Discover the Towns of Czech Queens: A Perfect Getaway to Escape Boredom!

Cities filled with the scents of royal garments and gloves, where the sounds of gothic choirs blend with the activity of bustling markets. Once, these cities were the domains of Czech queens, and today they call to romantics, sightseeing enthusiasts, architectural aficionados, and casual explorers. These magical cities illustrate one of the early tales of women’s influence in medieval Bohemia, and they are still worth visiting. Walk in the footsteps of Bohemian princesses, queens, and empresses who treasured these places, as suggested by Where to go from Boredom. Can you imagine how thrilled they would have been to participate in their own historical fiestas and festivals today?

What exactly are the eternal cities? And why should they interest you?

These cities, known as royal towns, were managed by the wives of Bohemian rulers. These towns were part of the queens’ dowries, providing them with financial freedom. While the list of these towns changed over centuries, there have been nine key dowry towns for Bohemian queens: Hradec Králové, Chrudim, Jaroměř, Mělník, Nový Bydžov, Polička, Trutnov, and Vysoké Mýto.

The system of dowry towns was initiated by Charles IV, although these locations had earlier been granted to queens by previous monarchs. The logic was straightforward: queens needed secure places to store their crowns and maintain their stature in case of widowhood or shifting political dynamics. Surprisingly, the official existence of dowry towns continued until 1918, when the independent Czechoslovak Republic was formed.

Why, you might ask, are most of these nine significant dowry towns located in East Bohemia? It’s due to their connection with crucial trade routes. Having revenue from markets and customs was far more valuable to any queen than a mere string of pearls. Moreover, during Christmas and Easter, these dowry towns would send practical gifts to the royal court. At Which Way from Boredom, we have a selection of stories about these dowry cities, each offering unique treasures.

Queens within the city network: where their legacy remains

Cities with queenly connections are not just locations on a map; they are like old gemstones, appearing ordinary until viewed closely. Each city carries echoes of female history, political maneuvering, and personal tales. Though queens no longer reside here, these places still have a regal presence—offering peace, culture, and beauty.

Trace their paths, and who knows—this journey might remind you that even a seemingly “secondary” role in history can have the power to shape the narrative.

Hradec Králové

The most significant dowry town and the place where Czech queens often visited. Thanks to their presence, the town officially adopted the name Hradec Králové in 1790. The influence of the queens in this town was tangible—some even wielded real power. For instance, Eliška Rejčka spent many years here, and you can still stroll along Eliška’s Embankment or partake in the Queen Eliška Festival, which features historical fairs, knights, court ladies, and enchanting lantern parades. Don’t miss the White Tower for stunning views!

Dvůr Králové nad Labem

Despite what the name suggests, historians mention that queens seldom resided in Dvůr Králové. However, the town plays a vital role in the narrative of the biggest Czech literary mystery involving ancient manuscripts. A unique bonus is the nearby Safari Park—just a short walk from the City of Queens to see giraffes and lions!

Mělník

This town is famous for its legend that Princess Ludmila resided here and provided wine to the royal court. Even today, Mělník is renowned for its vineyards and exquisite vintages. Events like music festivals, historical parades, and open cellar tours attract many visitors to celebrate the rich wine culture here, which was enjoyed even by rulers. Major highlights include extensive cellar tunnels beneath Mělník Castle and a chilling yet fascinating ossuary beneath the Church of St. Peter and Paul. It’s a blend of gothic romance and eerie history!

Vysoké Mýto

Established by King Přemysl Otakar II, Vysoké Mýto has preserved its planned layout and boasts the largest square in the Czech Republic. Today, visitors come not just for the queens but for impressive technical attractions, including a museum dedicated to Czech coachbuilding. Every June, the town hosts the Sodomkovo Vysoké Mýto festival celebrating Czech design and elegance—something any queen would approve of!

Polička

This town may appear peaceful from the outside, but surprises await inside. Polička is known for its monumental city walls (most of which remain intact) and is also the birthplace of composer Bohuslav Martinů. Even though he didn’t wear a royal crown, he was born in the church’s tower where his father worked as a guard; climbing up gives insight into the views experienced by this musical genius in his childhood. Plus, Polička hosts a vibrant town festival brimming with historical parades, period markets, and concerts.

Chrudim

Once a royal town, Chrudim is now celebrated for its puppetry culture. The queen who had the most influence here was Eliška Pomořanská, the fourth wife of Charles IV. During the summer, visitors flock to the popular Puppetry Festival in Chrudim—a spectacle that the queen would likely enjoy. The Museum of Baroque Statues is a magical venue filled with ancient art, another draw for visitors!

Jaroměř

Each town not only supplied taxes but also sent various unique gifts to the royal kitchens, depending on local specialties. For Jaroměř, salmon from the Elbe and Upa rivers was highly prized. It may sound unusual, but salmon was a treasured item for queens. While you might not find salmon there today, the town’s rivers still offer a sense of its spirit, perhaps best experienced on a summer riverboat tour. Be sure not to miss the historic Josefov Fortress!

Nový Bydžov

Crayfish sourced from nearby rivers were considered a delicacy at royal banquets. Local legends claim that crayfish from Bydžov could even “whistle” before being cooked in butter!

Trutnov

While Dvůr Králové nad Labem was known for providing the royal court with minnows and small fish, Hradec Králové served pheasants, and Chrudim produced wheat, Mělník offered wine, Polička produced oats, and Vysoké Mýto contributed trout. Trutnov, however, shone as a textile powerhouse known for linen. Today, the Museum of the Podkrkonoší Region and historical markets celebrate this linen heritage. Don’t miss the lively TrutnOFF Open Air Festival, often dubbed today’s wildest “royal garden party.”

Where to visit to connect with the queens today?

Each of the eternal cities linked to Bohemian queens and empresses offers unique experiences today. Some places provide a glimpse into a historic core reminiscent of the Middle Ages, while others invite you to sip wine on castle terraces or explore underground tunnels. At Kudy z Boredom, we’re excited to assist you in planning your visit—whether your interest lies in Eliska, Gothic architecture, or freshly baked treats from local bakeries.
But it’s still true that these dowry towns are more than just relics from old documents. They are places where women’s power was not merely symbolic but firmly established in city laws, marketplaces, and streets. Queens may not have had the same influence as their male counterparts, but these dowry cities empowered them to be more than just portraits in the throne room.