Eastern Bohemia - Východní Čechy

Eastern Bohemia
| Historical Monuments | Horses | Tradition | Famous Natives | Nature | Architecture |
| Culture | Sacred Monuments | Technical Monuments | Active Relaxation |
Eastern Bohemia
“Paradise on earth it is to see.” These words from the
Czech national anthem could be applied to countless
places in Eastern Bohemia that definitely deserve
a visit. Why? It is a region where you will encounter
a myriad of beautiful sights.
In addition to its breathtaking natural scenery, it boasts a captivating
history, stunning technical monuments, as well as pleasant, hospitable,
open-hearted people who have the opportunity to live a rich cultural,
athletic, and social life. Eastern Bohemia is the birthplace of worldrenowned personalities as well as the origin of a broad spectrum of unique
works from diverse fields of human existence.
The crowning glory of the region is their horses, and not just because it
is home to one of the most famous horse races in the world: the Velká
Pardubická Steeplechase.
In Eastern Bohemia, the saying still applies: “Every Czech is a musician.”
Perhaps that too is the reason why lovers of muses affectionately foster
the musical gem that is the Smetana‘s Litomyšl International Opera
Festival.
All of these are delicacies that invite you to savour them. Just like the
renowned Pardubice gingerbread... You will simply fall in love with Eastern
Bohemia. Perhaps due to its diversity as well.
While the Elbe River region is primarily flat with a pleasant, warm climate
ideal for water sports enthusiasts and countless opportunities for trips
on foot, by bicycle, or on inline skates, the Orlické Mountains and the
Králický Sněžník region on the other hand attract hiking and winter
sports lovers.
In Eastern Bohemia you will also have the opportunity to learn about
various folk and folklore traditions, including one-of-a-kind craft
manufacturing, and uncover the mysteries of the numerous extraordinary
castles and chateaus, as well as military fortresses, or discover the magic
of its urban conservation areas and a whole range of other attractive
monuments.
What is another advantage of Eastern Bohemia? It is a region that is very
easily accessible. It lies on the main railroad corridor linking Germany,
Austria, Poland, and Slovakia, and it has an international airport. The
relatively short driving time from the Czech capital is also pleasant. From
Prague, you can arrive in the Eastern Bohemian metropolis, Pardubice,
in only an hour by train, and in just a few minutes more by car...
More information, including suggestions for interesting excursions,
events, or accommodation can be found at www.east-bohemia.info.
Monastery gardens in Litomyšl
Town ramparts bastion in Polička
Králický Sněžnik Mountain
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Pardubice Chateau
Historical Monuments
Mysterious secluded castle ruins, old castles proudly
towering over the surrounding countryside, the romantic
gardens of noble chateaus. All of these are remnants of
bygone eras that attract multitudes of visitors even in
today‘s modern times. These are places that consume you,
and before you know it, you are transported centuries back
into times long past. Simply put, they compel you to stop
for a moment and allow their unparalleled genius loci to
permeate your being...
Litomyšl Chateau
This representative Renaissance chateau with sgraffito decorations was
built from 1568 through 1582. In 1999, it was entered into the UNESCO
World Heritage List.
The chateau facade boasts over 8,000 sgraffito envelope designs, about
which it is rumoured that each one is completely unique. Other exclusive
features include the local theatre with period decorations from the
18th century, and the chateau cellars, which house an exposition of
the sculptures of Olbram Zoubek. The complex also includes the former
brewery, where renowned composer Bedřich Smetana was born in 1824.
➤ www.zamek-litomysl.cz/en
Litomyšl Chateau
Pardubice Chateau
The Renaissance chateau is located in the direct vicinity of the centre of
Pardubice. This manor is an exceptional representation of the transition
from castle to chateau. There is nothing else like it in this form and scale
in all of Central Europe. Currently, the Pardubice Chateau is home to
the Eastern Bohemian Museum and the Eastern Bohemian Gallery. The
chateau‘s permanent exhibits are certainly worth a visit, and you should
also not miss out on the unparalleled walk along the Gothic ramparts, or
a visit to the civil defence shelter, knights‘ halls, and chateau chapel.
➤ www.visitpardubice.com
Svojanov Castle
Svojanov is located in the valley of the Křetínka stream, on the border
between Bohemia and Moravia. It is an early Gothic castle, one of
the oldest in the region. The complex is accessible from March until
December, and includes a restaurant and a lodging house. It boasts
a truly unique genius loci, which is why Svojanov often hosts various
cultural and social events.
