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Most

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History & landmarks

Cheb

A historic town near the Bavarian border, famous for its imperial castle and the unique Špalíček half-timbered houses.

Cesky Krumlov

A medieval jewel in South Bohemia, embraced by a loop of the Vltava River and crowned by a magnificent castle.