Kotnov Tower and Bechyně Gate

This Tábor landmark is visible from afar, and also offers a beautiful view in reverse: from its gallery, you can enjoy the landscape and town from a bird’s eye view. Moreover, Kotnov Castle boasts the title of national cultural monument, and is also the oldest architectural monument in the town.

It was 1370 when the first written record was made of the castle which stands guard over the present-day town of Tábor. The passage of time, and several fires, gradually weakened its defensive significance. The castle began to take on an economic role, until it was finally converted into a brewery in the 1610s.

The most important preserved part of the castle is the Kotnov Tower, named after the mythical Knight Kotenov. The castle tower is right beside the Bechyně Gate, the last of the town gates. Unlike the Kotnov Tower, it has retained its original high Gothic character thanks to sensitive modifications by architect Josef Mocker. Its impressive interior can acquaint you with the local way of life, and people’s work in the Middle Ages.

Location detail

The height of the tower is 25 metres
155 stairs lead to the tower’s gallery