➤ http://en.ceskomoravskepomezi.info
Svojanov Castle
The Rococo chateau in Nové Hrady, often labelled the “Bohemian
Versailles,” is a pearl among historical monuments in Eastern Bohemia.
For instance, you can visit the First Czech Museum of Cycling, the Gallery
of English Hats, or the free-range red and fallow deer at the chateau farm.
You can also set off for Kunětice Mountain near Pardubice, which rises to
305 metres above sea level, and offers a breathtaking view far and wide.
Other notable monuments in the region include the chateaus in Moravská
Třebová, Choltice, and Slatiňany, or the ruins of Košumberk Castle near
Luže and Lichnice Castle nearby Třemošnice. Some of the most wellpreserved fortifications in Central Europe, on the other hand, can be seen
in Polička.
Other significant historical monuments can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info/monuments-attractions.
Moravská Třebová Chateau
Kunětická Mountain Castle
Lichnice Castle Ruins
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Velká pardubická steeplechase
Horses
Eastern Bohemia is a true paradise for horses and horse
lovers. No other region in the Czech Republic boasts such
a diverse equine tradition. After all, the horse has been
the symbol of Pardubice since the very foundation of the
city. We can blame it all on the knight, Ješek, who set off
in the 12th century to conquer the Italian city of Milan.
After one particular successful campaign, a grate fell on
top of his horse, severing the horse in half, right behind
the saddle. Ješek carried the front end of the horse on his
shoulders back to camp, and for this deed he was conferred
a coat of arms, which Pardubice still uses to this day.
Kladruby nad Labem National Stud Farm
Kladruby nad Labem National Stud Farm
Old-Kladruber horse breeding is renowned not only at the oldest stud farm
in the world in Kladruby nad Labem, founded back in the 16th century by
Emperor Rudolph II, but also at the nearby stud farm in Slatiňany. This
unique carriage horse breed is one of the oldest in the world. For this reason,
it has also become a “national cultural monument“. Today, Old-Kladruber
horses reap success in team driving competitions, but can also be seen in
classical dressage events, or as the gems of several European royal courts.
➤ www.nhkladruby.cz/national-stud
Pardubice Racetrack
The race track at the location of today‘s famous Velká Pardubická Steeplechase was established in 1856. The most famous jump of today‘s Pardubice
racetrack is one of the most difficult jumps in the world – the Taxis Ditch.
Other difficult jumps include the Irish Bench, Popovice Jump, Snakes‘ Ditch,
and Havel‘s Jump. The Pardubice racetrack also hosts a wide variety of other
racing or cultural and social events.
➤ www.pardubice-racecourse.cz/english
Velká Pardubická Steeplechase
The Velká Pardubická Steeplechase is one of the oldest and most challenging
races in Europe. The course is 6,900 metres long, and the horses must
complete 31 jumps. The first race took place on 5 November 1874, with 14
horses and riders. The Velká Pardubická has been held every year since.
Its tradition was interrupted only during wartime years, twice due to
weather, and once because of the events of 1968. The first winner was the
thoroughbred stallion Fantome with English jockey, George Sayers.
➤ www.pardubice-racecourse.cz/english
Equestrian trails
If you would like to follow in the tracks of the horses‘ hoof prints, then
you absolutely must make your way to Slatiňany. There are two equine
museums located near the local stud farm. Probably the largest equine
exposition in Europe is housed in the Slatiňany Chateau. It documents the
development of the horse from its origins until the present day. You can
learn more about the Old-Kladruber breed in the interactive museum at
the Slatiňany Švýcárna lodge.
The fact that Eastern Bohemia is an equine promised land is evidenced by
its dense network of marked equestrian trails. Currently, there are over
600 kilometres of trails.
More interesting equine-related information can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info/horse-riding.
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Tradition
Follow in the footsteps of the traditions of one of the most
beautiful regions of the Czech Republic! Eastern Bohemia
offers countless attractions not only for history buffs, but
for lovers of cultural events, beautiful natural sceneries,
and unique technical monuments as well. You can learn
about the rich craft and industrial traditions at a wide
range of wonderful locations.
The region harbours a rightful pride in the many superb
traditional products and folk craftsmen who foster the
crowning glory of this magical region with love and pride.
Open-Air Museum Vysočina
A one-of-a-kind museum in the natural landscape that invokes the
atmosphere of eras long past, which you may know from the art of Josef
Lada. This is the Open-Air Museum Vysočina, which is comprised of three
locations. The main section of the museum in the countryside is situated
atop Veselý Kopec, and other complexes are located in the Betlém district
in Hlinsko and the water mill in Svobodné Hamry.
