Hradec Králové, Host City of the 2025 U16 & U23 ISBHF World Championships

Steeped in History

The city began as a small Slavic settlement in the 10th century and rose to prominence in the 13th century under the rule of Queen Eliška Rejčka. During her reign, the city earned its name, Hradec Králové, which translates to “Castle of the Queen.” The town faced numerous hardships throughout the centuries. It was a key battleground during the Hussite Wars in the 15th century, suffered devastating fires, endured occupation by foreign armies during the Thirty Years’ War, and experienced near destruction during the Napoleonic Wars. Despite Hradec Králové’s storied past, the city houses several significant cultural, architectural and religious attractions to explore.

Medieval and Early Modern Landmarks

The tallest landmark in the city is the White Tower in the Great Square. Construction started on the 72-meter-tall building in 1574 and was completed six years later. The tower is open to visitors and provides views of the historic city and the surrounding green fields. Nearby is the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, built in the Gothic style of the 14th century. Queen Eliška Rejčka commissioned this architectural treasure in 1308; however, the church would not be elevated to a cathedral until 1664. These monuments reflect the significance of Hradec Králové as a city of importance in the region, not only for its royal and religious past but also for its enduring presence as a cultural and architectural landmark in Bohemia.

While the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit embodies Hradec Králové’s medieval legacy, just five minutes away, the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary showcases the city’s Baroque splendour. The church’s twin white towers became instant landmarks, designed by Italian architect Carlo Lurago and completed in 1666 for the Jesuit order. Though a devastating fire in 1760 required extensive renovations, the restoration birthed its crowning glory: a magnificent 1770 organ decorated with incredible wooden carvings and paintings.

Renowned Museum and Art Gallery

After tracing Hradec Králové’s medieval and Baroque landmarks, the East Bohemian Museum reveals the deeper story behind the buildings. This stunning building houses exhibits dedicated to the region’s checkered past, such as archaeological artifacts of the Hussite invasion and even prehistoric paleontology displays featuring bones of prehistoric mammoths and tools used by the Neanderthals. Additionally, art-loving fans can visit the Gallery of Modern Art in Hradec to experience its František Kupka collection of abstract works that changed 20th-century art. Alongside Kupka’s paintings, visitors will enjoy surrealist visions by Marie Čermínová, better known as Toyen, and rare Art Nouveau studies by Alfons Mucha.

Across the city, fans will find numerous restaurants serving Czech staples. You can find hearty svíčková, crispy vepřo-knedlo-zelo and world famous Czech pilsner. In Old Town Square, quick bites can be found at food carts dishing out grilled klobása and fresh trdelník pastries.

Fan Zone

Fans are encouraged to check out the fan zone at the CPP Arena, which has activities, competitions, and beverages. Open from June 25 to 29, the zone allows fans to get involved in the action with a shooting range, skills competitions, and ball hockey workshops and get pro tips from the coaches of the HBC Hradec Králové team. Food, Beverages and Championship merchandise can also be found here to quench your thirst and take home memorabilia of the lasting memories sure to be made at the 2025 U16 and U23 ISBHF World Championship.

Hradec Králové’s soaring gothic spires and baroque style churches have witnessed the fall of kings and queens, the infamous Hussite Wars and numerous fires. Yet through every trial and every setback, the people remain as resilient as their ancient monuments. Centuries of tradition, history, and culture spill across the streets, waiting to be discovered. Enjoy a delicious slow-cooked sausage and fluffy baked cinnamon swirl pastry before entering an art gallery with world-renowned pieces that have altered modern art. Whether you’re a food lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, this city has magic for everyone. However, one story remains to be told, the story of the 2025 ISBHF World Championships. As players descend on Hradec Králové, the city’s warm embrace will ensure that this tournament is remembered.

Below are some links to help fans gather more information about Hradec Králové

• White tower – https://www.bilavez.cz/index.php?lang=en
• Church of Assumption – https://www.hkregion.cz/dr-en/101974-church-of-the-assumption-of-the-virgin-mary-hradec-kralove.html#page=0;orderby=2|ASC
• Cathedral of the Holy Spirit – https://www.hkregion.cz/dr-en/100582-holy-spirit-cathedral.html#page=0;orderby=2|ASC
• Gallery of Modern Art- https://www.hkregion.cz/dr-en/100265-gallery-of-modern-art-in-hradec-kralove.html#page=0;orderby=2|ASC
• Museum of Eastern Bohemia – https://www.hkregion.cz/dr-en/100075-the-museum-of-eastern-bohemia-in-hradec-kralove.html#page=0;orderby=2|ASC
• Official tournament website of the 2025 ISBHF U16 & U23 WJBHC – https://hradeckr2025.com