Southern Moravia is an especially attractive part of the Czech Republic to
visit in the summer and autumn months, full of gorgeous scenery and
magnificent castles. Recently, I visited Bitov, whose history goes back to
the 11th century. Near the Czech-Austrian border, the castle got its name
from the Latin "Vetus via", meaning "old road",
signifying an historic route along the Dyje River to its confluence with
the Zeletava. Built on a dramatic promontory, the castle overlooks
deep forests and wide hills. The castle's majesty is reflected on the
shimmering