Kadan (in Czech, Kadaň) is a fantastic location for anyone interested in Czech history. The small, pretty town in the northwest of Bohemia is a popular tourist spot because it has so many nice places to see.
My husband and I stopped in Kadan in December 2022 when we were returning from a wellness stay in the nearby spa town of Karlovy Vary. Kadan's central square, Mirove Namesti, was decked out for the holiday season with a coating of freshly fallen snow, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
➜ Sights in Kadan
We strolled all around the square, stopped for a delicious coffee at the cozy Es Café, and then peeked into the side streets. The following are some of the interesting spots that we came across.
Historical Town Hall
The Town Hall, with its white Gothic tower, is located right in the historical center of the town. It has served as the seat of the city government since the middle of the 14th century.
During the tourist season from May to September, you can climb the tower and see the city from a bird's-eye view.
Holy Trinity Column
The center of the square is dominated by the Holy Trinity Column, built in the Baroque style in the middle of the 18th century.
The richly decorated building's main goal was to honor the Catholic Church and faith. This was partly done to show gratitude for the end of the plague.
Mikulovicka gate
Just behind the tower of the town hall, have a look at the side street with the pedestrian crossing. It ends at the Mikulovice Gate, which was built in the 13th century and is an important part of the city's defenses. It is sometimes called the Holy Gate.
Historical houses
The square is surrounded on all sides by historic houses that have been interconnected with one another. The majority of them have been reconstructed and have nice colorful facades.
I think Kadan has come a long way since 1989, when Czechoslovakia emerged from the era of communist dominance. From a gray town, it has become a modern and proud place with a historical past that rightly attracts tourists to visit.
The narrowest alley in the Czech Republic
Kadan boasts one unique feature. The narrowest alley in the Czech Republic leads from the square through the old walls. Its Czech name is "Katova ulicka," which can be translated as Hangman's Alley.
Beware, and consider walking down the alley after a good lunch. If you're wider than 66 cm, you'll have trouble getting through the alley!
➜ More sights in Kadan
Unfortunately, we didn't have enough time to explore all of the city's interesting landmarks, which is a great pity because Kadan has a lot to offer. I would love to come back here one day and spend more time exploring the city.
Here are other interesting spots on my list to visit:
Franciscan Monastery
The Franciscan Monastery of the Fourteen Holy Helpers has been named a National Cultural Monument and is now trying to get on the UNESCO list of monuments. Inside, you will find beautiful murals and unique vaulted ceilings. The monastery is one of the most visited monuments in Kadan.
Kadan Castle
Kadan Castle has towered over the Ohře River for almost 800 years. Inside, you will find a library with a reading room, an internet café, a ceremonial hall, and the Josef Liesler Gallery. There is also a small museum dedicated to the history of the castle.
MY TIP: Visit Loket, a medieval castle nearby!
➜ Where to park
If you are a tourist arriving by car and want to explore the city's historical center and surroundings, park directly on the Mirove Namesti Square. There are quite a few parking spaces available. Keep in mind that parking is charged on weekdays and partly on Saturdays.
➜ Where is Kadan located
Kadan is a former royal town in northwest Bohemia that towers over the Ohe River. The first written mention of Kadan dates back to the 12th century. The town lies in the Chomutov district of the Ústí nad Labem region. At the moment, roughly 18,000 people call this location home.
Kadan is about an hour and a half drive from Prague, the Czech capital.
Kadan on the map of Czech Republic:
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