The underground system is linked to the historical Plzeň municipal water supply system, which was once the most advanced in Central Europe.
The tunnels were reinforced with stone masonry, and in some sections, original wooden pipe segments remain visible.
During the Second World War, portions of the underground system were repurposed as civilian air-raid shelters.
Excavations revealed significant quantities of 14th-century pottery, glass, and iron objects, providing insight into medieval household life.
The constant cold environment of the cellars was essential for the bottom-fermentation method of beer brewing that defined the Plzeň region.
Groundwater management was a critical part of the tunnel design, featuring an intricate system of channels to prevent flooding in the city cellars.
The Historic Underground of Plzeň consists of a 17-kilometer network of medieval cellars, wells, and corridors built between the 13th and 19th centuries. These structures were originally excavated for food storage, ice preservation, and as a defensive system during times of siege. Visitors traverse an approximately 800-meter guided route that explores the technical evolution of the city's infrastructure. The tour includes the inspection of a historical ice cellar, a water tower, and archaeological artifacts found during the excavation process. Constant temperatures remain low throughout the year, reflecting the environment required for traditional beer fermentation and preservation. The site is physically located beneath the Plzeň city center, with the entrance integrated into the Brewery Museum complex. The labyrinth serves as a unique record of the city's urban development and medieval engineering capabilities.
The illuminated historical ice cellar area, which features unique stone architecture and barrel displays.
Wear a warm jacket regardless of the outdoor weather, as the underground temperature remains consistently low.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear to navigate the damp, uneven stone floorings safely.
Book your entry slot in advance online, as the group sizes are strictly limited for safety and accessibility reasons.
Do not attempt to explore the tunnels without a certified guide; only a small, secured portion is open to the public.
Tours are subject to closure during public holidays or technical maintenance; verify availability via the official portal.
Visitors are required to wear provided hard hats for safety during the duration of the tour.
