Starý a nový zámek (Jindřichovice)

The Old and New Castle of Jindřichovice is an unusual case in the Czech Republic: two neighbouring residences that together form a single historic complex. The village lies in the Kolinec municipality, Klatovy district, on the edge of the Šumava foothills — a small place with a layered building history that stretches from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.

How do you get there?

Jindřichovice sits in the western part of the country, in the Šumava region, not far from Klatovy. Driving is the most practical option — the surroundings are rural, traffic is light, and the roads wind through quiet, forested countryside typical of the Šumava foothills. Travellers relying on public transport should expect to change in Klatovy or Kolinec and cover the last stretch on foot or by local connection. It works best as part of a day exploring the region's lesser-known monuments rather than as a destination worth a long trip on its own.

What will you see?

The name "Old and New Castle" is literal: two separate buildings stand side by side in Jindřichovice, different in age and style but tied together by a shared history.

The older of the two grew out of a Gothic fortified manor first documented in writing in 1463 (the village itself is recorded from 1381). Between 1618 and 1621 that fortalice was rebuilt into a country residence — the renovation that gave the old castle the form still recognisable today.

The new castle came later, in the 18th century, built as the seat of minor local nobility. Over time it took over as the main residence, effectively replacing the older building in everyday use. The two structures stand close together, and in the 19th century they were even linked by a covered corridor — a bridge on the upper floor that let residents move between the buildings without stepping outside. That connecting passage hasn't survived, but its existence says a lot about how closely the two buildings once functioned as one household.

Today the whole complex is privately owned and operates as accommodation. That changes the nature of a visit compared with a museum-style castle: it's worth checking current access before travelling, since entry may be limited to guests staying overnight or to occasional events.

When should you visit?

Spring and summer are the best times, when the Šumava countryside is at its greenest and the longer days make it easy to combine Jindřichovice with a wider loop through the region. Autumn has its own appeal too, with golden forest colours and a quieter pace. Winter can be trickier logistically, since the area is rural and snow can complicate the drive.

Who is this for?

This is a stop for travellers interested in residential architecture and the history of Czech minor nobility, not for those chasing monumental, postcard-style castles. It suits visitors touring Šumava and the Klatovy area who want to add something less obvious to their route, as well as anyone planning to stay overnight in a historic setting — one of the few real chances to actually spend time inside a complex like this rather than just viewing it from outside.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the old and new castle in Jindřichovice? The old castle grew out of a Gothic fortified manor rebuilt into a residence between 1618 and 1621; the new castle was built in the 18th century as the seat of local nobility and eventually became the main residence.

Were the two buildings connected? Yes, in the 19th century a covered corridor on the upper floor linked them, but it hasn't survived — today they stand as two separate, closely positioned buildings.

Can you visit the complex? It's privately owned and run as accommodation, so visiting depends on current availability — check ahead before you go.

Where exactly is Jindřichovice? In the village of that name within the Kolinec municipality, Klatovy district, on the edge of the Šumava region in western Bohemia.