Hradec Kralove Live Cam

History

The strategic location of Hradec Králové at the confluence of the Elbe (Labe) and Orlice rivers made it a crucial stronghold in medieval Bohemia. First mentioned in records from 1225, the town—then called “Hradec” after its castle (“hrad” means castle in Czech)—grew around a Přemyslid fortress. By the 14th century, it had become one of the major centers of trade and administration, earning the epithet “Králové” (of the queens) after being granted to Czech queens by King Charles IV. This royal patronage spurred the construction of Gothic parish churches, fortified walls, and the White Tower (Bílá věž), which still dominates Hradec Králové attractions today.