What the Cross Is
Pardubice lies in eastern Bohemia, where the Elbe and Chrudimka rivers meet. The city is known for its history, culture, and sporting traditions. “The Cross” has two meanings here: the symbolic crossroads at the heart of the historic center, and Taxis Ditch, the famous obstacle on the Velká Pardubická steeplechase course.
History and Cultural Significance
Pardubice’s history goes back at least to 1295, when its earliest recorded mention referred to the Church of Saint Bartholomew. The settlement was established by the Canons Regular of the Penitence of the Blessed Martyrs, a monastic order with Polish roots. The city’s name likely comes from the Polish personal name Porydęb, reputedly the leader of the monks (Wikipedia: Pardubice). By the early 14th century, Pardubice had grown from its monastic origins into a small town beside a ford on the Elbe, supporting trade and early growth (work.xhtml-css.cz).
The Lords of Pardubice acquired the town in the 14th century. It was officially recognized as a city by 1340. Arnošt of Pardubice, a member of the family, later became the first Archbishop of Prague (Wikipedia: Pardubice). The Lords began building a fortified manor, the precursor to today’s castle.
In 1491, Vilém II of Pernštejn purchased Pardubice. Under the Pernštejns, the medieval castle became a Renaissance palace protected by fortifications, and a new Renaissance square was created at the city’s heart. The resulting prosperity gave rise to the saying “it glitters like Pardubice” (pardubice.eu).
The historic center’s “Cross” was a meeting point for trade routes and a symbolic center of civic life (Britannica: Pardubice). Its area hosted markets, festivals, and gatherings. The Green Gate (Zelená brána), built in 1507 and adorned with a relief by Mikoláš Aleš, remains a symbol of Pardubice’s noble legacy (Wikipedia: Pardubice).
The Prague–Olomouc railway was completed in 1845, helping Pardubice develop into an industrial hub. The city became known for food, engineering, and chemical industries. In the early 20th century, Jan Kašpar made aviation history here (Wikipedia: Pardubice).
The first Velká Pardubická steeplechase was held in 1874. Inspired by England’s Grand National, it developed a distinct Czech character and grew from 19th-century aristocratic hunting traditions. The race is more than a sporting event: it is also a festival featuring folk music, regional gastronomy, and family traditions. Religious blessings for riders and horses, community participation, and the event’s international standing contribute to its cultural significance (Venatour).
The Cross is woven into Pardubice’s identity: clearing it is a symbol of equestrian courage, and it features in Czech idioms. The obstacle draws tens of thousands of spectators during the annual race, reflecting Pardubice’s role as a Czech and European equestrian center (east-bohemia.info). The 6,900-meter course has 31 obstacles and attracts over 30,000 spectators annually (Venatour).
Dramatic race stories include 1909, when no horses finished, and 1920, when the sole finisher was disqualified (visitczechia.com).
What to See
The Historic Center
The Green Gate (Zelená brána) is a Renaissance gate and tower and an emblem of Pardubice (Wikipedia: Pardubice). Its tower offers panoramic city views. Nearby, Pardubice Castle developed from a medieval fortress into a Renaissance palace and now houses museums (Wikipedia: Pardubice). The East Bohemian Museum, located within the castle, features regional art and history. Renaissance and Baroque facades on the main square show the historic wealth of the city’s patrician houses (Britannica: Pardubice).
Since 1964, the historic center, including the area around the Cross, has been protected as an urban monument reservation (Wikipedia: Pardubice). This status protects its Renaissance square, castle, and distinctive architecture; Pardubice has also been described as a model of sustainable cultural tourism (tourismnotes.com).
Taxis Ditch
The Cross, locally known as Taxis Ditch (Taxisův příkop), is the most famous obstacle on the Velká Pardubická course at Pardubice Racecourse, Pražská 607, 530 02 Pardubice. It lies roughly at the midpoint of the 6.9 km course (zavodistepardubice.cz).
The obstacle consists of a hedge about 1.5 meters high, immediately followed by a deep ditch. The ditch was originally up to 2 meters wide and 1 meter deep; it has been modified for safety and is now slightly reduced. Horses must clear the hedge without seeing the ditch, demanding exceptional skill from both horse and rider. Despite safety updates, it remains the course’s most daunting challenge (wikipedia.org).
Automatic Mills and the Chrudimka
The Automatic Mills complex, originally a 20th-century gristmill and silo, has been repurposed as a cultural center on the Chrudimka River. It houses the Gočár Gallery, the Gallery of Contemporary Art (GAMPA), creative workshops, and event spaces (The Plan: Automatic Mills). The riverbanks nearby offer scenic walks and photography spots.
