Why is the Baroque Theatre in Krumlov Famous Today?

The primary reason why is the Baroque Theatre in Krumlov famous is its authenticity. It is one of only two theaters in the world that still has its original technical equipment. The other is located in Drottningholm, Sweden. Most other European theaters replaced their wooden machinery with modern steel over time.

The theater was built for the Schwarzenberg family. They wanted a private space for opera and drama. Because it was rarely used in later centuries, it escaped major renovations. Learn more about the Baroque Theatre usage and history to appreciate its rare survival. It still contains hundreds of original costumes and props.

The stage machinery is a marvel of engineering. It uses wooden winches, ropes, and pulleys to change entire scenes in seconds. You can still see the original candle lighting fixtures. These elements create a unique atmosphere that you cannot find anywhere else in the world.

10 Must-See Highlights of the Castle Complex

This list covers the top attractions in Cesky Krumlov for first-timers. Each spot offers a unique look at the town's rich history.

1. Name: The Baroque Theatre Stage Type: sight Why go: It features 18th-century machinery that still works today. Best for: History buffs and engineering fans. Where: Fifth Courtyard of the Castle. Time: 45 minutes (guided tour). Cost: Approx. 300 CZK. Getting there: Walk through the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the theater.
2. Name: Original Scenery Sets Type: sight Why go: These hand-painted flats depict forests, palaces, and gardens from 1766. Best for: Art lovers and designers. Where: Inside the Baroque Theatre. Time: Included in tour. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Part of the theater guided tour. Tip: Look for the clever use of perspective in the paintings.
3. Name: The Orchestra Pit Type: sight Why go: It has a unique double-sided music stand for the musicians. Best for: Music historians. Where: Below the main stage. Time: Included in tour. Cost: Included in tour. Getting there: Part of the theater guided tour. Tip: Imagine the acoustics of a candle-lit opera performance.
4. Name: The Cloak Bridge (Plášťový most) Type: sight Why go: This massive multi-story bridge offers stunning views of the Vltava River. Best for: Sightseeing and photography. Where: Connecting the fourth and fifth courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the main castle area toward the theater. Tip: Visit at sunset for the most beautiful golden light.
5. Name: The Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It is the iconic symbol of the city with 360-degree views. Best for: Photographers. Where: Second Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Approx. 180 CZK. Getting there: Short walk from the main gate. Tip: Consider climbing the Castle Tower early in the morning to avoid crowds.
6. Name: Masquerade Hall Type: indoor Why go: The walls are covered in 18th-century murals of carnival characters. Best for: Art and culture fans. Where: Castle interior (Tour Route I). Time: 1 hour (part of a larger tour). Cost: Approx. 320 CZK. Getting there: Access via the main castle entrance. Tip: Look for the painted figures that seem to step off the walls.
7. Name: The Castle Gardens Type: nature Why go: These formal gardens feature a beautiful cascade fountain. Best for: Relaxation and walking. Where: Behind the Baroque Theatre. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk past the theater and up the hill. Tip: The gardens are closed during the winter months.
8. Name: Revolving Auditorium Type: unique local experience Why go: Watch an open-air play where the entire audience seating area rotates. Best for: Theater enthusiasts. Where: Inside the Castle Gardens. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by performance. Getting there: Walk through the gardens. Tip: Book tickets months in advance as they sell out fast.
9. Name: Vltava River Rafting Type: unique local experience Why go: See the castle and theater from the water for a new perspective. Best for: Active travelers and families. Where: River banks in the town center. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Approx. 500 CZK per raft. Getting there: Walk to any rental shop in the Latrán area. Tip: Prepare to get a little wet at the river weirs.
10. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: This museum honors the famous artist who lived in the town. Best for: Modern art fans. Where: Široká street, town center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Approx. 200 CZK. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the castle entrance. Tip: The museum is housed in a historic 16th-century brewery.

Planning Your Visit to the Castle Complex

Visiting the Baroque Theatre requires some planning. You can only enter the theater as part of a guided tour. These tours are small to protect the fragile interior. Always check the booking tickets for Baroque Theatre guided tours early. They often sell out weeks in advance during the summer.

The theater is typically open from May to October. In the winter, the space is closed to maintain the right humidity. This helps preserve the wooden machinery and painted scenery. Visit the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov website for current schedules. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs.

The town is very walkable but can be steep. Most visitors arrive by bus or train from Prague. The walk from the bus station to the castle takes about 15 minutes. Give yourself a full day to explore the entire complex properly.