Znojmo Tourist Attractions

Perched high on a crag with the Želetavka river bowing around it, Bitov Castle is truly an amazing sight. Originally established in the 11th Century, the castle has changed dramatically over the years. The main changes were undertaken by the Jankovsky family in 1755 who completely renovated the castle into the neo Gothic style. Although the castle is quite impressive from the outside, it is the interior decorations that make it unique.Most visitors would expect to see paintings, furniture, wood paneling, armor, and the like, which are in abundance, however, it is the stuffed animals and the last owner that make Bitov castle unique. As the story goes, the last owner Baron Haas, would stuff any household pet that passed on. There are cats and dogs, squirrels, mice, and even badgers. The highlight of the castle is the parlor scene where all the animals are arranged in a social setting playing cards. Be sure to look for the squirrel wearing a fez!

The location of the Chateau at Vranov Nad Dyji is stunning. Perched on a crag overlooking the town, the chateau is picture perfect and a photographers dream. The building is first referenced in writings in around 1100. The present form of the chateau at Vranov Nad Dyji emerged from massive renovations undertaken by Johann Bernard Fischer von Erlach. These renovations started in the late 17th Century and reflect baroque architecture at its finest. Further renovations were undertaken in the early 18th Century by Vienna master builder Antonín Erhard MartinelliThe highlight of the interior is the Hall of Ancestors which is lavishly decorated with ornate frescoes.

Znojmo Castle was built on the foundations of a much older residence on a hilltop near the town of Znojmo. The original structure was founded in the 11th Century by Duke Bretislav but the current baroque castle on this location was built in the 18th Century. Inside the Znojmo Castle is the Museum of South Moravia which features an archeological collection, furniture display, paintings, crafts, ceramics, weapons, as well as other items that help to show the lifestyle of the aristocracy from that time period. Interestingly, some of the paintings are images of Znojmo throughout history.

Beneath the streets of Znojmo near Horni namesti square is a unique underground tunnel system. The Underground Tunnels of Znojmo (Znojemské podzemí) stretch on for almost 30km / 19mi and were used for town storage, which included everything from preserved food to munitions. This labyrinth of tunnels was constructed between the 13th and 17th Centuries and form a number of layers, in some areas four levels deep. They are considered to be one of the most extensive underground systems in Central Europe. It is possible to visit the underground tunnels on a tour if you are there between spring and fall.