You Are Here – Český Krumlov

This is the third and the last (for now) mug from a recent trio release from the Czech Republic.

The You Are Here Český Krumlov mug takes us to one of the best-preserved historic towns in Czechia. Český Krumlov developed around a castle established in the 13th century on a bend of the Vltava River and flourished under the powerful Rosenberg family for several centuries. Its remarkably intact medieval and Renaissance center, together with the castle complex overlooking it, earned Český Krumlov a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992. The Vltava winds directly through the historic center, giving the town its distinctive shape and some of its most recognizable views.

– The Český Krumlov Castle dominates the front of the mug, just as it dominates the real town from its rocky position above the Vltava. Founded in the 13th century, the enormous complex was gradually expanded by the Rosenbergs and later owners, resulting in a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. With dozens of buildings arranged around five courtyards, extensive gardens, and its distinctive tower, it is the second-largest castle complex in Czechia after Prague Castle.

– The Bear Moat at Český Krumlov Castle continues a tradition stretching back several centuries. Bears have been kept in the moat beneath the castle since at least the early 18th century, although references to bears at the castle go back even further. The tradition was connected to the Rosenbergs, who claimed a family connection to the Italian Orsini family – whose name is derived from the Italian word for bear.

– The colorful buildings of Svornosti Square represent the historic heart of Český Krumlov. The compact main square is surrounded by Renaissance and Baroque houses and includes the town hall and an 18th-century plague column. Its irregular layout has changed relatively little over the centuries and reflects the medieval development of the town.

– The rows of historic Latrán houses represent one of the oldest parts of Český Krumlov. Latrán developed beneath the castle and was traditionally home to craftsmen, merchants, and people whose work was connected with the castle. Its narrow street is still lined with colorful Gothic and Renaissance houses and leads through the district toward the castle complex.

– St. Vitus Church is another major landmark rising above the historic center. Construction of the present Gothic church began in the early 15th century on the site of an earlier church, and it became an important religious counterpart to the castle on the opposite side of the Vltava. Its tall neo-Gothic tower, added during later renovations, remains one of the defining features of the Český Krumlov skyline.

– Finally, kayaking and canoeing on the Vltava River offer a completely different way to explore Český Krumlov. Boats can be rented locally for trips through the bends of the river, passing directly beneath the historic buildings and castle. Paddling the Vltava is extremely popular during the warmer months and provides some of the best views of the town from water level.