The Legacy of the Mill Colonnade Architecture

The history of the Mill Colonnade columns began in 1871. Architect Josef Zítek originally envisioned a grand two-story building. However, budget constraints limited the project to a single floor. Despite this, the final result is breathtaking and massive. It remains the largest colonnade in this historic spa town.

The structure features 124 Corinthian columns that support the roof. These columns are made of stone and give the space a rhythmic feel. The colonnade is 132 meters long and 13 meters wide. It was built to provide shelter for wealthy spa guests. They needed a place to walk while drinking mineral water regardless of the weather.

The city is recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for its spa heritage. The Mill Colonnade is a central part of this prestigious listing. Above the columns, you can see twelve sandstone statues. These figures represent the months of the year. They add a layer of artistic depth to the impressive stonework.

10 Historic Highlights of the Mill Colonnade

To fully experience the history of the Mill Colonnade columns, you must visit these specific spots. Each spring and nearby structure tells a part of the city's story. Use this list to plan your walking route through the spa district. Most of these locations are free to access throughout the year.

1. Name: Mill Colonnade Structure Type: sight Why go: To admire the 124 Corinthian columns and Neo-Renaissance design. Best for: Architecture enthusiasts. Where: Mlýnské nábřeží. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the Teplá River from the city center. Tip: Visit at sunrise for the best photos without crowds.
2. Name: Mill Spring Type: experience Why go: It is one of the oldest used springs in the city. Best for: Tasting traditional mineral water. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located at the northern end of the colonnade. Tip: The water is 56°C, so sip it slowly.
3. Name: Rusalka Spring Type: experience Why go: Named after the famous water nymph from Czech folklore. Best for: Fans of local culture and mythology. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Centrally located within the structure. Tip: This spring was formerly known as the New Spring.
4. Name: Prince Wenceslas Spring Type: sight Why go: It has two outlets with different temperatures and yields. Best for: Comparing mineral concentrations. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Near the orchestra pit area. Tip: Look for the high-pressure outlet near the columns.
5. Name: Libuše Spring Type: experience Why go: Named after the mythical mother of the Czech people. Best for: A quick taste of Karlovy Vary history. Where: Inside the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk toward the southern end of the hall. Tip: It is usually less crowded than the Mill Spring.
6. Name: Rock Spring Type: sight Why go: It is tucked into a scenic niche within the colonnade walls. Best for: Seeing how the springs integrate with the stone. Where: Southern end of the Mill Colonnade. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the path toward the Market Colonnade. Tip: Check the temperature gauge next to the tap.
7. Name: Market Colonnade Type: sight Why go: A beautiful Swiss-style wooden structure near the Mill Colonnade. Best for: Seeing diverse architectural styles. Where: Tržiště street. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk south from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Look for the relief depicting the legend of the city's founding.
8. Name: Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser Type: experience Why go: It is the hottest and most powerful spring in town. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: Vřídlo Hot Spring Geyser building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes south from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Take the underground tour to see the thermal pipes.
9. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: day trip Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the colonnades from above. Best for: Families and hikers. Where: Friendship Heights. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for the funicular. Getting there: Take the Diana Observation Tower funicular near the Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths for more views.
10. Name: Park Colonnade Type: sight Why go: Famous for its delicate cast-iron lace architecture. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: Dvořák Park. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes north from the Mill Colonnade. Tip: Try the Snake Spring located right next to it.

Practical Tips for Visiting Karlovy Vary

When visiting, remember that the springs are for medicinal use. Most locals recommend buying a porcelain spa cup. These cups have a special spout for sipping the mineral water. You can find them at many kiosks near the Mill Colonnade. This tradition is a key part of the local spa experience.

Public transport is efficient in the city. You can check schedules at the Dopravní podnik Karlovy Vary website. Most of the historic center is pedestrian-only. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones. The area is very safe and welcoming for international tourists.

For more information on the country, visit Visit Czechia. They offer great resources for planning a longer trip. If you arrive by train, the station is about a 20-minute walk away. You can also take a local bus to reach the colonnade area quickly. Enjoy the history of the Mill Colonnade columns during your stay!