Telč is one of the most charming towns in the Czech Republic, a true architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of southern Moravia. With one of the most beautiful Renaissance squares in Europe, pastel-coloured houses, picturesque ponds and a perfectly preserved castle, Telč looks like something out of a fairy tale. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must-see destination for those who want to immerse themselves in a historic, romantic and timeless atmosphere.
In the heart of southern Moravia, nestled in a landscape of tranquil ponds, rolling hills and romantic bridges, lies Telč, one of the most charming towns in the Czech Republic. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, Telč is an architectural gem that looks like something out of a Renaissance fairy tale.
Its perfectly preserved historic centre revolves around Náměstí Zachariáše z Hradce, one of the most beautiful and picturesque squares in Europe. The facades of the houses surrounding it – pastel-coloured and decorated with stucco, graffiti and arched porticoes – create a unique visual effect, reflecting in the small lakes that enclose the town in a harmonious embrace. Legend has it that the wealthy citizens of the time started a sort of 'beauty contest', showing off their wealth through the beauty of their homes. The result? An explosion of elegance that enchants every visitor.
A few steps from the square is the majestic Telč Castle, one of the best-preserved examples of Renaissance architecture in Bohemia. Built in the 16th century on the foundations of a previous Gothic structure, the castle now offers guided tours of sumptuous frescoed rooms, period furniture, art galleries and manicured gardens. This is where the family of the Lords of Hradec lived, under whose rule Telč enjoyed its golden age.
Walking through Telč means immersing yourself in centuries of history. The Town History Museum recounts the medieval origins of the settlement, which was re-founded in the 14th century after a devastating fire. Many of the houses around the square still retain their original features: just think of the house at number 15, decorated with refined Renaissance graffiti rediscovered only in 1952, or the house at number 57, with its charming Baroque façade.
Surrounded by artificial ponds created in the Middle Ages as a defensive system, Telč has retained its original urban layout. Today, these ponds add charm to the landscape and offer ideal views for postcard photographs. The town's strategic location, halfway between Prague and Vienna, also makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, even in a camper van.
Telč is not just to be admired: it is to be experienced. From its dreamlike square to its cosy cafés, from walks along the lakes to cultural visits to its palaces and museums, every corner offers something exciting. Here, the Italian Renaissance found a perfect echo beyond the Alps, giving life to a small but great urban masterpiece.
Once upon a time there was Telč... and luckily, it still exists.
City of Telč
Country Czech Republic
Jihlava District
Vysočina Region
Population: 5,722
Altitude: 514 m above sea level
BY PLANE
During a visit to Telč, you cannot miss out on sampling traditional Czech cuisine, which is rich, hearty and deeply rooted in the local culture. Among the typical dishes to try is undoubtedly vepřo knedlo zelo, one of the most popular dishes: roast pork served with bread dumplings (knedlíky) and stewed sauerkraut. Other popular specialities include svíčková na smetaně, beef fillet in a creamy sauce accompanied by cream and cranberries, and a tasty meat soup inspired by Hungarian cuisine but adapted to Czech tastes. Foodies should not miss bramborák, a crispy potato and garlic pancake, perfect as a snack. For those with a sweet tooth, trdelník – although originally from Slovakia – is very popular at markets and among tourists, while koláče, soft leavened cakes filled with cheese, jam or poppy seeds, are the most authentic traditional pastries. Of course, everything should be accompanied by one of the famous Czech beers, among the most renowned in the world for their quality and tradition.
