Jihlava’s underground

Description

Beneath the bustling streets of Jihlava lies an intricate network of medieval underground passages that stretch for kilometers – a testament to the city’s rich history and engineering prowess. Built in the 13th century, these mysterious tunnels served multiple purposes, from food storage to escape routes during times of siege. Today, they rank among the largest and most fascinating underground systems in the Czech Republic.

Key Features

• Multi-level tunnel system spanning nearly 25 kilometers
• Phosphorescent stones embedded in the walls that create an ethereal glow
• Historical chambers showcasing medieval architecture and craftsmanship
• Interactive exhibits detailing the tunnels’ construction and various uses throughout history
• Cold War-era civil defense shelter, complete with original equipment
• Unique geological formations and crystalline structures
• Archaeological finds displayed throughout the route
• Temperature remains a constant 8-10°C year-round
• Luminescent corridor demonstrating historical mining techniques
• Original medieval well preserved in its entirety

Best Time to Visit

The underground maintains the same cool temperature throughout the year, making it an ideal destination in any season. But I’d say summer is particularly perfect – you can escape the heat above ground and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere below. During peak tourist season (July-August), I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid larger groups. Winter visits have their own charm, as the smaller crowds allow for a more intimate exploration experience.

How to Get There

The underground system is easily accessible from Jihlava’s main square. From Prague, catch a direct bus or train to Jihlava – the journey takes about 2 hours. Once in town, everything’s walkable. But here’s a pro tip: book your tour in advance, especially during summer months. Sometimes they fill up fast, and trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on this unique experience.

Tips for Visiting

Pack a light sweater – even in summer, it gets chilly down there. I learned this the hard way during my first visit! Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes because some passages can be a bit slippery. Photography is allowed, but you’ll want a camera that handles low-light conditions well.

The basic tour takes about an hour, but I’d recommend the extended tour if you’re into history or engineering – it includes the fascinating collector system. Kids under 6 aren’t allowed in certain sections, and some parts might be challenging for folks with mobility issues.

Keep some cash handy – while the entrance fee is reasonable, not all payment methods are accepted. And y’know what’s cool? If you’re lucky enough to get Martin as your guide, he tells these amazing stories about the medieval merchants who used these tunnels.

Don’t rush through – take time to absorb the atmosphere and imagine what life was like centuries ago when these passages were actively used. The acoustics down there are pretty incredible too – sometimes you can hear the city life above, creating this surreal connection between past and present.

The tour includes some narrow passages, so if you’re claustrophobic, you might wanna stick to the wider main corridors. Also, bring a water bottle – the air can get pretty dry down there. And hey, don’t forget to check out the glowing stones – they’re not just pretty, they tell an fascinating story about medieval mining techniques.

Location

Places to Stay Near Jihlava's underground

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