Underground water drainage system in Slavonice, Underground drainage system in Slavonice, Czech Republic.
The underground water drainage system in Slavonice is a network of tunnels and chambers beneath the medieval town center designed to control water flow and prevent flooding. The passages vary in size and shape, running through different depths underground to handle water from various parts of the town.
The system was built during medieval times when the town needed protection from water damage as it expanded. Builders created these underground passages to solve the practical challenge of managing water in a low-lying area.
The drainage system is woven into how locals understand their town's relationship with water and survival. People pass down stories about the tunnels and how earlier generations managed the constant challenge of moisture and flooding.
Access to the system is limited and visitors should check ahead about which sections are open since not all areas are always accessible. Tours work best on dry days, as rain can raise water levels in certain passages making exploration difficult.
The construction uses local stone arranged in specific patterns to optimize both durability and water flow in ways that were unusual for medieval engineering. Few other medieval towns developed similar techniques for their underground water systems.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.