Southern Bohemia Places

Jindrichuv Hradec

The ancient town of Jindrichuv Hradec, which dates to the end of the 12th century, is mirrored in the reflective waters of the Vajgar Pond right in the town's center. Originally a market colony near the border between Bohemia and Moravia, the town acquired a castle to protect it. Under the castle's guard, the town grew in size and importance, and these days it's a regional administrative center. Don't worry, it's more charming than it sounds.

The modern town admittedly looks a little scruffy in spots. Few pockets of the town show signs of renewed cultural life in and around the crumbling façades and seemingly forgotten alleyways, but a number of cultural events are held here each year, including Concertino Praga (an international radio competition for young musicians), a folk music festival called "Folkloric Rose," the South Bohemian Music Festival, and occasional classical music concerts in castle Rondel.

The surrounding countryside has earned the nickname "Czech Canada" for its unspoiled beauty, with more ponds, forests, hills, and numerous scattered granite outcrops. It's popular among Czechs for cycling, hiking, and boating possibilities.