Valtice

Valtice, a town in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, is a place where history, viticulture, and architectural splendor intertwine. Known as the 'Moravian capital of wine,' Valtice is surrounded by vineyards in the warmest area of the Czech Republic, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate wine. The town's historical center is a protected urban conservation zone, and it forms a significant part of the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This cultural landscape, spanning approximately 283 square kilometers, is one of Europe's most extensive man-made landscapes, meticulously crafted over centuries by the Liechtenstein family. Valtice offers a blend of Baroque grandeur, evidenced in its magnificent chateau, and a relaxed, countryside rhythm that invites exploration on foot or by bicycle. From underground wine cellars to grand halls, Valtice provides a captivating journey through the region's deep heritage.

From Fortification to Princely Residence

The origins of Valtice can be traced back to the 11th century, when a fortification, then known as Ospel or Feldsberg, stood on its site. The first written mention of the village dates to 1192. Over time, it transitioned from a strategic outpost to a noble residence.

The Liechtenstein family's connection to Valtice began between 1387 and 1395, when they gradually acquired the entire estate. From 1391 until 1945, Valtice remained under their ownership. During the 1660s, the Liechtenstein clan made Valtice their main residence, initiating significant construction that transformed the original castle into the Baroque chateau seen today.

Renowned European builders contributed to the chateau's design, which acquired its present Baroque appearance through costly reconstructions in the 17th and 18th centuries. The chateau chapel, completed in 1729, stands as a remarkable example of Baroque architecture in Central Europe. The chateau theatre was added at the end of the 18th century.

Valtice's geopolitical status shifted significantly after World War I. Historically part of Lower Austria, it was annexed by the newly established Czechoslovakia under the 1919 Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a treaty that came into effect on August 9, 1920. The town was occupied by Nazi Germany in 1938 and incorporated into the Reichsgau Niederdonau. Following World War II, the chateau was plundered, and the remaining German population was expelled. The castle was then confiscated by the Czechoslovak government, ending centuries of Liechtenstein stewardship.

In 1996, Valtice Chateau, as an integral part of the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List, recognizing its unique blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and neo-Gothic architecture, and its history as a designed cultural landscape.

The focal point of Valtice is the magnificent Valtice Chateau, a Baroque architectural marvel that served as the principal residence of the Liechtenstein family. Visitors can explore its opulent interiors, adorned with Baroque and Rococo furnishings, ceiling paintings depicting mythological motifs, and the elaborately decorated Chapel of the Holy Trinity. Guided tours, such as the Grand Representation tour or the Princely Apartment tour, offer insights into the chateau's history and the lives of its former inhabitants.

Beneath the chateau, and throughout the town, lies a network of historic wine cellars, some dating back to the 13th century. The Wine Salon of the Czech Republic, located in the chateau's basement, offers a permanent tasting exhibition of the finest Moravian and Bohemian wines. You can also explore the Valtice Underground, a labyrinth of interconnected cellars.

Beyond the chateau, the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape extends with various architectural follies and natural beauty. Explore the Chateau Herb Garden, featuring over 300 species of herbs. The Baroque Chateau Theatre, with its restored machinery, offers a glimpse into historical performances. Other notable structures within the landscape include the neoclassical Colonnade on Reistna and the Temple of Diana (Rendez-vous). For a deeper dive into recent history, the Museum of the Iron Curtain provides a look at the guarding of the Czechoslovak border during the Cold War.

Valtice is best visited during the warmer months, from May through September, when the weather is pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C. This period is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the outdoor attractions of the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape. The chateau generally has more extensive opening hours in July and August, often open daily. Spring and autumn also offer agreeable weather with fewer crowds, though the chateau operates on a more limited schedule during these shoulder seasons. The vineyards are green in summer, and the area hosts various seasonal markets and wine fairs.

Valtice is located in South Moravia, close to the Austrian border, approximately 50 kilometers south of Brno. You can reach Valtice by car via the I/40 road or by train on the Břeclav–Znojmo railway line, with stops at Valtice or Valtice město stations. Trains from Břeclav, which has connections to Brno, Vienna, and Bratislava, run at least once an hour. A local bus, number 555, connects Valtice with Lednice, though its frequency varies, so checking the schedule in advance is advisable.

Paid parking is available at Náměstí Svobody, Sklepní Street, and Pod zámkem Street, with the latter accommodating buses. While pets on a leash are permitted in the castle surroundings, they are not allowed on guided tours or in exhibitions. Bicycles are prohibited in the central part of the palace, but a bike shed is available for a small fee. Wheelchair access is provided for the ground floor of the castle, including the information center, shop, courtyard, café, wine shop, toilets, theatre, winter riding hall, and terraces. The main guided tour on the first floor and exhibitions on the second floor are not wheelchair accessible.