Understanding Spilberk Castle History and Tickets

The castle was founded in the 13th century by King Ottokar II. It began as a Gothic royal residence. Over the centuries, it became a massive baroque fortress. This site played a key role during the Thirty Years' War. It successfully resisted the Swedish siege in 1645. This victory is a proud moment in local history.

Later, the fortress became a notorious prison. It was known as the "Prison of Nations" during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Many political prisoners from across Europe were held here. You can learn more about this dark period in the history of the prison at Spilberk Castle. The cells remain a chilling reminder of the past.

When planning your trip, consider the various ticket options. You can buy individual tickets for specific exhibitions. There is also a combined ticket for the entire complex. Prices usually range from 100 to 350 CZK depending on your choice. For the latest details, check the Spilberk Castle casemates opening hours and prices page. Booking online is often faster during the summer peak.

10 Best Things to See at Spilberk Castle

There is so much to explore within the castle walls. We have compiled a list of the top experiences. These items mix history, views, and unique culture. Use this list to prioritize your sightseeing. Most visitors spend at least three hours here. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for the hill climb.

• Quick Pick: Best for History - The Casemates
• Quick Pick: Best View - The Lookout Tower
• Quick Pick: Best Free Activity - Walking the Castle Moat
• Quick Pick: Best for Families - The Carillon Performance

1. Name: The Casemates Type: Sight Why go: Experience the dark atmosphere of the former prison cells. Best for: History buffs Where: Castle basement levels Time: 45-60 minutes Cost: Approx. 120-150 CZK Getting there: Follow signs from the main courtyard. Tip: Bring a light jacket as it is cold underground even in summer.
2. Name: The Lookout Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Get a 360-degree view of Brno and the surrounding Moravian countryside. Best for: Photographers Where: Eastern corner of the castle Time: 20 minutes Cost: Included in some combined tickets Getting there: Access via the stairs in the main courtyard. Tip: Go at sunset for the best lighting over the city.
3. Name: The Castle Chapel of the Holy Trinity Type: Experience Why go: Admire the beautiful baroque architecture and religious art. Best for: Art lovers Where: Main castle wing Time: 15 minutes Cost: Usually included in museum entry Getting there: Enter through the Brno City Museum wing. Tip: Look up to see the intricate ceiling frescoes.
4. Name: The Large Courtyard Carillon Type: Experience Why go: Listen to 15 bronze bells playing melodies every hour. Best for: Families Where: Main courtyard Time: 5 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk into the center of the castle. Tip: The carillon plays different songs depending on the season.
5. Name: Brno City Museum Exhibitions Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the city's evolution from the Middle Ages to today. Best for: General visitors Where: Multiple floors in the main palace Time: 1.5 - 2 hours Cost: 150-200 CZK Getting there: Main entrance is located in the courtyard. Tip: Check out the cultural attractions in Brno for more museum ideas.
6. Name: The Baroque Pharmacy Type: Sight Why go: See a perfectly preserved historical pharmacy from the 18th century. Best for: Unique interests Where: Museum wing Time: 15 minutes Cost: Part of museum ticket Getting there: Follow the museum tour route. Tip: Notice the ornate wooden cabinets and old medicine jars.
7. Name: The Southern Bastion Type: Viewpoint Why go: Enjoy a peaceful walk with views of the Cathedral. Best for: Relaxation Where: Southern edge of the castle grounds Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Walk along the outer defensive walls. Tip: This is a great spot for a picnic.
8. Name: 10-Z Bunker Type: Day Trip/Experience Why go: Explore a nuclear shelter built into the castle hill. Best for: Cold War history Where: Husova street, at the base of the hill Time: 1 hour Cost: 180-240 CZK Getting there: Walk down from the castle toward the city center. Tip: Visit the 10-Z Bunker for a retro experience.
9. Name: Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul Type: Sight Why go: Visit the iconic twin towers visible from the castle. Best for: Architecture Where: Petrov Hill, nearby Time: 45 minutes Cost: Free (towers have a small fee) Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the castle park. Tip: Read our guide on the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul before going.
10. Name: Denis Gardens Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: Walk through beautiful parks on the way to the castle. Best for: Couples Where: Between the Cathedral and the castle Time: 30 minutes Cost: Free Getting there: Accessible from Husova street. Tip: This is one of the most romantic spots in Brno.

Practical Tips for Your Spilberk Visit

To reach the castle, you must walk uphill. There are several paths through the surrounding park. The most popular route starts from Husova street. You can find more details on how to get to Spilberk Castle from city center here. Public transport is very efficient in Brno. You can check schedules on the DPMB official site for local trams.

The castle is open year-round. However, the casemates may have shorter hours in winter. Summer is the best time for outdoor concerts and festivals. Always check the official tourism portal for event updates. Many shows take place in the large courtyard during July and August. These events often require separate tickets from the museum entry.

Accessibility can be a challenge due to the steep terrain. Most of the courtyards are accessible for wheelchairs. However, the casemates and the tower involve many stairs. If you have limited mobility, stick to the main museum levels. There are elevators available in the main building. Staff members are usually very helpful with directions.