Water Castle Svihov

Švihov, Czechia, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Water Castle Švihov is one of the best-preserved Gothic water castles in the Czech Republic, located in the town of Švihov in the Plzeň Region.

Built mainly in the late 15th and early 16th centuries by the noble Rýzmberk family, it is famous for its impressive system of moats, walls, and bastions that made it one of the strongest fortresses of its time. The castle was designed as a fortified residence surrounded by water, with advanced defenses that could flood the surrounding area when needed.

Despite wars and periods of decline, much of the structure survived and has been carefully restored. Today, Švihov Castle is a national cultural monument and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its historic halls, chapel, and fortifications, and many also recognize it as a filming location for the classic fairy-tale movie Three Wishes for Cinderella.