What the University and White Tower are
In Hradec Králové, Eastern Bohemia, the University of Hradec Králové (UHK) is a public university with four faculties: Education, Informatics and Management, Philosophical, and Science. Its campus combines modern and historical design, award-winning architecture, and green spaces. The main campus, Na Soutoku, lies near the historic city center and the confluence of the Elbe and Orlice rivers (Edarabia).
The White Tower (Bílá věž), in Masaryk Square, is a Renaissance landmark known for its white façade, the Augustine Bell, and panoramic city views. It is easily reached from the university campus and other central points.
History
UHK’s roots date to 1775, when teacher training began in the region. The university was formally established as the Institute of Education in 1959 and became a comprehensive public university by 2000. It reflects the educational and political transformations of the Czech Republic and serves as a center for research, innovation, and cultural engagement.
The White Tower was built between 1574 and 1580 as a bell tower and watchtower. It has witnessed centuries of change, including the Hussite Wars and the Austro-Prussian War, and remains a symbol of Hradec Králové’s Renaissance heritage.
What to see
University campus
The Na Soutoku campus includes the Common Education Facility, recipient of the “Building of the Year” award in 1998, as well as the modern Faculty of Informatics and Management and Faculty of Science buildings. Landscaped green areas offer space for walks and photography.
The university also has modern classrooms, lecture halls, specialized laboratories, a library with academic materials and spaces for individual study and group collaboration, and an art gallery featuring local and international artists. The nearby Gaudeamus Publishing House and textbook shop provide additional resources (Edarabia). Cafés, outdoor spaces, and student organizations contribute to campus life.
UHK hosts cultural and academic activities, including lectures, art exhibitions, student performances, international conferences, and the Summer School of Mathematical Physics (Summer Schools in Europe). Its symbols include a Rector’s Sceptre shaped like a linden leaf and a crowned Czech lion emblem, reflecting its connection to Czech national heritage and Hradec Králové.
A new Charles University campus, uniting the Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Pharmacy, is set to open in the 2026/2027 academic year (Charles University).
White Tower
The White Tower is one of Hradec Králové’s most prominent landmarks. Its Augustine Bell is one of the largest bells in the Czech Republic, and the tower’s observation platform offers panoramic views of the city.
Practical visiting information
University campus
The campus is open to visitors Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Guided tours are available by appointment for groups and can cover the university’s history, architecture, and academic programs. Contact visitor services to arrange a tour; up-to-date tour information and details of special exhibitions are available on the university’s website.
General campus access does not require an entrance fee, though tickets may be required for certain events or exhibitions. Many campus areas are accessible during regular hours.
The campus can be reached by tram, bus, or car, with parking available nearby. It is within walking distance of major bus and train stations, and is accessible on foot or by public transport from the city center. Direct trains run from Prague and take about 1 hour 40 minutes; local transport connects to the campus. Buildings and grounds are designed for accessibility, with barrier-free access and clear signage.
White Tower
Opening hours
- April to October Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- November to March Weekends and holidays, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
For seasonal updates and special closures, check the official tourism website.
Tickets
- Adults: 100 CZK
- Seniors (65+): 70 CZK
- Students with valid ID: 50 CZK
- Children under 6: free
Tickets are available at the entrance or online through the official tourism website; online purchase can help avoid queues during peak season.
The tower requires climbing narrow, steep steps. Some provisions exist for visitors with limited mobility; contact the tourism office in advance for the most accurate accessibility information. Supervision is required for children because of the steep stairs.
Accommodation, dining, and visitor facilities
Accommodation is available at the university’s Palach and Vít Nejedlý Halls of Residence, especially during summer events. Other options include university dormitories, city-center hotels and guesthouses, and the Boromeum Residence (Amazing Czechia; Dorms.com).
Dining options include university canteens, cafés, and local restaurants, which cater to different tastes and dietary needs (Edarabia).
Tips
For the White Tower, comfortable shoes are useful for the stairs. Visiting early or late in the day offers the best views and fewer crowds, and the observation platform is a place to bring a camera. Photography is allowed inside the tower, though flash and tripods may be restricted during events. A visit can be combined with a walking tour of Old Town and time at local cafés.
UHK’s event calendar is available online for visitors planning around lectures, exhibitions, performances, and other cultural or academic activities. Many university events are open to the public.
Nearby places
Near the university and White Tower are the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, the Museum of Eastern Bohemia (also referred to as the East Bohemian Museum), and Hradec Králové’s historic city center, with baroque houses, markets, and fountains. The area also has cafés, restaurants, and parks.
For more historical sites, see the Guide to Hradec Králové Historical Attractions and the Hradec Králové Monuments Collection.
Frequently asked questions
Is the University of Hradec Králové open for public tours?
Yes. Guided tours are available by appointment, and many campus areas are accessible during regular hours.
What are the UHK campus visiting hours?
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Are tickets required to visit the university campus?
There is no entrance fee for general campus access. Certain events or exhibitions may require tickets.
Can visitors attend university events?
Many cultural and academic events are open to the public. Check the university website for schedules.
How can I reach the university campus?
It is within walking distance of the city center and major bus and train stations, and can also be reached by local public transport. Direct trains from Prague take about 1 hour 40 minutes, with local transport connections to campus.
Is the university campus accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The buildings and grounds are designed for accessibility, with barrier-free access and clear signage.
Can I buy White Tower tickets online?
Yes. Tickets can be bought through the official tourism website or at the entrance.
Are guided tours available at the White Tower?
Yes. They can be arranged through the city’s tourism office.
Is the White Tower suitable for children?
Yes, but supervision is required because of the steep stairs.
Is photography allowed inside the White Tower?
Yes, though flash and tripods may be restricted during events.
For visitor information, consult the University of Hradec Králové website and the Hradec Králové tourist portal.