Veselý Kopec and Betlém regularly host a diverse array of programmes
presenting folk culture traditions.
➤ www.vesely-kopec.eu/en
Village carnival processions
and masks in Hlinecko
Hlinecko Shrovetide Processions
Open-Air Museum Vysočina – Veselý Kopec
The Hlinecko Shrovetide Processions and Masks take pride in their
membership in the internationally-acclaimed UNESCO organisation‘s
intangible cultural heritage list. The traditional masked figure
processions take place at the end of Carnival season, which begins after
the Epiphany and ends on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The list
primarily includes festivities in the villages of Hamry, Studnice, Vortová
and in Blatná, a district of Hlinsko.
➤ www.vesely-kopec.eu/en
Letohrad Museum of Crafts
The Letohrad Museum of Crafts covers an area of 1,750 metres, and is the largest
museum of its type in the Czech Republic. It includes over 50 comprehensive exhibits
of crafts and trades. In addition to relatively well-known professions, it also presents
metal forming, wheel making, shingle roofing, and many others. Some of the most
interesting expositions include mechanical workshops, sawmills with three functional
historical mechanical frame saws, historical depots, and dental and gynaecological
clinics. The Museum of Crafts building also houses the stylish restaurant, Nový Dvůr.
➤ www.muzeumremesel.cz/en
Letohrad Museum of Crafts
Another one of the traditional symbols of Eastern Bohemia is the sweet biscuit
with a centuries-long tradition – the Pardubice gingerbread. You can even
find the popular Gingerbread House and Gingerbread Museum near Pardubice,
beneath Kunětická Mountain. A new permanent exhibit in the Skuteč city museum
presents the history and present era of Skuteč traditional trades – masonry and
shoemaking. For decades, Chrudim has hosted the Puppeteer‘s Chrudim festival.
In the local Museum of Puppetry, on the other hand, you can admire puppets from
around the world. Other traditional crafts and locales tied to tradition can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info.
Open-Air Museum Vysočina – Betlém Hlinsko
Puppetry Museum in Chrudim
Pardubický
perník
Pardubice
gingerbread
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Bohuslav Martinů
Centre in Polička – birth room
Famous Natives
Eastern Bohemia is the birthplace of a wide variety of
famous personalities who have held a significant place in
the history of the Bohemian nation. Famous natives include
renowned musical composers, inventors, athletes, architects,
singers, actors, politicians, and church dignitaries.
Bedřich Smetana
World-famous composer Bedřich Smetana was born in 1824 in Litomyšl as
the son of the local head brewer. He composed several operas, of which
the best-known and most famous is the Bartered Bride. His symphonic
tone poem cycle Má Vlast is also unique in worldwide musical composition.
Bedřich Smetana gradually became deaf during the course of his life, but
was able to compose numerous masterpieces despite this disability. He
died in 1884, and is buried at Vyšehrad in Prague. The composer‘s legacy
is highlighted each year in his native city with the Smetana‘s Litomyšl
International Opera Festival.
➤ www.rml.cz/en
Emil Holub
Emil Holub was born in Holice in 1847. From early childhood he wanted
to become a traveller. During the course of his life, he completed two
expeditions to Southern Africa, during which he travelled all the way to
Victoria Falls, and plotted the first map ever of these waterfalls and the
surrounding area. He acquired a rich collection of animals, plants, and
ethnographic materials on his journeys. After his return to his homeland, he
wished to donate his collections to the National Museum, but the museum
rejected his offer. The embittered traveller moved to Vienna, where he died
in 1902, not yet 55 years old.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
The birth house of the Veverka cousins of Rybitví
Jindřich Štyrský
Jindřich Štyrský was born in 1899 in Čermná near Lanškroun. He studied at
the Prague Academy of Fine Arts. His opus spans multiple artistic disciplines.
Together with the painter Toyen (Marie Čermínová), Štyrský was a leading
representative of Czech Surrealism. He was one of the first artists in Europe
working with collage. He worked actively in the Devětsil artistic association,
and was also the head of stage design at the Liberated Theatre. He died in
Prague in 1942.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Other famous natives include such figures as world-renowned composer
Bohuslav Martinů, born in Polička. Inventor of the screw-propeller Josef
Ressel was from Chrudim, the first Czech aviator Jan Kašpar was from
Pardubice, and acclaimed painter Antonín Chittussi was from Ronov nad
Doubravou. We could continue in this vein for quite some time...
