760th anniversary of the founding of České Budějovice: The fascinating history of the city

The history of one of the most significant towns in the South Bohemian Region dates back to 1265. Its foundation is credited to Přemysl Otakar II, known as the "Iron and Gold King."

One of the copies of the deed, in which Knight Hirzo handed over the monastery site to the Dominicans|Photo: SOA České Budějovice

While the process of founding Budějovice began as early as 1263, the pivotal moment occurred on March 10, 1265, when the knight Hirzo, appointed by Přemysl Otakar II to plan the town's layout, handed over the site to the Dominicans. This date marks the only surviving document directly related to the town's founding.

Historical events and development of the town

Tapestry in the city hall of České Budějovice|Photo: Till Janzer, Radio Prague International

The "King of Iron and Gold" granted various privileges to the city, because he was well aware that the new settlement had to be strong not only militarily but also economically. These privileges included, for example, the right to brew beer; so, the history of brewing beer in Budějovice dates back to 1265.

The town gained many more privileges during the reign of Charles IV. In the 14th century the town became the metropolis of South Bohemia, but in the following centuries it suffered from wars, fires and plagues. A favorable turn came in the 19th century, when in 1832 the horse railway to Linz, Austria, was opened.

The oldest veduta in České Budějovice dates from 1602 by the draughtsman and carver Jan Willenberg|Photo: Digital Library of Charles University/Moravian Library in Brno, CC BY 1.0 DEED

Modern České Budějovice

Today, České Budějovice is recognized not only for its rich history but also as a significant educational and cultural hub. Since 1991, it has been home to the University of South Bohemia, and the entire historic center of the city was designated a conservation area in 1980.

Inside of the St. Nicholas Cathedral|Photo: Anton Kajmakov, Radio Prague International

Among its most important landmarks are the monastery, the oldest surviving building from the town's foundation, and St. Nicholas Cathedral, whose foundation stone was laid shortly after Budweis was established.

České Budějovice is also home to one of the largest town squares in Europe, Přemysl Otakar II Square, as well as the Baroque Samson Fountain, the Black Tower, and the city’s fortifications with towers and bastions.

The city is famous for well-known business brands such as the Budvar brewery, the Koh-i-noor Hardtmuth stationery factory, and the Madeta food company.

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