Znojmo – Medieval ambiance & historical vineyards
Znojmo is the oldest and biggest city of the former ‘German South Moravia’. The city, which is situated on a plateau high above the river Thaya in the centre of South Moravia, was often the battlefield.
Medieval city centre
As old castle and emperor city Znojmo has a well-preserved medieval city centre. Narrow, angular streets, quiet corners and romantic spots shape the city. The rotunda St. Katharina in the site of the castle, the tower of the guildhall, which is 80 m high, originates from 1445 and is situated at the Masarykplatz place, and the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Nicholas form the city’s characteristic silhouette.
The rambling underground corridors below the historical city centre of Znojmo belong to the vastest underground labyrinths of Central Europe. The beginning of their origin dates back to the 14th century. The corridors run on four different levels and altogether have a length of about 30 km. With its carefully planned ventilation shafts, flues and wells the underground system is a popular attraction.
Historical vineyards
As smallest winegrowing area of Moravia Znojmo offers characteristic wines from historical vineyards. First records of the city’s viticulture originate from the 12th century, findings even from the time of Marc Aurel. There are less winegrowers at work in Znojmo than in other winegrowing regions, but a few well-known wine producers have settled here. The most prominent type of wine produced is the Grüner Veltliner. The Müller Thurgau, a light type of white wine, is also very popular. Sauvignon and Traminer have a good quality too.
The picturesque vineyards in Šobes and the cellar lanes in Šatov, Hnanice and Nový Šaldorf are especially worth visiting.