Bedřich Smetana
Hipostezky
Emil Holub
Josef Ressel
Other famous figures can be found at www.east-bohemia.info/personalities.
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Nature
Nature and the natural landscape in Eastern Bohemia is
diverse and replete with contrasts. The fertile lowlands of
the Elbe River rise up to the Orlické Mountains and Králický
Sněžník, which is nicknamed “The Roof of Europe“.
In many areas in the region, priceless ecosystems of flora
and fauna virtually untouched by civilisation have been
declared protected landscape areas and nature reserves.
Each has something to offer its visitors. You only need to
choose...
Králický Sněžník
In Eastern Bohemia, you will find countless magnificent views that will take
your breath away. One of these places is Králický Sněžník. It is a landscape
of wild, pristine nature and mountain streams that carry water from here in
three directions to three seas.
Climb up to the mountain ridges and gaze across the countryside! Your
reward is a kingdom of silence. It will remain in your heart even after your
return to the mundane worries of everyday life.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Železné Mountains National Geopark
The region of the Železné Mountains National Geopark is exceptional for
many reasons. You could even consider it a comprehensive geology textbook.
In a relatively short space of time, you can see what it would take weeks and
thousands of kilometres to see across the entire Czech Republic.
Kralický Sněžník formation
Toulovcovy Maštale natural area
Zemská Gate, Orlické Mountains
This too makes it a popular destination for hikers and cyclists. The entire
area is densely covered with a well-marked network of hiking and cycling
trails, equestrian trails and, in the winter, marked cross-country skiing
routes.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Toulovec‘s Stables
The Toulovec‘s Stables natural reserve is one of the most picturesque
corners of Eastern Bohemia. It is located on the border of the districts
of Chrudim and Svitavy. It features sandstone rock formations creating
hidden rock formation cities interwoven with a system of corridors, caves,
and holes with intriguing names such as the Kitchen, Cellar, Mouse‘s
Hole, or Bell. Gorgeous natural scenery and the excellent accessibility of
additional significant monuments of the region makes Toulovec‘s Stables
a popular tourist destination.
➤ www.mastale.cz/en
Skutečské mines
The Bohdaneč Ponds National Nature Reserve also has an extraordinarily
rich history. Today, it represents only a fraction of its former magnificent
collection of 300 ponds established in the early 16th century.
Zemská Gate is also a popular destination. It is a protected natural reserve
with a wide variety of flora and is the entry point of the Divoká Orlice River
into the Czech territories.
Other natural landscape locales and attractions can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info/nature.
Seč Dam
Bohdaneč Ponds
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Architecture
Architectural structures, whether those built recently or those
which have withstood the test of time, have the ability to create
an impression – to become a journey‘s destination and a symbol
of a particular area. There are many such places in Eastern
Bohemia that can offer visitors an intense experience. And why
ever should they not, since this region has been fertile ground
for significant and respected figures, such as architects Josef
Gočár, Pavel Janák, Karel Řepa, and Jan Kotěra.
The signature of Semín native Josef Gočár is also evident on one
of the most famous technical monuments in the region, which
has earned the status of national cultural monument – the
Winternitz Automated Mill in Pardubice.
If you would like to see one of the most significant examples of
avant-garde architecture in the Czech Republic with your own
eyes, then do not miss visiting the Municipal Theatre in Ústí nad
Orlicí. It was designed by famed Prague architect Kamil Roškot.
Gočár Pavilion in Lázně Bohdaneč
The Léčebné Lázně Bohdaneč treatment spa complex is home to the monumental
Cubist pavilion by architect Josef Gočár. It was opened in May 1913, and still carries
Gočár‘s name to this day. It features his characteristic slanting trestles, oblique
moulding, slender pillars, and angled window panes, which round out the Cubist
character of the entire structure. The ground floor, with its projected covered
colonnade, is used for storing treatment equipment. The colonnade, with its
protruding bay windows, opens into the vestibule, and today leads into yet another
spa building. The building‘s appearance was changed significantly in 1925, when
another floor was added according to the designs of architect Antonín Hilse.
➤ www.spa-bohdanec.eu
Pardubice Crematorium
The crematorium in Pardubice was built on the designs of architect Pavel Janák in the
Rondo-cubist style. Two statues of torchbearers by Olomouc sculptor Karel Lenhart stand
at the entry stairway. The facade is intricately ornamented with geometric patterns,
which, however, do not detract from the overall monumentality of the structure. This
monumentality is further augmented by the large stairway with a circular window in the
frontispiece. The ceremonial hall is decorated with the paintings of František Kysela.
