Bítov Castle

Bítov, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Bítov Castle, located near the village of Bítov in Czechia, is one of the oldest and largest castles in Moravia, dating back to the 11th century.

Originally a wooden fortification, it was rebuilt as an impregnable Gothic stone castle in the 13th century to guard the southern boundary of the Přemyslid lands. The castle changed hands multiple times, with notable owners including the Lords of Bítov and the Counts of Daun. Over the centuries, it was expanded and remodeled, incorporating Renaissance and Baroque architectural elements, but it retains a strong Neo-Gothic character from 19th-century renovations.

The castle is uniquely built on a steep promontory surrounded on three sides by the Želetavka River, offering dramatic views of the surrounding landscape, which is part of the Podyjí National Park. Among its unique features is a remarkable collection of taxidermied dogs assembled by its last private owner, Baron Haas, alongside finely decorated state rooms reflecting centuries of aristocratic history.

Bítov Castle remains a popular and romantic historic site attracting many visitors interested in architecture, history, and nature.​