Klecany: History and Views of the Vltava

Klecany brings together historic buildings, archaeological traces and viewpoints with connections to the Vltava. It also offers a long-distance cycle route and the ferry from Klecánky. If you are looking for a hotel in Klecany, these varied themes can help guide your plans for your stay: would you mainly like to explore the history of the buildings and the town, or also include views, the cycle route and a ferry crossing?

Church, Fortress and Château

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Klecany was first mentioned in a written record in 1332. Originally a Gothic building, it was later remodelled in the Baroque style. Its history can thus be read in two distinct stages: the early mention was followed by a change in architectural style. Anyone interested in the development of historic buildings will find a tangible point of reference in the town’s history here.

The historic milestones associated with Klecany Château also fall at different times. A fortress stood on its site and was mentioned as early as 1380; the château itself is documented from 1607. The two dates therefore refer to different buildings in the same location. This comparison helps distinguish the earlier fortification from the château documented later, as separate chapters in the site’s history.

The Hillfort and Its Location

The Klecany hillfort is classified as a significant archaeological site. It lies between Klecany and the Vltava, above the river’s right bank and southwest of the town. Its focus therefore differs from both the church and the history of the château: here, the archaeological site takes centre stage.

The site covered around 5.8 hectares and was fortified all around. In places, an earthen rampart is still visible in the landscape. Its size and the surviving earthworks offer two different points of reference: the area indicates its extent, while the remaining rampart is a visible trace of its construction. The largely artificial Čertovka path leads from the hillfort to the Vltava.

Viewpoints by the Vltava

The Vyhlídka viewpoint above the Vltava offers views of the river valley, as well as Levý Hradec and a lock. These views connect the river landscape with two other specific sights. You can choose this viewpoint based especially on the kind of scenery you would like to include in your stay.

The Vyhlídka nad jezem viewpoint is on a steep rock, with a wooden cross at its summit. This description sets it apart from the named views of the valley, Levý Hradec and the lock: here, the rock and the cross are the defining features of the viewpoint.

Cycle Route and Ferry in Klecánky

Long-distance Cycle Route No. 7, the “Labská stezka Praha–Drážďany” (Elbe Trail Prague–Dresden), passes through Klecany in the district of Klecánky. The ferry from Klecánky carries passengers, bicycles and small motorcycles. Crossings at this location have been documented since 1911. The cycle route and ferry are two separate options to consider when planning your trip; if you plan to cross, it is advisable to check the timetable in advance.

In Memory of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk

A plaque at Černá skála commemorates Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk’s visit on 16 July 1920. The site is also known locally as “Masarykova skála.” An annual commemorative procession in Masaryk’s honour ends here on the eve of 7 March. The plaque and the procession offer two different ways of remembering: a permanent memorial marking a specific date, and a recurring event with a named destination.

Discover more destinations: Hrusice, Vyžlovka, Mukařov, Nová Ves, Kostelni Hlavno, Křížkový Újezdec, Oplany, Lázně Toušeň.

For the wider travel overview: Okres Praha-Východ.