The building earned wider recognition thanks to the legendary film by Juraj Herz, The
Cremator (Spalovač mrtvol) from 1968, which was filmed at the Pardubice crematorium.
➤ www.visitpardubice.com
Gočár Pavilion
in Lázně Bohdaneč
Pardubice Crematorium
The Oratory of the Church of the Brethren in Litomyšl
The Oratory of the Church of the Brethren in Litomyšl
The new home of the Church of the Brethren is another contribution to the
colourful mosaic of modern Litomyšl architecture. The designs, implemented
in 2009-2010, were created by architect Zdeněk Fránek. One of its defining
features is the lapidary frontage and the rising roof, which looks as if it is
leading you up to the heavens. The church‘s austere symbolism is underlined by
the construction materials as well – glass and concrete. The altar section was
designed by renowned Holice artist Karel Malich, and the glass cross is the work
of Václav Cígler.
➤ www.litomysl.cz
The true centre of modern-day architecture, not only on a regional scale, but
on a national scale as well, is the city of Litomyšl. Among the most significant
achievements of recent years is the reconstruction of the local chateau brewery into
the European Training Centre, designed by architect Josef Pleskot, as well as the
sensitive Urbanistic design of the indoor swimming pool, which won the National
Architecture Award – Architecture Grand Prix.
European Training Centre in Litomyšl
This prestigious competitive exhibition award for modern Czech architecture has
also been conferred in Eastern Bohemia upon the tradition of Czech Functionalism
referenced in the Chemical Technology Faculty building of the University of Pardubice.
Other architectural attractions in the Pardubice region can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info.
Indoor swimming pool in Litomyšl
University of Pardubice
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Culture
GRAND Festival
of Laughter
Culture cultivates the soul, and the people of Eastern Bohemia are well aware of this fact. This is exactly why it hosts
countless cultural and social events. You can choose for
yourself, according to your own interests – theatre, cinema,
film, music, dance, or the visual arts. The range of choices
is extraordinarily diverse year-round.
Smetana‘s Litomyšl
Picturesque Litomyšl, the birthplace of famous musical composer, Bedřich
Smetana, has hosted the Smetana‘s Litomyšl International Opera Festival in late
June through early July since 1949. Festival activities are centred in the beautiful complex of the Litomyšl National Chateau. The main programmes take place
in the acoustically faultless second courtyard, which is equipped with a unique
retractable roof for the duration of this prestigious musical festival. In short,
Smetana‘s Litomyšl is a festival with an unparalleled genius loci. The historical
city, labelled “the spa for the soul,” comes alive during this significant cultural
and social event with a wide variety of accompanying events as well.
➤ www.smetana-litomysl.com
GRAND Festival of Laughter
A competition of the best Bohemian and Moravian comedies – this is the
GRAND Festival of Laughter, which has been held regularly at the Východočeské Divadlo (VČD) theatre in Pardubice since the year 2000. The competition is complemented by a wide-ranging accompanying programme. The
winning production earns the title of Comedy of the Year. Festival awards are
allocated by expert and student panels, as well as the audience.
VČD actors work at the Municipal Theatre all year at the Malá Scéna ve Dvoře
(Small Stage in the Courtyard), and in the summer months they also make
use of the natural amphitheatre at Kunětická Hora Castle. Each year, the VČD
presents approximately eight premieres, and its repertoire includes comedies, musicals, dramas, and fairytales.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Folklore Festival Pardubice – Hradec Králové
At the beginning of June each year, two of the largest Eastern Bohemian
cities, Pardubice and Hradec Králové, host a festival of folk ensembles from
various corners of the Czech Republic, arts and crafts, and folk art fairs, including an accompanying historical programme. Events in the City of Gingerbread are centred in the chateau and Pernštýn Square, and in Hradec Králové
they take place in Masaryk Square and Šrámek‘s Farm in Piletice.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Smetana‘s Litomyšl
Puppeteer’s Chrudim
Eastern Bohemian Gallery
Of course, Eastern Bohemia offers a much broader spectrum of cultural
events as well. For instance, Ústí nad Orlicí hosts the annual Kocián‘s Ústí
International Music Competition. Skuteč, on the other hand, is home
to the classical music and choral festival, Tomášek and Novák‘s Musical
Skuteč. Countless exhibitions take place at the Eastern Bohemian Gallery
in Pardubice. You can refresh your knowledge of the life and works
of Bohuslav Martinů with a visit to the Bohuslav Martinů Centre in Polička.
