The castle served as the commandery for the Order of the Knights of Malta for over 500 years.
The 35-meter-tall Rumpál tower provides panoramic views and contains remnants of original medieval living quarters.
Strakonice was the primary center for fez hat production in Europe for decades, a history preserved within the castle museum.
The Church of Saint Procopius features original Gothic wall paintings dating back to the early 14th century.
The castle's position at the river junction was strategically chosen to control major trade routes in the Middle Ages.
Castle Strakonice is a fortified complex located at the confluence of the Otava and Volyňka rivers in South Bohemia. Founded in the 13th century, it served as a significant seat of the Order of the Knights of Malta from the 14th century onwards. The architecture features a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, notably the Rumpál tower and the Church of Saint Procopius. The castle grounds house the Museum of Central Otava Region, focusing on local history, textile production, and the traditional manufacture of fez hats. A bridge connects the castle to the town center, maintaining its defensive layout. The site underwent extensive archaeological research revealing medieval residential and ecclesiastical structures.
From the riverbank on the opposite side of the Otava, capturing the reflection of the tower and castle walls in the water.
Climb the Rumpál tower for the best vantage point of the river confluence.
Visit the museum exhibit dedicated to the region's bagpipe tradition, as Strakonice is world-famous for its annual bagpiping festival.
Check the local calendar for events, as the courtyard frequently hosts medieval markets and historical reenactments.
Do not overlook the smaller ecclesiastical buildings within the complex, as many tourists focus only on the main tower.
Museum and tower exhibits are typically closed on Mondays and during the winter season.