Practical Visiting Information
Historical Sites
Most historical sites, including Pardubice Castle and the Green Gate, are listed as open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though seasonal adjustments are possible. Entrance fees usually range from 50 to 150 CZK, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups; combined tickets may be available. Tickets can be bought on-site or online through official tourism websites.
Key sites are described as wheelchair accessible, though some older buildings may have limited access. Guided tours can accommodate special needs with advance notice. Book walking tours in advance, especially during busy periods.
Pardubice is about 90 km east of Prague and can be reached by train or car. The historic center is best explored on foot (Wikipedia: Pardubice).
Racecourse and Race
The racecourse is open year-round, generally during daylight hours outside race days. Guided tours are offered throughout the year, in multiple languages, including English and Czech; advance booking is recommended (zavodistepardubice.cz; Visit Czechia). During the Velká Pardubická, access to Taxis Ditch is managed for safety (euro-equus.eu).
The race is described as taking place over several days in early October, with main events on the final weekend. One schedule description says the event is usually held on the first Sunday in October; another identifies the race day as the second Sunday in October. Gates are reported to open around 8:00 AM, with races starting mid-morning; another race-day guide says the main event is typically at 16:00.
Tickets are available online, at the racecourse, or from local offices. Options include general admission, reserved seating, and VIP packages; prices vary by area and viewing location. Premium spots near Taxis Ditch are in high demand, and early booking is advised (racingbreaks.com; Venatour). Children under five and some disability pass holders are admitted free (Rove.me).
The racecourse is accessible and has dedicated facilities for disabled visitors. It is also described as having paved paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms, though terrain near Taxis Ditch can be uneven. Contact the racecourse about specific access needs (viewfromprague.com).
Direct trains connect Prague and Pardubice in about one hour. Local buses, taxis, and shuttles run from the city center, and the racecourse can also be reached on foot or by public transport (zavodistepardubice.cz). Buses and trolleybuses serve the city (HikersBay).
Food stalls, restrooms, and first aid stations are available at the racecourse.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early on race day for a good viewing spot; the Taxis Ditch and main grandstands are among the recommended places to watch. One guide suggests arriving before noon for prime spots. After the race, visitors can often walk parts of the course (racingbreaks.com).
- There is no formal dress code at the racecourse. Smart-casual, practical attire is suggested for October weather, particularly in premium areas. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and a rain jacket may be useful.
- May, June, September, and October are described as offering mild weather and festivals (Best Time To). Spring through early autumn is also suggested, especially for events such as the Velká Pardubická.
- Food to try includes Czech classics such as klobása, goulash, and Pardubice gingerbread.
- Czech is the official language, but English is widely spoken at tourist venues (Best Time To).
- Around 10% is customary for restaurant tips.
- Pardubice is described as safe; travel insurance is recommended for medical needs.
- Book accommodation in advance for events. Options range from boutique hotels to guesthouses (HikersBay).
- Be considerate of other visitors when taking photographs. Respect racecourse grounds and historic sites, and participate in conservation efforts if possible (Travel Pander).
- The Tourist Information Center is in the city center. The emergency number is 112, and regulated taxi services are widely available.
Nearby Places
- Velká Pardubická Racecourse Visit during the annual steeplechase or outside race days.
- Chrudimka Riverbanks Scenic walks and photography, especially by the Automatic Mills.
- Elbe River Promenade
- Local markets and parks (HikersBay)
- Pardubice Castle and museums
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visiting hours for Pardubice’s historical sites?
Most are listed as open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; seasonal variations are possible.
How can I buy tickets?
Historical-site tickets can be bought on-site or online through official tourism websites; combined tickets may be available. Race tickets are available online, at the racecourse, or at ticket offices in Pardubice. Early booking is advised, particularly for premium spots.
When can I visit Taxis Ditch?
The racecourse is open year-round, with guided tours available outside race days. The October race offers the most event-day atmosphere.
When is the Velká Pardubická?
It is held annually in October. One schedule description says it is usually the first Sunday in October, while another identifies the race day as the second Sunday in October.
Where are the best places to watch the race?
Taxis Ditch and the main grandstands are suggested viewing spots. Arrive early for the best views.
Is the Cross area accessible?
Most historical locations are described as wheelchair accessible, but older buildings may have limited access. The racecourse has dedicated facilities, paved paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms; terrain near Taxis Ditch can be uneven. Contact the racecourse about specific needs.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Racecourse tours are offered year-round in multiple languages, including English and Czech. Advance booking is recommended.
Can I take photographs?
Yes, but be considerate of other visitors.
Are there cultural events during the race?
Yes. The event includes music, performances, folk music, regional food, and food festivals.
