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Historical places #3 in Hradec Králové

Bílá věž

4.8 · 2,277 reviews
Quiet and educational with historical reverence.
Bílá věž, č. parcely, Velké nám. 87/2, 500 03 Hradec Králové 3, Czechia
Interesting facts
1

The tower was financed by local citizens rather than the church, distinguishing it from typical ecclesiastical towers.

2

Augustin, the tower's primary bell, weighs 8,300 kilograms and has a diameter of 206 centimeters.

3

The tower's name comes from the bright appearance of the white sandstone used in its construction.

4

A replica of the tower made from thousands of glass beads is on display inside the structure.

5

The tower features a unique 'starry sky' ceiling installation in the upper section.

Overview

Bílá věž (The White Tower) is a 72-meter Renaissance bell tower constructed between 1574 and 1581 in Hradec Králové. It serves as a prominent landmark in the city's Great Square and is characterized by its exterior cladding of Hořice sandstone. The tower houses the third-largest bell in the Czech Republic, named Augustin, which dates to 1509. Visitors ascend the tower to reach an observation gallery offering panoramic views of the city center and the Krkonoše mountains. The interior features a multimedia exhibition detailing the history of the structure and the surrounding urban area. A glass floor section provides a vertical view down the center of the tower. It was built primarily to protect the city against fires and to symbolize local civic pride.

Photo spot

From the observation gallery looking northwest toward the silhouettes of the Giant Mountains.

Insider tips

Check visibility conditions before ascending, as low-hanging clouds can obscure the mountain views.

Wear comfortable footwear for the 226 stairs leading to the viewing gallery.

What to avoid

Attempting to climb the tower during periods of extreme high winds, as the observation gallery may be restricted for safety.

Good to know

Offers night tours during specific seasonal events; otherwise open daily throughout the main tourist season.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon on a clear day provides the best light for photography and the highest chance of distant mountain visibility.
Address
Bílá věž, č. parcely, Velké nám. 87/2, 500 03 Hradec Králové 3, Czechia
Website
50.209, 15.831
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleRenaissance
Key featureAugustin Bell (1509)

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon on a clear day provides the best light for photography and the highest chance of distant mountain visibility..

From the observation gallery looking northwest toward the silhouettes of the Giant Mountains.

Close by you'll find Jirásk's gardens, Šimkovy sady, FORTUNA Arena.