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Švihov Fortress
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Landmark
Švihov Water Castle is one of the most remarkably preserved late Gothic fortifications in the Czech Republic. Built at the end of the 15th century by Půta Švihovský of Rýzmberk, it was constructed on the site of an earlier stronghold. The castle was designed with a sophisticated defensive system that utilized the waters of the Úhlava River to flood the surrounding moats during sieges. Its architectural layout features massive perimeter walls, cylindrical towers, and two main courtyards. Following the Thirty Years' War, Emperor Ferdinand III ordered the dismantling of many Bohemian fortifications to prevent their use by enemies, but Švihov largely escaped this fate, losing only parts of its outer defenses. Today, the castle is widely recognized as a filming location for the classic fairy tale 'Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella' and serves as a museum of late medieval military engineering.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: Švihov Castle · Kokšín · Stará Úhlava
- Nearby: Klatovy (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 3 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 13 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 54 | 41 | 48 | 43 | 77 | 88 | 87 | 90 | 58 | 51 | 49 | 51 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Švihov Fortress is a historical fortified settlement that can be viewed from outside. Access to interior areas may be restricted or only possible with a guide.
Typical hours
The fortress grounds are accessible at any time. For interior visits, there are no fixed hours; they are possible only by appointment.
Photography
Photography of the outer areas is allowed at any time. In protected interior areas, photography is not permitted without a permit.
Time needed
For an outdoor walk, about 20-30 minutes is enough. If you manage a guided interior tour, allow 45-60 minutes.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Švihov Water Castle and the town centre of Švihov. The Rotunda in Starý Plzenec is also not far.
Getting there
The fortress is located on the outskirts of Švihov town, reachable on foot from the centre. Parking is available near the fortress grounds.
Insider tip
Ask at the local tourist office about the possibility of an interior visit. The fortress has a nice view of the surrounding landscape.
Geography
Facts
- The core of the current castle was built between 1480 and 1489.
- The hydraulic system was capable of flooding three separate moats independently.
- Renowned architect Benedikt Ried is believed to have influenced the design.
- In 1973, the castle served as the main setting for the film 'Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella'.
- The castle chapel is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
- Švihov is often cited as a prime example of late Gothic water-based defense.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Švihov Fortress (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Švihov called a water fortress?
It has an ingenious moat system that could be filled with water.
What famous movie was filmed here?
Parts of the fairytale classic 'Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella' were filmed here.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography inside is mostly forbidden or requires a fee.
Are there tours in English?
Yes, foreign language tours or printed texts for visitors are available.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan about 1.5 hours for a tour.
Švihov Fortress: where is it located?
Švihov Fortress is located in Czech Republic.
Švihov Fortress: what is there to see?
Highlights include Švihov Castle, Kokšín, Stará Úhlava.
Švihov Fortress: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Švihov Fortress: why is it worth visiting?
Švihov Water Castle is one of the most remarkably preserved late Gothic fortifications in the Czech Republic.
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