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Castle · Pardubice, Pardubice
Pardubice Castle
Former moated castle transformed by the Pernštejn lords at the turn of the 15th–16th centuries into a Renaissance residence protected by earthen ramparts, bastions and a moat. It houses the East Bohemia Museum.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pardubice Castle
Pardubice Castle grew from a medieval water-surrounded fortress near the confluence of the Elbe and the Chrudimka. In 1491, Vilém II of Pernštejn purchased the Pardubice estate and turned the castle into a four-wing residence, a project continued by his sons. In 1560 the estate passed to the Crown, and the complex retained the form from the Pernštejn era.
What most distinguishes the site is the fortification: high earthen ramparts with bulwarks and a surrounding moat encircle the castle. The courtyard and ramparts can be walked freely, like a park in the city center, with views over the roofs of Pardubice.
Inside, the knights’ halls preserve Renaissance mural paintings, painted wooden ceilings and fireplace frames. The castle is home to the East Bohemia Museum, with permanent and temporary exhibitions; the route dedicated to the Pernštejn residence shows the oldest interiors.
The complex has been a national cultural monument since 2010. After decades of neglect, restoration gained momentum in the 1990s when the museum took over management.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 hours with the exhibits; half an hour for the courtyard and ramparts.
Best time
By day, Tuesday to Sunday, when the exhibitions usually open. The courtyard and ramparts can be visited in a wider time window. Confirm opening hours before you go.
How to get there
In the historic center, a few minutes’ walk from Pernštýnské náměstí. From the main station it is about 2 km, on foot or by city bus.
Tip
Walk the full circuit of the earthen ramparts before going inside: it’s the best way to understand the Pernštejn fortification.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pardubice Castle
Who built Pardubice Castle?
The present residence is the work of the Pernštejn lords, who bought Pardubice in 1491 and transformed the old water castle.
What is inside Pardubice Castle?
The East Bohemia Museum, with painted Renaissance halls and permanent exhibitions.
Can you visit the walls without entering the museum?
Yes. The courtyard and the earthen ramparts are usually open to passersby; paid entry is for the exhibitions.