Black Tower

The Black Tower (Černá věž), standing tall in the heart of České Budějovice, is a remarkable 16th-century structure that offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history. This iconic landmark, located near the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, is a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming South Bohemian city. The tower, with its impressive height and historical significance, provides visitors with panoramic views of the city center and beyond, making it a popular tourist attraction during the open season.

The History of the Black Tower

The decision to build the Black Tower was made by the city council of České Budějovice in 1547. The tower was intended to serve multiple purposes: as a guard and watchtower, a bell tower, and a symbol of the city's wealth. Construction began in 1549, with the laying of the foundation stone in 1550. The building process faced challenges due to the unfavorable hydrological conditions of the ground, which required the soil to be reinforced with oak piles before the foundations could be laid. The construction was completed in 1577, with contributions from several local builders, including Hans Spatz, Lorenc, and Vincenc Vogarelli.

In 1573, the first bells were installed in the tower, and in 1606, the tower was equipped with a clock. Over the centuries, the Black Tower has undergone several renovations and repairs, with the most recent major restoration taking place between 1982 and 1985. In 1993, a monument to Jan Valerián Jirsík was restored at the base of the tower.

The Origin of the Name

It is commonly believed that the name Black Tower is linked to a great fire that ravaged České Budějovice in 1641, which supposedly blackened the surface of the tower's stone blocks. However, the name Black Tower only began to appear around 1890. During the 19th century, the last remnants of the tower's painted plaster fell away, and the surface of the stones turned black, likely due to air pollution from industrial development and coal burning.

The Astronomical Clock

In the 17th century, an indicator of the moon phases, known as the small astronomical clock or Mondšajn, was added below the clock face on the southern side of the tower. This device, featuring a 60-centimeter-diameter sphere with one half painted gold and the other black, rotates on its axis every 29.531 days, driven by the main clock mechanism. The astronomical clock was repaired in 1687 by coppersmith Jeremiáš Greillinger and painter Karel Bonanella, who restored its surface paint. In 1692, further repairs were necessary due to the clock's delay caused by the astronomical clock. After being out of order for many years, it was restored by Karel Hebík on April 14, 1985, and its current gold-black paint dates from this restoration.

The Structure of the Tower

The Black Tower has a square base with sides measuring 11.6 meters, and it stands 71.9 meters tall. The walls are thicker at the base (3.1 meters) and taper as they rise, being slightly under two meters thick at the level of the gallery. The interior of the tower is divided into nine floors. The ninth floor originally housed the tower keeper and his family, and at this level, there is a gallery that supports the cornice of the roof dome. The tower's construction style transitions from Gothic in the lower five floors to Renaissance in the upper floors and the dome.

The Bells of the Black Tower

The tower is home to seven bells, located on the sixth and seventh floors and in the dome. These bells vary in age and significance:

• Stříbrný: Cast in 1630 by Vojtěch Arnold, this bell has a tone of F# and features Latin and German inscriptions.
• Maria: Cast in 1684 by Paul Haag, this bell has a tone of E and bears Latin-German inscriptions.
• Umíráček: Cast in 1705 by Silvius Kreuz, this bell has a tone of A and features German inscriptions.
• Bumerin: The largest bell, weighing approximately 3.5 tons, was cast in 1723 by Silvius Kreuz. It has a tone of A and Latin inscriptions.
• Oktava: Cast in 1724 by Silvius Kreuz, this bell has a tone of A and Latin inscriptions.
• Marta: Also cast in 1723 by Silvius Kreuz, this bell has a tone of C# and Latin inscriptions.
• Budvar: Cast in 1995 by Rudolf Perner, this bell has a tone of E and features Czech-German inscriptions. It was purchased by the city of České Budějovice from the Budvar company in 2021.

Exploring the Black Tower

Visitors to the Black Tower can climb its 225 steps to reach the gallery, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of České Budějovice and its surroundings. The tower's strategic location and height make it an excellent vantage point for observing the city's historical and architectural landmarks.

As you explore the tower, you will encounter various historical artifacts and exhibits that provide insights into its construction, purpose, and the lives of the people who maintained it. The Black Tower is not only a symbol of the city's rich heritage but also a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the past.

In conclusion, the Black Tower (Černá věž) is an essential stop for anyone visiting České Budějovice. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and stunning views make it a captivating destination that offers a unique perspective on the city's past and present. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Black Tower promises an unforgettable experience.