Park Pod Kotnovem

Park Pod Kotnovem is a green retreat right in the historic heart of Tábor, spread out beneath the Kotnov Tower and the Bechyně Gate. It is the third-largest park in the city, covering nearly 1.5 hectares, and what sets it apart is its past: the grounds were once a cemetery, and old gravestones still line the paths as a quiet reminder of that history.

How did the park come to be?

The land now occupied by the park served as a burial ground for centuries. The original cemetery dates back to the 14th century, established at the foot of Kotnov Castle around the originally Gothic Church of St. Philip and James, which functioned as the cemetery chapel. Between 1969 and 1973 the site underwent a complete reconstruction, during which two separate, adjoining cemeteries — a Christian one and a Jewish one — were merged into a single, unified municipal park.

What is there to see in the park?

Walking through the park, visitors will notice preserved gravestones and grave slabs left over from the former cemetery, giving the place a distinctive, contemplative atmosphere. Among those once buried here was Josef Němec, husband of the celebrated Czech writer Božena Němcová. The centerpiece of the park is the Church of St. Philip and James — originally Gothic, later rebuilt in Baroque style. The chapel no longer serves its original religious purpose but today hosts concerts and other cultural events.

The park is equipped with modern recreational amenities: benches invite visitors to rest, and a children's playground makes it a popular stop for families. Thanks to its position on a slope above the Lužnice River, the park also offers pleasant views over the town and the river valley.

What is nearby?

The park borders directly onto one of Tábor's most important landmarks, Kotnov Tower. It is the sole surviving remnant of a castle founded in 1270 by King Přemysl Otakar II as part of the fortified settlement of Hradiště. The castle burned down in 1532, leaving only the imposing 25-meter tower, which has 155 steps and today serves as a lookout point open to visitors. Standing just in front of the tower is the late Gothic Bechyně Gate, which houses an exhibition of the Hussite Museum. Together, the park, the tower, and the gate form one of the most recognizable views of historic Tábor.

The park sits on Korandova Street, right in the historic center, making it an easy stop while exploring Tábor's old town.

Frequently asked questions

Is Park Pod Kotnovem really built on a former cemetery? Yes. The site had been a cemetery since the 14th century, and between 1969 and 1973 two former cemeteries — Christian and Jewish — were merged here to create the park. Preserved gravestones are still visible along the paths.

Who was Josef Němec, whose grave is in the park? Josef Němec was the husband of Božena Němcová, one of the most important Czech writers of the 19th century. His gravestone is among the better-known surviving elements of the former cemetery.

Can visitors enter the Church of St. Philip and James in the park? The chapel, originally Gothic and later rebuilt in Baroque style, now serves as a venue for concerts and cultural events — access depends on the current event schedule.

Can you climb Kotnov Tower from the park? Kotnov Tower stands right next to the park and is open to visitors as a lookout point with 155 steps; entry is usually combined with a ticket to the adjoining exhibition in the Bechyně Gate.

Is the park suitable for a walk with children? Yes, the park has a playground and benches, making it a welcoming spot to rest for both locals and tourists exploring Tábor.