East Bohemia Theatre
at Kunětická hora Castle
Other attractions and suggestions for cultural events can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info.
Folklore Festival Pardubice – Hradec Králové
Kocián‘s
Musical Ústí
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Sacred Monuments
A large number of sacred monuments have survived in Eastern
Bohemia. These have helped shape Bohemian settlements since
the Middle Ages. Prior to the Second World War, one could find
a church or chapel in virtually every town. At that time, the Bohemian landscape had probably the densest network of chapels,
crosses, statues of saints, and wayside crosses in all of Europe.
After a long period of destruction and disinterest in these types
of monuments, they are gradually being renovated today.
Mountain of the Holy Mother Monastery
and Pilgrimage Site at Hedeč
Would you like to walk on the Holy Stairs, upon which Jesus Christ ascended to
the seat of judgement of Pontius Pilate? An exact replica of the staircase from
the Antonia Fortress in Jerusalem, which was later brought to Rome, Italy, can
be seen in the Mountain of the Holy Mother Pilgrimage Site. It is located near the
town of Králíky, situated on the border with Poland beneath Králický Sněžník.
The monastery served the Servite Order since its consecration in 1700, and
the Redemptorists after 1883. From 1950 to 1960, it became an internment
monastery for priests. It includes a monastery crypt, the Memorial to Victims
of the Internment exposition, and two courtyards open to the public.
➤ www.klasterkraliky.cz/en
Church of Our Lady Help of Christians
at Chlumek in Luže
Mountain of the Holy Mother Monastery at Hedeč
Church of Our Lady Help
of Christians at Chlumek – Luže
The top of Chlumek is home to an important pilgrimage site. With its doubled-towered silhouette, the pilgrimage Church of Our Lady Help of Christians
dominates the Luže region landscape far and wide. Its foundation is the Chapel
of the Virgin Mary, which was built in 1667-1669. Each year, the number of pilgrims visiting the site grew, which is why the decision was made to construct
a larger sanctuary. From 1690 through 1700, the large High-Baroque Church of
Our Lady Help of Christians replaced the chapel. At the turn of the century, the
building was repaired, and today it stands as a representative pilgrimage site.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Saint Catherine Rotunda in Česká Třebová
The Saint Catherine Rotunda in Česká Třebová is the oldest structure in the city,
and also the only surviving Romanesque rotunda in Eastern Bohemia. Today,
the building‘s origin is the subject of heated debate. As yet, the questions of
when, by whom, and why it was built have remained unanswered to any specific
degree of certainty. It was most likely built in the early 13th century in the
Romanesque style. During the course of the following centuries, it underwent
numerous reconstructions. The interior of the chapel is dominated by the Saint
Catherine altar, whose centre features a late-Gothic statuette of the patron
saint of the chapel, Saint Catherine of Alexandria.
➤ www.ceska-trebova.cz/en
Piarist Temple of the Discovery of the Holy Cross and residence hall in Litomyšl
Other significant sacred monuments in the region include the Church of Saint
Bartholomew in Pardubice, the Capuchin Monastery with the Church of Saint
Joseph in Chrudim, the Piarist Temple of the Discovery of the Holy Cross and
residence hall in Litomyšl, the Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on
the Calvary in Jaroměřice by Jevíčko, Church of Saint Bartholomew in Kočí,
Church of Saint Nicholas in Veliny, the Church of Saint Lawrence in Vysoké
Mýto, the Jewish synagogue in Heřmanův Městec, and the Jewish cemetery
and former Jewish ghetto in Žamberk.
Other interesting sacred structures can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info/monuments-attractions.
Church of Saint Lawrence in Vysoké Mýto
Saint Catherine Rotunda in Česká Třebová
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Technical Monuments
There is a whole range of interesting technical monuments
in Eastern Bohemia that enjoy rightful attention from visitors. One can admire unique historical bridges, waterworks
buildings, breweries, or old factories, as well as quarries,
artillery forts, military fortifications, observatories, water
supply lines, covered footbridges, watermills, dams, and
sluices. All of these structures continue to attract inquisitive tourists even today.
Králíky Fortified Sector
The Králíky Fortified Sector is an area with the highest concentration of remnants of the Czechoslovakian fortification system from 1935 through 1938.
