The tower's construction was significantly delayed and completed only shortly before the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia.
It is built on a site formerly occupied by a wooden observation tower that burned down in the 19th century.
The interior contains a pantheon featuring busts of major Czech national figures.
The sandstone used for the construction is locally sourced from the quarries surrounding Hořice.
It originally intended to store the remains of legionaries, though this plan was never fully realized as intended.
The monument survived the political shifts of the 20th century despite its association with the First Republic's democratic ideals.
Masaryk Tower of Independence is a monument constructed between 1925 and 1938 to honor the Czechoslovak Legionaries. Designed by architect František Blažek, the structure serves as both a memorial and an observation tower. It is built from Hořice sandstone, a material renowned for its high quality and use in regional sculpture. The tower stands on the Gothard hill, overlooking the town of Hořice and the broader Podkrkonoší landscape. It houses a pantheon dedicated to personalities of Czech history and literature. The tower is a representative example of First Republic commemorative architecture. It features a distinct exterior adorned with sculptural reliefs and architectural detailing.
The base of the tower looking up to capture the intricate sandstone masonry and monumental scale.
Climb to the top gallery for an unobstructed view of the Krkonoše mountains.
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Gothard sculpture park.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the surrounding terrain on the hill.
Attempting to climb the tower during heavy rain or wind, as the exposed observation gallery can become slippery.
Generally open to the public from spring through early autumn; closed during winter months.
Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor as the site serves as a memorial to fallen soldiers.
