Kolín

Wander through the romantic corners of cobbled streets, greet the fairy-tale bears, discover new places of culture and relaxation. This is what a day spent in Kolín can look like. 

Thanks to its lively atmosphere and rich history, it is rightfully a pearl decorating the banks of the Elbe River. The first of the city’s landmarks that easily grabs the attention of visitors is the recently renovated Bartolomějské návrší (Bartholomew’s Hill) with the Gothic church of St. Bartholomew. Also worth visiting in the area are the ossuary with its rich ornamental decoration and the former parish school with an interactive exhibition; don’t miss the view from the historic bell tower. The gardens in the green outer wards provide visitors with a unique relaxation space in the heart of the city.

• Interesting fact: The top floor of the Kolín water tower gives you a glimpse of the city and its wider surroundings. The water tower was built at the beginning of the last century during the reconstruction and expansion of the city’s water supply system in the western part of the city. The leading technical celebrities of its time participated in the construction of the 45-metre-high domed building. Now, in addition to the beautiful view, you will have access to the former water reservoir. The unconventional environment often hosts cultural events such as exhibitions and artistic interventions. 

The interesting face of the city with its many Baroque and Gothic monuments is also completed by its functionalist architecture. For almost a century, the building of the former Municipal Savings Bank, which today houses the Kolín Municipal Office, has adorned Karlovo náměstí square. The building was designed by architect Jan Kotěra and features simple and clean lines. Another modern architectural achievement is the Baťa department store and the Municipal Community House on the adjacent Zámecká Street.

• Tip for you: All children will enjoy a trip to Kolín. If you take a pleasant walk from the centre towards Kmochův ostrov, you will pass several playgrounds or a disc golf park on the way. A footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists will take you to the Borky forest park, which is guarded by the wooden bears from the fairy tale “They Met near Kolín”. You can continue on a 4.5 km long nature trail through the beauty of the forest landscape along the Elbe River. You can also have a snack at the Bistro u Stapu, where the little ones can have fun on children’s attractions. 

The Jewish community, which has been involved in the development of the city since the Middle Ages, left an indelible mark on the royal city. This is evidenced by the former Jewish quarter, one of the most valuable monuments of its kind in Bohemia. It is not for nothing that the area is nicknamed Jerusalem on the Elbe. You can admire the synagogue from 1422, where concerts, occasional prayers or memorial services to honour the memory of the victims of Holocaust are still held. The Jewish ghetto also houses a former Jewish school and two cemeteries.

What’s next?

Anyone who has been inspired to explore by their stop in Kolín can set off on their next adventure. Did you know that the city is an important railway junction? How about planning a trip by train? Those who direct their next steps downstream to Poděbrady for spa relaxation will not regret it, and the gems of historical Kutná Hora are also a great choice. Romantic souls will be enchanted by the natural beauty of the Veltrubský luh or walks in the gardens of the Empire-style Kačina Château.