Špilberk Castle (Špilas)
Jihomoravský kraj
Špilberk Castle is a prominent landmark dominating the skyline of Brno in Southern Moravia. Originally established in the first half of the 13th century by the Přemyslid kings and completed by King Ottokar II of Bohemia, it initially served as a major royal castle and the seat of Moravian margraves. Over the centuries, the castle was transformed into a massive baroque citadel that played a crucial role in defending the city, notably against Swedish raids during the Thirty Years' War. However, Špilberk is perhaps most infamous for its dark era as the harshest prison in the Austrian Empire. Its dreaded cells held a wide array of inmates, from hardened criminals to prominent political prisoners, including Italian Carbonari, Polish revolutionaries, and French Jacobins. Today, having shed its grim past and military function, the fortress serves as a cultural hub and the seat of the Brno City Museum, offering visitors a deep dive into its multifaceted history.
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Tip: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the various exhibitions of the Brno City Museum, including the infamous prison casemates. The hilltop location also offers excellent panoramic views of Brno, making it a great spot for photography. Consider checking the museum's official website for current exhibitions and combined ticket options before your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The castle was once widely considered the harshest prison in the entire Austrian Empire.
- •Italian poet Silvio Pellico spent eight years imprisoned here and made the fortress famous across Europe with his book 'Le mie prigioni' (My Prisons).
- •Jean-Baptiste Drouet, the man famous for arresting French King Louis XVI, was among the notable prisoners held at Špilberk.
- •The controversial Austrian soldier Franz Freiherr von der Trenck was jailed at the castle and died there on October 4, 1749.
- •The fortress is frequently referenced in Stendhal's famous historical novel 'The Charterhouse of Parma'.
History
Construction of Špilberk began in the 13th century under the Přemyslid dynasty.
In 1560, the town of Brno purchased the castle, converting it into a municipal fortress that successfully defended against Swedish sieges during the Thirty Years' War.
Following the 1620 Battle of White Mountain, it became a prison for anti-Habsburg insurgents, eventually evolving into the Austrian Empire's most feared penitentiary.
The prison was dissolved by Emperor Franz Joseph in 1855 and converted into military barracks.
During both World Wars, it briefly reverted to a place of oppression, holding political prisoners and Czech patriots, before finally becoming the Brno City Museum in 1960.
Place Guide
The Prison Cells for State Prisoners1822
Located in the northern wing of the former fortress, these specially constructed cells were used to hold 'state prisoners' and hardened criminals. This area became infamous across Europe as the harshest prison in the Austrian Empire, housing Italian Carbonari, Polish revolutionaries, and Hungarian Jacobins.
Brno City Museum1960
Since 1960, the castle has served as the headquarters for the Brno City Museum. The museum utilizes the historic spaces to showcase the rich history of the castle, the city of Brno, and various cultural exhibitions.
Contact
Phone: 542 123 611
