How long does it take to walk the sacred spaces route?

The full walk typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to go inside St. Vitus Church and the Monastery cloisters, which are about 1 kilometer apart.

Is the Church of St. Vitus free to visit?

Yes, entry to the main nave of St. Vitus Church is generally free. However, visitors should be respectful of ongoing services and may need to pay a small fee for specific treasury exhibits.

What is the best time to visit the Monastery complex?

Morning is best to avoid the afternoon crowds. The cloisters often open at 10:00 AM, providing a quiet atmosphere for exploring the medieval architecture.

Can I see the Castle from this walking route?

Yes, the Seminary Garden (Seminární zahrada) offers one of the most iconic panoramic views of the Cesky Krumlov Castle and its tower.

Is this neighborhood stroll suitable for seniors?

The route is relatively short and flat, but the cobblestones can be challenging. There are plenty of benches in the Seminary Garden and the Municipal Park for resting.

Where can I find the best photo spots on this walk?

The Seminary Garden is the top spot for castle views, while the green tower of St. Jost Church provides a great backdrop when standing on the Lazebnický Bridge.

Are there guided tour Cesky Krumlov options for these churches?

While some local groups offer schedules, a self-guided audio walk allows you the flexibility to explore these sacred spaces at your own pace without following a group.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Cesky Krumlov is often defined by its towering castle, but the soul of this Bohemian jewel lies within its silent cloisters and soaring naves. This self-guided walk invites you to step away from the bustling crowds of the main square and into the spiritual heritage of the Latrán district and the inner town. As you follow this walking route, you will discover how religious orders and local faith shaped the city's unique architectural landscape over seven centuries. The journey begins at the extensive Monastery complex, a place where the Minorite and Clarissine orders once lived side-by-side in a rare double-monastery arrangement. Here, the thick stone walls still echo with medieval chants, offering a glimpse into a life of devotion. As you move through the winding streets of Latrán, you will encounter the former Church of St. Jost, whose iconic green tower serves as a landmark for travelers navigating the Vltava riverbanks. Crossing into the historic center, the route leads to the Church of St. Vitus, a masterpiece of Bohemian Gothic architecture that rivals the castle in its majesty. Inside, the intricate net vaulting and the final resting places of the Rosenberg and Schwarzenberg dynasties tell the story of the powerful families who championed the Catholic faith in this region. This walking tour Cesky Krumlov experience is designed for those who appreciate the intersection of history and art. Along the way, you will visit the Seminary Garden, providing one of the most photographed vistas of the city, before concluding your neighborhood stroll in the tranquil surroundings of the municipal park at St. Martin’s Chapel. This self-guided adventure allows you to linger in the quiet corners of these sacred spaces, far from the typical tourist path, making it a perfect choice for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. By exploring independently, you can take the time to notice the small details—a weathered fresco, a Baroque carving, or the way the light hits the stained glass—that make the sacred spaces of Cesky Krumlov truly unforgettable.

Highlights

The expansive Minorite and Clarissine Monastery complex

The unique 'Tree of Life' altar at the Church of Corpus Christi

The iconic green tower of the former St. Jost Church

Panoramic views of the castle from the Seminary Garden

The towering Gothic net vaulting inside the Church of St. Vitus

The tranquil cemetery chapel of St. Martin in the city park

Tour Stops (6)

Kláštery Český Krumlov

Welcome to the Kláštery complex, a rare example of a double monastery where the Minorite and Clarissine orders coexisted for centuries. Founded in 1350 by Catherine of Rosenberg, this massive site was the spiritual counterweight to the secular power of the castle. As you explore the grounds, notice the blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture. The cloisters here are particularly famous for their preserved medieval atmosphere. For over 400 years, this was a center of learning and healing in Latrán. Today, the complex serves as a cultural hub, but it still retains the quiet, contemplative air of its monastic past, offering a peaceful start to your walking route.

Kostel Božího Těla a Panny Marie

Part of the monastery complex, the Church of Corpus Christi and the Virgin Mary is a Baroque treasure hidden within Gothic walls. The interior is a dramatic display of 17th-century craftsmanship, dominated by the unique 'Tree of Life' altar. This intricate woodcarving depicts the genealogy of Christ in a way rarely seen in Central Europe. Throughout its history, the church was a site of major pilgrimages, especially during the festival of the 'Showing of the Relics.' Take a moment to look up at the ornate ceiling frescoes and feel the shift from the humble life of the monks to the grand visual storytelling of the Counter-Reformation.

St. Jost Church

Standing near the Latrán bridge, St. Jost Church is easily recognized by its distinctive green five-storied tower topped with a lantern. Originally founded in the 14th century as part of a hospital for the poor, the building has undergone many transformations. In the late 16th century, Peter Vok of Rosenberg had it rebuilt in a Renaissance style for the local community. Interestingly, the church was closed during the reforms of Emperor Joseph II in 1787 and later served as a brewery and a warehouse. Today, while it no longer functions as a church, its tower remains one of the most iconic silhouettes in the Cesky Krumlov skyline.

Seminární zahrada

This terrace, known as the Seminary Garden, offers one of the most breathtaking views in the city. It was originally established by the Jesuits in the 17th century as a space for contemplation and relaxation for students of the nearby college. From this vantage point, you can perfectly see the architectural dialogue between the Castle Tower and the Church of St. Vitus. It is the ideal place to appreciate the layout of the city, nestled in the tight loops of the Vltava River. The garden serves as a bridge between the spiritual stops on our walk and the secular grandeur of the Rosenberg capital.

Church of St. Vitus

Dominating the inner city, the Church of St. Vitus is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Built between 1407 and 1439, its soaring triple-nave structure was designed to reflect the prestige of the Rosenberg family. Inside, look for the magnificent net vaulting, a complex geometric stone ceiling that seems to float above the worshippers. This church houses the tombs of the most powerful lords of the region, including the Schwarzenberg chapel. The acoustics here are legendary, and the stained glass windows cast colorful patterns across the ancient flagstones. It remains the active spiritual heart of the local community and a testament to Bohemian religious art.

Kaple svatého Martina

Conclude your walk at St. Martin's Chapel, located in the peaceful Municipal Park. This small, octagonal building was originally a cemetery chapel built in the late 16th century and later rebuilt in a Baroque style. It stands as a reminder of the many smaller sacred spaces that once dotted the city outskirts. The surrounding park was once a Jesuit garden, and the chapel provided a place for final prayers before burial. Today, it is a quiet spot away from the main tourist trail, surrounded by greenery and the gentle sound of the river nearby—a perfect place to reflect on the spiritual journey you have just completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the Latrán and inner city religious sites is ideal. It focuses on the 14th-century Monastery complex and the Gothic St. Vitus Church, covering over 700 years of history.