If you decide to visit, you will be welcomed by dozens of museums in the
publicly-accessible bunkers, of which two of the largest are the Bouda and
Hůrka artillery forts. You can also look forward to beautiful natural scenery
and countless events organised by local enthusiasts. The largest and most
significant of these is Akce Cihelna. This event focuses on the presentation of
the military history and technologies of the previous century. The main item
on the programme is always the numerous battle re-enactments directed by
the military history clubs focusing primarily on the Second World War.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info/military-history
Mladějov Industrial Line
The eleven-kilometre long Mladějov 600 millimetre narrow-gauge railway
was built at the end of the First World War for transporting shale and local
Mladěj narrow-gauge railroad
Králíky Fortified Sector – Bouda artillery fort
Wooden covered bridge at the Church
of Saint Bartholomew in Kočí
Berlova Limeworks in Třemošnice
Bridge over the Pastviny water reservoir
Pařížov Reservoir
coal. It served this purpose until 1991. During the entire course of its operations, it primarily featured steam locomotives, which you can see today at
the head of the regular sightseeing trains.
Do not forget to visit the Mladějov Industrial Museum, whose exposition of
railroad, road, agricultural, and construction technologies can be found in
the complex of the former Mladějov plant itself.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Berlova Limeworks in Třemošnice
The Berlova Limeworks near the city of Třemošnice, also known as the
Závratec Limeworks, is a valuable technical and cultural monument which
is a testament to the local industrial tradition and history. It is a European
rarity. It has unified within itself a 120-year-old lime industry that featured
a five-kilometre-long cable transport line. A reconstruction of the limeworks
was carried out in 2009 through 2010. Today, it houses the museum of the
Železné Mountains lime industry.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Winternitz
Automated Mill
in Pardubice
Other significant technical monuments in Eastern Bohemia are the Seč and
Pařížov reservoirs, the Hřebeč Mining Paths, the watermill in Písečná near Žamberk, and the Opatovice Canal, which was built way back during the period of
Vilém of Pernštejn to supply the expansive network of fishponds. The canal is
almost 33 kilometres long, and still continues to fulfil its original function today.
Other technical monuments can be found at
www.east-bohemia.info/monuments-attractions.
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Active Relaxation
If you enjoy active relaxation, then Eastern Bohemia is
precisely what you are looking for!
Do water activities entice you? There is a whole range of
opportunities for swimming here – from the well-known
Pastviny and Seč reservoirs, through summer swimming areas
or indoor pools, to flooded quarries and natural sand-pit ponds.
Do you love golf? Great! Eastern Bohemia offers attractive
golf courses, driving ranges, golf academies, and indoor golf
centres.
Thanks to the continuously expanding network of bicycle
routes and trails, this region is perfect for cyclotourism.
Additionally, the region is intertwined by almost 600
kilometres of marked equestrian trails. And this is only a short
list of all of the activities you can enjoy here...
Orlické Cycling and Inline Kingdom
Have you ever heard of the Orlické Cycling and Inline Kingdom? It is a unique
network of cycling and inline trails that lead through the gorgeous valley of
the Tichá Orlice and Třebovka rivers, and offers quality asphalt surfaces and
minimal vertical ascents. Dozens of kilometres of trails depart from Ústí nad
Orlicí in all directions. Cycling routes will take you through cities and towns,
by castles and chateaus, along rivers and the Pastvinské dams, into the
highest parts of the Orlické Mountains up to the lodge on Šerlich, and along
the most beautiful areas of the Orlické Mountains Protected Landscape Area
and the foothills nature reserves.
➤ www.eaglemountains.cz
Králický Sněžník
Does the thought of walking through a virtually pristine landscape at an
elevation of 1,424 metres above sea level sound appealing? Then welcome
to the third tallest mountain range in the Czech Republic, Králický Sněžník,
which is nicknamed “The Roof of Europe“. Why? Because the water from its
peaks flows into three seas: the North, Baltic, and Black Seas! However, it
earned its official name, Králický Sněžník (Sněžník is derived from the Czech
word for “snow“) primarily because it is covered with snow for an average of
eight months in the year.
This area is currently undergoing dynamic expansion. You can see for yourself at
the numerous local winter centres. The largest of these are the complexes located in Červená Voda and Dolní Morava. The modern resort in Dolní Morava in par-
Orlické Cycling and Inline Kingdom
Králický Sněžník
ticular offers excellent skiing conditions during peak season, together with all of
the creature comforts and various other accompanying services. In the summer,
it becomes a sought-after destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
➤ www.east-bohemia.info
Orlické Mountains and the Orlické Mountain Foothills
The Orlické Mountains and Orlické Mountain foothills tourist area is a true
paradise for hikers, cyclists, and cross-country and downhill skiers. The
mountains and their foothills still continue to retain their charm. You will
not find any monstrous hotel complexes, but rather accommodation in
smaller establishments or in private lodgings.
