The Cesky Krumlov Region is one of the largest areas in Middle Europe still remaining untouched by civilisation in the negative sense. The Novohradske Mountains and Sumava are a part of the
"Green Roof of Europe", which means they are areas of outstanding natural value. The natural beauty of this region forms its basic attraction for many tourists and visitors.
The Cesky Krumlov Region is a paradise for tourists of all ages, satisfying everyone with its superb selection of activities. It is predestined to be a centre for tourists and cyclists on international routes due to its position on the border of three international regions - Bohemia, Austria, and Bavaria. Many people enjoy canoeing on the Vltava river and water sports on the Lipno lake. There many possibilities for sports even in winter. Many buildings, secular and ecclesiastical, remind us of past ages here. The monasteries in Zlata Koruna and Vyssi Brod are of immense cultural and historical value. The pilgrimage site Kajov near Cesky Krumlov is also very interesting. Literally a magnet for visitors is the cradle of the lords of
the red five-petalled rose - the castle Rozmberk nad Vltavou. Also worth mentioning is one of the largest castle ruins in Bohemia - Divci Kamen.
The greatest jewel of the region is a unique architectural and urbanistic complex - the city of Cesky Krumlov, which was added to the List of
the world's natural and cultural heritage UNESCO in 1992. The castle in Cesky Krumlov, founded in the 13
th century, is the second largest in Bohemia. The city is a centre for travel as well as cultural and social events.
Cesky Krumlov, a picturesque southern Bohemian town of medieval origin, lies close to the Austrian and German border, 170 km south of the capital city of Prague. The town is situated at the foot of the wooded Sumava Mountains, which have been declared a National Nature Reserve for their natural beauty. The beautiful countryside features famous southern Bohemian lakes and by Lipno Dam, the largest dam of its type in Central Europe.
The first mention of Cesky Krumlov is dated 1274. The castle was founded in the middle of the 13
th century by the old Vitkovci family. The greatest development of the city occurred under the rule of the powerful Czech Rozmberk family, about 1302.
In 1602 the castle became the property of Emperor Rudolf II., and in 1622 it was given to the Eggenberk family of Styria. After their short rule, the castle was inherited in 1719 by the Schwarzenbergs. The rule of these two families stimulated construction of beautiful buildings such as the castle theater, the Bellarie summer house, the winter riding place, the carnival hall, and other monuments.
For its historical and architectural importance, Cesky Krumlov has been declared a historical "city reservation." The unique character of the city has also been recognized by UNESCO, which placed the city on its list of
three hundred world monuments of architectural importance.
The castle, which, following the Prague castle, is the second largest in Bohemia, has five courtyards and a large park. The castle also boasts an extensive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art. Theater lovers will also find something of interest; the castle premises feature one of the best-preserved Baroque theaters in the world, and another unique theater - with a moving stage - is located in the park. Fans of art will probably be attracted by a number of galleries in Cesky Krumlov and by
the permanent exhibition of originals by Egon Schiele, located in the town's former brewery, a Renaissance structure reconstructed as an international cultural center.
Important cultural and social events, international festivals of theater and music, and historical festivals help to spread the fame of the city today. Due to its vast possibilities for both culture and tourism, Cesky Krumlov has become a significant cultural and social center, in addition to fulfilling its function as a business center.
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