The most interesting attractions in Cieszyn Silesia: Poland and the Czech Republic on Both Sides of the Border

The most interesting attractions in Cieszyn Silesia: Poland and the Czech Republic on Both Sides of the Border

June 11, 2025

Teschen Silesia is a unique border region where Polish and Czech culture intermingle to create a unique mosaic of traditions, history and landscapes. Divided by the Olza River into two parts - Polish with Cieszyn and Czech with Český Těšín - it delights with a wealth of historical monuments dating back to the Middle Ages, picturesque landscapes and vibrant local culture. Recognized as a Polish Tourist Brand as of 2019, the region attracts tourists regardless of the season, offering both fascinating historical sites and the natural beauty of the Silesian Beskid. Discovering Cieszyn Silesia is a journey through centuries of turbulent history, where traces of settlement date back to Roman times, and every corner hides legends and stories passed down from generation to generation.

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Historic heart of the region -. Castle Hill and its treasures

Castle Hill in Cieszyn is undoubtedly the most important point on the map of Cieszyn Silesia, representing the heart of an ancient castle whose origins date back to the 9th century. This unique historical space offers unforgettable views of both parts of the city and is a living testimony to the turbulent history of the region. The hill is open to all visitors and, uniquely in Poland, has a public parking lot and a municipal elevator to facilitate access for those with limited mobility.

The dominant feature of the Hill is the majestic Piast Tower - a remnant of a medieval princely castle, which is one of the oldest monuments of defensive architecture in Poland. This 29-meter-high Gothic building was built in the 14th century and provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the panorama of Cieszyn, Český Těšín and the picturesque ranges of the Silesian Beskid. A climb to the top of the tower is a must for any tourist - the reward for climbing the stairs is a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.

Next to the Piast Tower is a true gem of Romanesque architecture - the rotunda of St. Nicholas, dating back to the 11th century. This small, round church with a distinctive apse is one of Poland's most valuable monuments, as evidenced by the fact that for years its image adorned a twenty-zloty banknote. The rotunda impresses with its simplicity of form and perfect proportions, being a testimony to the high level of building art at the time of the first Piasts.

Castle Cieszyn, although it has not survived to our times in its entirety, still fascinates with its history. In the 14th century it was given a new Gothic form, but the Thirty Years' War was not kind to it. Today, on the site of the former ducal castle there is a modern cultural institution called 'Castle Cieszyn', which combines tradition with modernity. It hosts exhibitions, workshops and cultural events that attract both locals and tourists. Of note is the classicist Habsburg Hunting Palace, which in the past served as the summer residence of the Archduke of Cieszyn.

Walking around Castle Hill, it is impossible not to notice the romantic park with centuries-old trees, some of which are monuments of nature. Established in the 19th century, this park offers shade and relaxation on hot days, as well as picturesque alleys ideal for romantic strolls. In autumn, the park shimmers in all shades of gold and red, creating a fairy-tale setting for photographers and nature lovers. Castle Hill is a place where history intertwines with nature, creating a space ideal for both family outings and solitary wanderings in the footsteps of the past.

Cultural treasures on both sides of the Olza River

Crossing the Friendship Bridge in Cieszyn, a symbolic link between the Polish and Czech parts of the city, one enters a fascinating cultural space where two nations share a common heritage. This bridge, crossed over the Olza River, is no ordinary engineering structure - it is a symbol of friendship between Poland and the Czech Republic, a daily meeting place for residents of both parts of the city and a gateway to discover the cultural diversity of the region. The bridge offers a picturesque view of Castle Hill and the distinctive waterfront buildings, which also makes it a popular spot for photographers.

On the Polish side, in the heart of Cieszyn, is the Museum of Cieszyn Silesia - a real treasure trove of knowledge about the region. The museum is housed in the historic building of the former Larisch palace and offers a fascinating journey through the history of Těšín Silesia from the earliest times to the present. Especially valuable are the archaeological and ethnographic collections, as well as the collection of Cieszyn art. The museum can interest not only adults, but also children, for whom special exhibitions and educational workshops have been prepared. Young explorers can learn here how the region's former inhabitants lived, and the interactive elements of the exhibitions make learning a fascinating adventure.

Crossing the border to Český Těšín, it's worth visiting the Museum of Těšín Land, which perfectly complements the knowledge gained at the Polish museum. The Czech institution focuses on presenting local history, traditions and folklore, with a special emphasis on the Czech perspective. Interesting ethnographic expositions take a closer look at daily life, costumes, crafts and customs of the region's inhabitants. Comparing the collections of the two museums makes it possible to see both similarities and differences in the interpretation of their shared history, which is a fascinating lesson on the complexity of the cultural heritage of the borderland.

