Rychnov nad Kněžnou, District town in Hradec Králové Region, Czech Republic
Rychnov nad Kněžnou is a district administrative center in the Hradec Králové Region that sits on elevated ground and oversees several surrounding municipalities. The town contains a castle, museums, and a historic center with religious buildings that mark its transformation from a medieval settlement into a modern government hub.
The settlement was first documented in a deed by King Ottokar II in 1258, while the granting of town privileges by Ferdinand I in 1561 elevated it to the status of a royal seat.
The Kolowrat Castle displays art collections that visitors can explore at their own pace, while the Museum and Gallery preserves local crafts and traditions. These places shape how locals and visitors understand the region's character today.
The town is best explored on foot since the center is compact and the main sights like the castle and churches are within walking distance. Keep in mind that the elevated location means some paths go uphill, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
The Church of the Holy Trinity holds one of the country's largest bells, a crafted piece that visitors often miss upon entering. This instrument still shapes the sound of the town today and represents a work of local craftsmanship that has endured for centuries.
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