Bechyně – Historical Center

The town of Bechyně, which rises majestically on a high rock above the confluence of the Lužnice and Smutná rivers, is one of the oldest noble residences in South Bohemia. Its architectural development involved not only the bishops of Prague but also Czech kings and prominent noble families, such as the Šternberk and Rožmberk clans. The oldest historical monument in this spa town is the extensive castle complex, created by converting the original fortress built by King Přemysl Otakar II. The castle was given its present Renaissance appearance by Petr Vok, the last representative of the Rožmberk family, who married Kateřina of Ludanice here.

A whole collection of architectural treasures can be found in the main square. A row of charming burgher houses, including the building known as “U Bílého zvonu” (At the White Bell), is dominated by the Church of St. Michael. The local town museum received the prestigious Gloria Musealis award in 2014 for its permanent exhibition.

In the immediate vicinity of the main square, you can discover further architectural gems – the Franciscan Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which boasts the largest collection of diamond vaults in the Czech Republic, as well as the Church of St. Michael, the Jewish cemetery, and the former synagogue, which now houses the Museum of Tourism.

The most iconic landmark of the town is the reinforced concrete bridge over the Lužnice River, built in 1928 and popularly known as the Bechyňská duha (Bechyně Rainbow). At the time of its construction, it was the largest bridge of its kind in the former Czechoslovakia. Its uniqueness lies in its dual use for both road and rail traffic. The bridge carries the oldest electrified railway line in Austria-Hungary, designed by František Křižík, connecting Tábor with Bechyně. During the summer season, historic trains operate on this track, offering a nostalgic journey through time.