Not far from the Museum of the Cieszyn Land is Adam Sikora Park, a green oasis in the Czech part of the city. This picturesque park offers the shade of old trees, charming walking alleys and resting places. It is an ideal space for relaxing after a busy day of sightseeing or for a family picnic. The park also serves as a venue for local cultural events and festivals, where you can learn more about Czech culture and cuisine.

Returning to the Polish side, it is impossible to miss Cieszyn's Market Square - the vibrant heart of the city. This medieval square, surrounded by colorful townhouses with distinctive arcades, impresses with its architecture and atmosphere. The Fountain of St. Florian stands in the center of the square, and numerous cafes and restaurants serving local specialties are scattered around. The market is the site of many cultural events, concerts and fairs that attract locals and tourists from both sides of the border. It is especially worth visiting during the annual Feast of the Three Brothers, a festival celebrating the common cultural heritage of Polish and Czech Cieszyn.

Not far from the market square is the Well of the Three Brothers - a place associated with the legend of the city's founding. According to the legend, in 810 three brothers, Leszko, Cieszko and Bolko, after a long wandering met at the spring and decided to establish a settlement, which they called Cieszyn - from the words 'I am glad'. Although the current well dates from a later period, the site is of great symbolic importance to the city's identity and is a popular spot on the tourist route. The well is surrounded by a decorative wrought iron balustrade, and is topped by a canopy with the city's coat of arms.

The charming corners and hidden treasures of Cieszyn Silesia

The Cieszyn Venice is one of the most picturesque and romantic corners of Cieszyn, which is still somewhat off the main tourist routes. This charming street located along the Młynówka canal, with its distinctive colorful houses standing right on the water, has not coincidentally become known as 'Venice'. Walking along the narrow street of Przykop, you can feel like you are in a miniature version of the famous Italian city. Těšín Venice looks particularly charming at sunset, when the last rays are reflected in the surface of the water and the old townhouses cast long shadows. It's the perfect place for a romantic stroll or a photo session. It is worth knowing that the Młynówka canal was once an important part of the city's defense system and powered numerous mills and craft workshops.

The Czechoslovak Army Square in Český Těšín is the centerpiece of the Czech part of the city. This spacious square, surrounded by representative buildings from the early 20th century, was built after the division of Těšín in 1920 and was intended as the new administrative center of the Czech part of the city. Today it is a lively place where local cultural events, fairs and festivals take place. Around the square there are numerous cafes and restaurants where one can relax and enjoy Czech culinary specialties. The architecture of the square is an interesting example of the modernist style with elements of Art Nouveau, characteristic of the interwar period.

It is worth noting that Cieszyn Silesia is a region with an extremely rich history, dating back to Roman times (5th century BC). In the 12th century Cieszyn was raised to the rank of castellany, and in the 14th century it became the capital of the independent Duchy of Cieszyn. This turbulent history has left behind numerous traces, which can be discovered while wandering around the region. One such trace is the system of fortifications from various eras scattered throughout Těšín Silesia.

When discovering Těšín Silesia, it is worth noting local craft traditions, which are still cultivated on both sides of the border. Particularly well-known are Cieszyn silverware - distinctive jewelry made using the filigree technique, Cieszyn embroidery and traditional regional costumes, which can be admired during local festivals and holidays. In the numerous craft workshops you can not only buy original souvenirs, but also observe the process of their creation and even take part in workshops.

Těšín Silesia is also a region with rich culinary traditions, combining Polish, Czech, German and Austrian influences. Local specialties such as potato pancakes in Cieszyn style, apple strudel, kołacze or miodula - a traditional honey-based liqueur - are worth tasting. Numerous restaurants and cafes on both sides of the border offer regional dishes prepared according to traditional recipes.

Comparing the attractions on the Polish and Czech sides, there are some differences. The Polish part of Těšín Silesia offers more historical monuments, especially from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, while the Czech side impresses with modernist architecture from the early 20th century. In terms of accessibility, most attractions on both sides of the border are easily accessible on foot, making the region ideal for weekend trips. Prices in the Czech part are often slightly lower, which attracts Polish tourists to the restaurants and stores there. Regardless of which side you choose, Těšín Silesia offers an unforgettable experience, combining the discovery of history with admiring the natural beauty and learning about the border region's vibrant culture.

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