City walls of Polička

The city walls of Polička form a defensive structure built around the town center using local stone with towers positioned at key points. The construction shows typical medieval fortification design meant to guard the settlement and control movement in and out.

The fortification was built in the 13th century on orders from a Bohemian ruler to protect an important trade route between regions. The walls were raised to guard the growing settlement and secure commerce along the path.

The walls reflect how medieval townspeople designed their community with military protection in mind, shaping a fortified hub for trade and settlement. Walking around them today shows how defense and commerce were intertwined in daily town life.

You can walk along sections of the walls and visit the towers to enjoy views of the town and surrounding area. The routes are straightforward to follow and allow for stops at various points around the fortification.

The walls have remained remarkably intact over centuries while many other European fortifications deteriorated or were destroyed. This preservation happened partly because fires that damaged other town buildings left the stone walls unharmed.