Jelení zahrada

Jelení zahrada (Deer Garden) is a seven-hectare park stretching along the northern foot of the castle hill in Český Krumlov, in the floodplain of the Polečnice stream. Its name, recorded since the 18th century, points to the site's original purpose as an enclosed reserve for breeding large game – earlier German records even called it "Thier Garten". Today it is a quiet green pocket right behind the castle walls, popular with visitors looking for a break from the crowds around the monument, and just as much a part of everyday life for locals.

How did this place change over the centuries?

The land belonged to the Lords of Krumlov from the 13th century, then passed to the Rožmberk family, and in 1600 – when Petr Vok sold the Český Krumlov estate to Emperor Rudolf II – it became property of the imperial chamber. Earlier, between 1593 and 1600, Petr Vok had already had an island garden, a game enclosure, a pheasantry, a gemstone-grinding mill and a sawmill for exotic timber built here. In 1622 Emperor Ferdinand II granted the estate to Jan Oldřich of Eggenberg, and from 1719 until the nationalization of 1947 it remained in the hands of the Schwarzenberg family.

What did the Schwarzenbergs add to the garden?

A turning point came in 1800, when the Schwarzenbergs founded an agricultural institute in Český Krumlov. An experimental (botanical) garden was established within Jelení zahrada for the practical training of students – on the spot now occupied by a car park. Over time the park shifted away from its role as a representative hunting and court garden toward a more utilitarian, educational function.

What traces of the past can still be found here?

Despite many transformations, several historical elements have survived: the former seed-husking building, a stretch of the old enclosure wall, stone pillars of a former bridge, and a spring known as "Lvíček". These are easy to miss on a quick walk through, but they explain why what looks like an ordinary park carries such a layered history.

What is Jelení zahrada used for today?

The area is now a publicly accessible stretch of urban greenery that also includes an allotment garden colony and an extensive car park for both cars and coaches – one of the main places where visitors leave their vehicles before walking into the historic town centre. In the central part of the park stands the Jelenka restaurant, together with public restrooms, making the spot a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

What has changed here in recent years?

The city has invested in revitalizing the park: a walking trail was laid out, benches and waste bins were installed, public lighting was added, and a pétanque court was built on the right bank of the stream. Tree maintenance work has also taken place – old, damaged trees were removed, 48 others were treated, and more than 2,050 new trees were planted, securing the park's greenery for decades to come.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Jelení zahrada located? The park lies directly at the northern foot of the castle hill in Český Krumlov, in the Polečnice stream floodplain, between the castle slopes and Chvalšinská street.

Where does the name "Jelení zahrada" come from? The name refers to the site's original function as an enclosed game reserve where large game, including deer, was bred; the name has been documented in sources since the 18th century.

Is parking available at the park? Yes, there is a large public car park for both private cars and coaches, popular with people visiting the castle and the historic town centre.

Is there somewhere to eat in the park? Yes, the Jelenka restaurant operates in the central part of Jelení zahrada, with public restrooms nearby.

What historical monuments have survived in the park? Surviving elements include the former seed-husking building, a section of the historic enclosure wall, stone pillars from an old bridge, and the "Lvíček" spring.