Strakonice trip planner

Strakonice is a town in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic.GeographyThe town is located at the confluence of the Volyňka and Otava rivers. The municipal area comprises the districts of Dražejov, Hájská, Modlešovice, Přední Ptákovice, Strakonice proper (I and II), Střela, and Virt. Estimated population: 22,922 (2014).Close to the town is natural monument Bažantnice u Pracejovic.HistoryThe settlement of this region took place in the second half of 12th century. A moated castle on the Otava River was built by the noble House of Strakonice at the beginning of the 13th century. In 1243 they donated a part of the castle to the knights hospitaller of the Order of Saint John. In 1367 Strakonice obtained city rights.From the beginning of the 15th century the Knights Hospitaller owned the whole castle as well as the surrounding manor. In 1420 the Hussite commander Jan Žižka occupied Strakonice, but failed to capture the fortress. Strakonice Castle experienced an extensive reconstruction to a representation residence of the Grand Priors of the Order in the 16th century, the later modifications were minor only.Nowadays a part of the castle serves as a museum of the region of Strakonice.TodaySince the 19th century Strakonice was a main production site for fez hats and it also became an industrial center known for its motorbikes and hand guns.