Žamberk combines city history and craftsmanship with biography, views and the history of technology. Its attractions offer a range of experiences: the town museum’s permanent exhibition, the home of Prokop Diviš, Tyršova Observation Tower, the Jewish cemetery and the Museum of Old Machines bring cultural and technological themes to life. At the same time, Žamberk is a starting point for hiking and cycling trips to natural sites and attractions.
City history and exhibits at the museum
The Městské muzeum Žamberk presents the history of Žamberk, notable local residents and personalities, and the development of folk and artistic crafts in the Žamberk area in a permanent exhibition. Its exhibits include the Neo-Gothic Erxlében pharmacy, the mechanical Jedlička Nativity scene and a puppet theatre. Alongside the city’s history, the exhibition also focuses on specific objects and different forms of craftsmanship.
Prokop Diviš and his life
The Domek Prokopa Diviše is in Žamberk, birthplace of Prokop Diviš, the inventor of the lightning conductor. The exhibition in the house traces his education and career as a Premonstratensian priest and scientist. When planning your visit, note that the exhibition can only be visited with a guide and lasts about 20 minutes. Check the current visiting arrangements in advance.
Architecture and views from Tyršova Observation Tower
Tyršova Observation Tower was built to a design by architect Theodor Petřík in the form of a Hussite watchtower and was ceremonially opened on 28 October 1932. The observation tower is 20 metres high and has two viewing platforms. From the platform, you can see the Orlické Mountains, Buková hora, Suchý vrch and Litický Chlum. Looking west, you can see Litický Chlum; in favourable conditions, the Krkonoše Mountains are also visible.
Jewish cemetery and access
The Jewish cemetery of the community in Žamberk was probably established in the second half of the 17th century. The oldest surviving gravestone dates from 1731. Following extensive restoration between 1993 and 1995, the cemetery is now freely accessible. The keys are held at the Městské muzeum Žamberk; museum staff can provide visitors with access to both the cemetery and the exhibition about the Jewish community. Arrange access with the museum before your visit.
The history of technology and tours
An area originally used for industry has been gradually transformed into a technical museum and cultural centre since 2010. The Muzeum starých strojů a technologií presents historic technology from around the turn of the 20th century: working steam engines, automobile and motorcycle collections, and exhibitions about various industries of the period and textile production. The museum also includes a fully operational historic transmission workshop and a narrow-gauge factory railway. Before your visit, find out which technical attractions are currently in operation.
Hiking and cycling to natural sites and attractions offer a different travel experience from the collections, architecture and history of technology.
Discover more destinations: Horní Morava, Dolní Morava, Verměřovice, Trpík, Zářecká Lhota, Sruby, Brandýs Nad Orlicí, Choceň
For the broader travel overview: Ústí nad Orlicí District.
