Town Blatná

Blatná is surrounded by beautiful ponds and set in gently rolling countryside—bordered to the north by the Brdy forested massif and to the south by open lands stretching toward the Šumava mountains.

Here you'll find the fairytale-like Blatná Water Castle, which, alongside Švihov and Červená Lhota, is one of the best-preserved noble residences built on water in the Czech Republic. The first written mention of Blatná dates back to 1235, when Vyšemír of Blatná appeared as a witness in a charter issued by King Wenceslas I. In the 14th century, the settlement was owned by the Bavors of Strakonice. In the 15th and early 16th centuries, it became the main residence of the Lords of Rožmitál. In 1601, Blatná was elevated to town status by Emperor Rudolf II.

A 42-hectare park adjoins the castle, where a large herd of fallow deer roams freely. These deer, like the resident peacocks, are very tame.

The town on the Lomnice River was the birthplace of the first Resonet electric guitars, which gained international fame—just like the roses cultivated here by breeder Jan Böhm. At one time, the town was nicknamed “Blatná – the Town of Roses.”

Local history and development are presented in a permanent regional exhibition at the municipal museum.

The Blatná region has a strong tradition of stonemasonry and fish farming.

The historic center of Blatná is today a protected heritage zone and a pleasant meeting place for all generations.

The town offers a rich cultural scene and numerous opportunities for active recreation.

Blatná and its surroundings are well-known among filmmakers. Movies and fairy tales filmed here include “The White Lady” and “The Incredibly Sad Princess,” among others.

Notable Natives and Figures:

• Karel Strakatý – Opera singer, first performer of the national anthem “Kde domov můj”
• Jan Pravoslav Koubek – National Revival poet
• Vojtěch Hřímalý Sr. – Organist and composer
• Vilém Ignác Petters – Physician
• Jan Hála – Painter, illustrator, and chronicler of Slovak village life
• Josef Solar – Graphic artist, calligrapher, and painter
• Kamil Běhounek – Swing accordionist and composer
• Dimitrij Slonim – Virologist, writer, and art collector
• Jan Mikuláš Hála – Painter and restorer
• Jan Evangelista Purkyně – Worked at the local castle
• Jan Böhm – Rose breeder

Our Tip:

In August, Blatná hosts its traditional fair and beer festival.
Numerous cultural events are organized by the Center for Culture and Education in Blatná (www.ckvb.cz) and local associations.
Blatná is a town of community, sports, and theatre—local amateur theatrical performances are especially popular.