Vranov nad Dyjí, Czech Republic

Yesterday, Nat, Krasimir and I headed out to explore Vranov nad Dyjí.

The town was first mentioned in 1100.

Vranov, with its 888 residents, is on the Dyje River in South Moravia about 3 km from the Austrian border.

The town's plague column was built in 1713.  It commemorates the 81 residents who died from the Black Plague in 1680.

Vranov's parish church was built in the early 13th century.

The Baroque chateau overlooking the town is absolutely stunning.  After a devastating fire in 1665, the chateau was remodeled by the counts of Althann.



The property changed hands a few more times until the start of WWII.  Today it is a Czech national cultural heritage site.



The most impressive part of the chateau, aside from its location, is the Hall of Ancestors of the Althann family.  The oval hall and its Baroque frescoes are beautiful.


The chateau comes complete with a Gothic watchtower and the Holy Trinity Chapel.  Below the chapel is the crypt of the Althann family.


This was a nice little day trip.  It's really neat to just head out and explore some of the these random Czech towns.  You never know what you'll find.