One of the most famous resorts designated for downhill skiing lovers
in the Orlické Mountains is Čenkovice. Cross-country skiers can take
advantage of the tracks surrounding virtually every ski resort.
➤ www.eaglemountains.cz
Zemská brána Nature Trail in the Orlické hory Mountains
Do you love active relaxation combined with adventure? Would you like to
explore a region in which, according to legend, the bandit Baron Toulovec
hid centuries ago? Visit Toulovec‘s Stables, a one-of-a-kind complex of rock
formations, deep canyons, rock formation cities, caves, and free-standing
formations that boasts a dense network of hiking and cycling trails.
In Eastern Bohemia, you should also not miss the Podhůra Recreational
Forests, a complex of municipal forests belonging to the city of Chrudim with
an exciting nature trail, lookout tower, rope course park, and fitness centre.
Additional suggestions for active leisure time activities in the region can be
found at www.east-bohemia.info.
Equestrian trails
Toulovec‘s Stables
Golf at the bottom of Kunětická hora Mountain
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Litomyšl Chateau
Eastern
Bohemia
tourist
area
Map of the
Pardubice
Region
Dolní
Morava
Lázně Bohdaneč
PARDUBICE
Přelouč
Heřmanův
Městec
Seč
Žamberk
Holice
Králíky
Choceň
Vysoké
Chrudim
Mýto
Skuteč
Ústí
n. Orl.
Letohrad
Česká
Třebová
Lanškroun
Litomyšl
Svitavy
Hlinsko
Polička
Moravská
Třebová
Overview of tourist areas
in Eastern Bohemia
Pardubice tourist region
Chrudimsko-Hlinecko tourist region
Bohemian-Moravian borderland tourist region
Králický Sněžník tourist region
Orlické Mountains and the Orlické Mountain
foothills tourist region
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Important Events in Eastern Bohemia
Smetana‘s Litomyšl
An international opera festival held annually in late June and early July in
Litomyšl, the birthplace of composer Bedřich Smetana. The festival events
are centred in a marvellous Renaissance chateau, which was inscribed to the
UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999.
➤ www.smetana-litomysl.com
Velká Pardubická Steeplechase
directed by military historic clubs focused primarily on the Second World
War. Part of the event also includes presentations of armed and rescue forces
and exhibitions of historical and modern-day technologies.
➤ www.akcecihelna.com
Artisan Saturday
Every second Sunday in October, the city of horses and gingerbread hosts
one of the most challenging steeplechases on the old continent. Its
racecourse features the famous and feared Taxis Ditch. The most successful
jockey in the history of the Velká Pardubická is the legendary Josef Váňa, Sr.,
who has emerged victorious on eight occasions.
➤ www.pardubice-racecourse.cz/english
Hlinecko Shrovetide Processions
For several generations the people of Hlinecko have retained this one-ofa-kind custom, during which traditional masks and rituals come alive. The
uniqueness of the Hlinecko Village Shrovetide Processions and Masks earned
them an inscription into the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010.
➤ www.vesely-kopec.eu/en
Akce Cihelna
The Brickworks event: each year at the end of August a commemorative event
focused on military history and military technologies of the previous century
is held. The main item on the programme is the battle re-enactments,
Travel back to bygone eras in the largest craft museum in the Czech Republic,
located in the Nový Dvůr complex dating back to 1750 in Letohrad. It
includes over 50 comprehensive crafts and trades exhibits. Each year in early
July it hosts Artisan Saturday, a popular event connected to the presentation
of various handicrafts and demonstrations of historical machines in action.
➤ www.muzeumremesel.cz/en
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Published by: Destinační Společnost Východní Čechy
nám. Republiky 12, 530 02 Pardubice
Phone.: +420 466 030 412
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.vychodni-cechy.org
Photography credits: Destinační Společnost Východní Čechy archive,
Ing. Jiří Macek, Tomáš Kubelka, Radek Pavlík, František Bárta
www.east-bohemia.info
www.facebook.com/vychodnicechy
Realised under the project Your Eastern Bohemia,
which was co-financed
by the Regional Operational Programme
of the Northeast Cohesion Region.
Investing in your future
Co-financed by the European Union
from the European Regional Development Fund