Czech Republic Guide
South Moravia
Špilberk kasematy
Opening time: Tues– Sun: May– Sept 9am–6pm; Oct– April 9am–5pm
Price: 60Kč
Underneath Špilberk's eastern gate lurks the entrance to the atmospheric kasematy (dungeons). Most chilling is the reconstruction of the so-called "dark cells" in the north wing, installed by the great reforming Emperor Josef II, who first turned the barracks into a prison. In these, prisoners were chained by the neck and hands in complete darkness and given only bread and water – a practice eventually stopped by Josef II's successor, Leopold II. Silvio Pellico and his contemporaries were actually incarcerated in the upper storey of the fortress, in – as it were – the best cells. Make sure you pick up a leaflet with a plan, since the place is a veritable labyrinth. For the best view over Brno, head for the rozhledna (May– Sept Tues– Sun 9am–6pm; April & Oct Sat & Sun 9am–5pm; 30Kč), the fortress's observation tower.