A Journey Through Time in South Moravia
Sedlec u Mikulova and its surroundings are rich in historical landmarks that reflect the deep history of this region. Situated near some of South Moravia’s most significant cultural and historical sites, the area blends medieval architecture, noble heritage, and a unique winemaking tradition. If you love history, architecture, and beautiful landscapes, these historical landmarks will surely captivate you.
Portz Insel Château
This Baroque summer palace from the 17th century was commissioned by Cardinal Franz von Dietrichstein on an artificial island in the now-vanished Portz Pond. The château served as a hunting lodge and a retreat. After years of neglect, it has recently been restored and now functions as a winery and cultural center. Visiting this site offers a unique combination of history and wine tasting.
Mikulov Castle
Just a few kilometers from Sedlec, Mikulov Castle dominates the townscape as the former residence of the Dietrichstein family. Originally a Gothic fortress, it was later rebuilt in the Renaissance and Baroque styles. Today, it houses the Regional Museum of Mikulov, featuring exhibitions on winemaking, regional history, and a vast library with rare prints. The stunning view from the castle terrace makes it one of the most scenic locations in the region.
Holy Hill (SvatĂ˝ kopeÄŤek)
One of Mikulov’s most famous landmarks, Holy Hill, is a pilgrimage site featuring the Baroque Chapel of St. Sebastian and a scenic Way of the Cross. This hill provides breathtaking views of the town and surrounding vineyards. Historically, it was a place of spiritual retreat and remains a popular destination for both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.
Kozà Hrádek
The ruins of Kozà Hrádek, located in Mikulov, offer a stunning panoramic view of the castle, Holy Hill, and the surrounding landscape. Originally built as part of the town's fortifications, it played a defensive role in Mikulov's history. Today, it is a favorite spot for walks and historical excursions.
Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape
About 10 kilometers from Sedlec lies one of Europe’s most significant cultural landscapes, the UNESCO-listed Lednice-Valtice area. This region features vast parks, water canals, the Lednice and Valtice châteaux, and romantic structures like the Minaret and Jan’s Castle. Lednice Château, an example of peak Romanticism, is one of the most visited sites in the Czech Republic.
Reistna Colonnade
Overlooking Valtice, this monumental structure was built in the 19th century to honor the Liechtenstein family. Inspired by ancient architecture, it offers a spectacular view of the landscape stretching between the Czech Republic and Austria.
Mikulov Synagogue and Jewish Cemetery
Mikulov was a major center of Jewish culture for centuries, serving as one of the most important Jewish settlements in the Czech lands. The well-preserved Baroque synagogue and the extensive Jewish cemetery, which contains over 4,000 gravestones, stand as significant reminders of the once-thriving Jewish community.
Border Château
This Classical-style hunting château, located near the Lednice-Valtice area, served as a border residence for the Liechtenstein family. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction offering guided tours of its historical interiors and scenic surroundings.
Valtice Château
The Baroque residence of the Liechtenstein family is one of the most beautiful castles in the Czech Republic. Today, it houses the National Wine Center, where visitors can enjoy tastings of the finest Moravian wines. A visit to Valtice is a perfect combination of history and viticulture.
Nesyt Pond
Beyond historical landmarks, the region also boasts rich natural heritage. Nesyt Pond is the largest pond in Moravia and an important ornithological site. The surrounding areas include protected natural reserves such as Slanisko u Nesytu and Sedlecké Skalky.
The surroundings of Sedlec u Mikulova are exceptionally rich in history and culture. Whether you are interested in noble residences, Jewish heritage, pilgrimage sites, or military fortifications, this region offers an abundance of attractions. The blend of history, stunning natural landscapes, and winemaking traditions makes this one of the most captivating parts of South Moravia.