Gingerbread

When people think of Pardubice, one word almost always comes to mind: gingerbread. This traditional honey pastry has been closely connected with the city for centuries and has become one of its most recognisable symbols.

The saying “I’ll show you what gingerbread in Pardubice really means” is well known in Czech culture. Locals are often jokingly called “gingerbread makers”, a nickname they now proudly embrace.

While walking through the historic centre, you will find shops selling beautifully decorated gingerbread on many streets. For many visitors, gingerbread is the most typical souvenir from Pardubice.

The tradition of gingerbread making in Pardubice dates back to the 16th century, but it flourished especially at the beginning of the 20th century, when several local companies specialised in producing honey gingerbread and marzipan sweets.

Pardubice gingerbread makers create everything from decorated festival hearts to elaborate gingerbread houses. You can learn more about this tradition at the Gingerbread Cottage and Gingerbread Museum near Kunětická hora Castle or during the annual Gingerbread Festival, held at Pardubice Castle.

Just below Kunětická hora Castle stands the charming Gingerbread Cottage, home to the Gingerbread Museum and several fairy-tale attractions.

Although the house looks like something from a fairy tale, it is actually a historic hunting lodge built in 1882 by Baron Richard Drasche of Wartenberg. Today it offers visitors a playful introduction to the story of Czech gingerbread.

For reservations and more information, please visit the Gingerbread Cottage website.