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Protivín began to develop around 1260 as a fortified settlement near a ford across the river Blanice. The first mentioning in a document dates from 1282. The name is derived from the name of its original owner, Protiva. During the 16th century a system of ponds was created north-east of Protivín. During the 19th century, Protivín slowly grew into a town, but the closure of a sugar factory caused a massive wave of emigration especially to the United States (one settlement in Iowa, founded in 1872, was named Protivin). Protivín received the official status of a town in 1899.

The castle [bottom picture, background] was first mentioned in 1282. The Gothic castle of the 14th century was later remodelled in Renaissance and Baroque style.