Duration: full day trip; two hours drive from Prague
Price: 12.000 CZK for 1 to 6 people with a private driver and a guide + admission to selected interiors
Litomyšl, founded in 1259, is a remarkable place on the cultural map of the Czech Republic, celebrated for its sensitive dialogue between historical heritage and contemporary architecture. The town’s greatest pride is its Renaissance château, whose richly decorated interiors can be visited on guided group tours or, by prior arrangement, privately.
At the heart of Litomyšl lies a charming main square lined with well-preserved historic houses and arcades, home to boutique shops, cosy cafés, excellent restaurants, and small private galleries. A highlight of the visit is the Baroque Church of the Finding of the Holy Cross, an outstanding example of modern architectural revitalisation by renowned Czech architect Josef Pleskot, whose work can also be found at Prague Castle.
Another unique stop is the Portmoneum, the former home of art collector Josef Portman. Its interior walls are entirely painted by his close friend, visionary artist and writer Josef Váchal, offering a powerful and immersive view of his mystical perception of the world. Váchal’s artist books are considered among the most important achievements of 20th-century Czech graphic art.
Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the birthplace of Bedřich Smetana, one of the most celebrated composers of classical music and the author of the symphonic cycle Má vlast (My Homeland).
As a tribute to the composer, the prestigious international music festival Smetana’s Litomyšl is held every June, transforming the entire town into a true “spa for the soul” — a title coined by respected town’s former mayor after plans to establish a real thermal spa ultimately fell through.
An optional excursion leads to the nearby village of Osík, where the private contemporary art gallery White Box is located. This striking standalone pavilion set in a garden functions as both exhibition space and art depot encircling it, and can be visited by prior arrangement.
For lunch, I recommend the acclaimed restaurant Aplaus, known for its refined Czech cuisine and elegant atmosphere.
For more information or to adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences, feel free to contact me by email at betty@praguesteps.com or alzbeta.petrinova@gmail.com
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