The Fascinating Cloak Bridge Architecture and History

The story of the bridge began in the 15th century. Originally, it was a simple wooden bridge with a drawbridge. The current stone structure was built in phases during the 18th century. You can learn more about why the bridge exists and its early defensive roles. It evolved from a fortification into a grand walkway for the nobility.

The bridge is also known as Plášťový most. It stands on massive stone pillars that resemble a Roman aqueduct. These pillars support several levels of covered passages. This allowed the lords to walk to the theater without braving the weather. Today, it is a key part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in the city.

Walking across the bridge feels like stepping back in time. The thick stone walls and arched windows offer framed views of the town. Each level of the bridge served a specific purpose for the castle residents. The design reflects the wealth of the Eggenberg and Schwarzenberg families. Their influence shaped the Cloak Bridge architecture and history over several centuries.

Unique Design Features of the Bridge

The bridge features a unique three-story design. The lowest level is an open walkway for the public. Above this, two levels of enclosed corridors connect the castle buildings. These corridors are part of the castle complex guide for visitors today. They link the Fourth Courtyard directly to the Fifth Courtyard and the theater.

Baroque statues line the open walkway of the bridge. These sculptures depict saints and religious figures important to the region. They add an artistic layer to the massive stone engineering. The bridge perfectly blends functional design with aesthetic beauty. It is a rare example of a bridge that acts as a multi-level hallway.

The view from the bridge is world-famous. You can see the Vltava River winding through the medieval town center. The orange rooftops and the castle tower create a fairytale scene. Many visitors spend hours capturing the perfect angle of the arches. The bridge is truly the architectural heart of Český Krumlov.

10 Essential Sights to See Around the Cloak Bridge

To fully appreciate the area, you should explore these specific spots. Each offers a different perspective on the Cloak Bridge architecture and history. Here are our top picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: The Fifth Courtyard Viewpoint
• Best for families: The Castle Bear Moat
• Best rainy-day: The Covered Castle Corridors
• Best free: The Lower Public Walkway

1. Name: The Lower Public Walkway Type: experience Why go: This is the main path most visitors take across the bridge. It offers stunning views of the town. Best for: Everyone and first-time visitors. Where: Between the 4th and 5th courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the castle courtyards. Tip: Visit at sunrise for the best light without the crowds.
2. Name: The Upper Covered Corridors Type: sight Why go: These private passages allowed the nobility to stay dry while walking. You can see them from the outside or during a tour. Best for: History buffs and architecture fans. Where: The top two levels of the bridge. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in specific castle tours. Getting there: Accessible via the official castle website tour bookings. Tip: Look for the small windows that provide unique framed views.
3. Name: The Castle Baroque Theater Type: sight Why go: The bridge was built specifically to provide easy access to this theater. It is one of the best-preserved in the world. Best for: Culture lovers. Where: Directly connected to the bridge's upper level. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Paid tour required. Getting there: Follow the path from the bridge. Tip: Book a Baroque Theater tour well in advance.
4. Name: The Castle Tower Type: sight Why go: Climbing the tower gives you an aerial view of the bridge's massive arches. You can see how it spans the valley. Best for: Photographers. Where: Near the Second Courtyard. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: A short walk from the bridge. Tip: Try climbing the castle tower just before sunset.
5. Name: The Fifth Courtyard Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: This is one of the best viewpoints in the city. You look back at the bridge and the town. Best for: Iconic photos. Where: Just past the bridge towards the garden. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the Cloak Bridge. Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole bridge.
6. Name: The Castle Garden Type: nature Why go: The bridge leads you directly into these beautiful 18th-century gardens. It is a peaceful escape from the busy town. Best for: Relaxation and families. Where: At the end of the castle path. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across the bridge and up the hill. Tip: Visit the castle gardens to see the revolving theater.
7. Name: View from the Vltava River Type: experience Why go: Seeing the bridge from below reveals its true height. It looks like a giant stone wall from the water. Best for: Adventurous travelers. Where: On the river under the bridge. Time: 1 hour (rafting). Cost: Varies by raft rental. Getting there: Rent a raft in the town center. Tip: This is one of the photo spots you shouldn't miss.
8. Name: The Bear Moat Type: sight Why go: While not the bridge itself, the moat it spans is famous for its bears. The bears have lived here for centuries. Best for: Families with children. Where: Between the first and second courtyards. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main entrance to the castle. Tip: The bears are most active during morning feeding times.
9. Name: St. Vitus Statues Type: sight Why go: These statues are key parts of the bridge's Baroque decoration. They represent the religious history of Bohemia. Best for: Art lovers. Where: On the bridge balustrades. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on the main walkway. Tip: Read the inscriptions on the bases for historical context.
10. Name: Minorite Monastery Complex Type: day trip Why go: This nearby complex offers a quieter look at medieval architecture. It provides context for the city's religious life. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: A 10-minute walk from the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Paid entry. Getting there: Walk through the Latran neighborhood. Tip: Check the Wikipedia page for more on the city's layout.

Essential Travel Tips for Your Visit

Visiting the bridge requires some planning. The castle courtyards are open daily, but the bridge can get very crowded. Large tour groups often arrive by 10:00 AM. If you want a peaceful experience, arrive early in the morning. Late evening is also a great time for photography.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The paths are made of old cobblestones and can be uneven. There are also some steep inclines as you walk toward the gardens. If you have mobility issues, the lower walkway is the most accessible part. The upper corridors are only accessible via stairs during tours.

Don't forget to look at the bridge from different levels. Many people only walk across the top. However, walking on the road below the bridge is equally impressive. You can see the massive stone pillars up close. This helps you truly understand the Cloak Bridge architecture and history and its scale.