Black Tower
Even before you reach the city centre the Klatovy towers and spires are sure to catch your eye. The largest of all is the Black Tower, which was built in the 16th century. It was used to signal incoming danger, whether that be of fires or enemy soldiers. The Black tower gained both its colour and name due to the damaged cause by many fires. Next to the tower you will find the Jesuit Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and St. Ignatius, which provides a beautiful panorama of the city from either of its two high towers.
Klatovy catacombs
An expansive network of catacombs can be found under the church. They were used to bury brothers and figures of nobility sympathetic to the Jesuit order. A brilliant ventilation system was built to assist in naturally mummifying the deceased. The remaining 38 preserved bodies are cared for here by conservators, and visitors have the opportunity to see them in the original crypt and Jesuit secondary school.
Baroque Pharmacy
Be sure to also make time for a tour of the Baroque Pharmacy at the White Unicorn. Not only will you get to view the pharmacy’s equipment, but also an entire series of interesting, historical, pharmaceutical exhibits. In addition, you will be introduced to a number of interesting, yet sometimes horrifying, facts about how medical procedures used to be performed.
White Tower
Not only is there a Black Tower in Klatovy, there is also White Tower. It was built after a city-wide fire in the 17th century and replaced the much lower, original two-storey bell tower. You can find it located a few steps from the main city square by heading toward the park along the old city ramparts (here is also a pleasant place to sit and relax).
Should you need it, you can find the Klatovy Information Centre also located on the main city square. The Info Centre’s address is Vídeňská 66 (right on the corner of the city square and Vídeňská Street). For more information and tips on what to see in Klatovy, feel free to turn to our colleagues at the Klatovy Information Centre: +420 376 347 240; +420 376 347 250; icklatovy@mukt.cz.
