More than 80 attractions on the European Castles and Châteaux Route Czech Republic–Poland

The European Castles and Châteaux Route Czech Republic–Poland links historic buildings in both countries to create a cross-border cultural experience. More than 80 castles and châteaux work closely together as part of the initiative.

The European Castles and Châteaux Route Czech Republic–Poland (Evropská stezka hradů a zámků Česko-Polsko) is developing into one of the most important flagship tourism products in this central European region. Within the INTERREG Czech Republic–Poland 2021–2027 programme, more than 80 historic sites on both sides of the border are now working closely together on the project “Castles and Châteaux Connect Us II”. The aim is to offer travellers unique experiences while at the same time telling a shared story of the rich cultural heritage of Central Europe.

Foto: Pałac Wojanów (PL) | Evropská stezka hradů a zámků Česko-Polsko

The project builds on successful activities from 2019 to 2021 and is currently in a phase of intensive further development. By incorporating additional regions, a coherent and diverse route is being created, which currently includes the following areas:

• In the Czech Republic: Pardubice Region, Hradec Králové Region and Olomouc Region

• In Poland: Lower Silesian and Opole Voivodeship

The European Castles and Châteaux Route is long more than a simple list of attractions. It functions as a living network and makes a measurable contribution to boosting tourism – particularly in lesser-known but culturally highly interesting border regions.

Foto: Hrad Kunětická hora (CZ) | Evropská stezka hradů a zámků Česko-Polsko

More than 80 stops on the map of history

At the heart of the route is the cooperation of more than 80 castles, châteaux and palaces, which together create a strong and recognisable brand. Visitors discover history in a contemporary way: from monumental fortress complexes to smaller, architecturally valuable residences. The project combines historic substance with modern marketing and turns cultural heritage into a key driving force for regional tourism.

“Thanks to the active cooperation of more than 80 sites, the border between the Czech Republic and Poland almost loses its significance along this route. Travellers move between regions and experience how rich the historical heritage is on both sides,” explain the project coordinators.

Foto: Zamek Grodno (PL) | Evropská stezka hradů a zámků Česko-Polsko

Solid funding with support from the European Union

The implementation of the project “Castles and Châteaux Connect Us II” (Hrady a zámky nás spojují II) is largely made possible by funding from European funds. These resources are used in a targeted way to raise awareness of the cultural heritage of the border region and to attract new visitor groups.