Kozmice: Church, Fortification Site and Landscape

Kozmice brings together two clearly distinct historical themes: the Church of St James the Greater as a landmark, and the Na Valech fortification site, with the terrain remains of a medieval fortification. This distinction is useful when planning a stay: the church is a place of worship and part of a protected ensemble, while Na Valech is defined by the landform of a fortified site. The picture of the area is complemented by a landscape view in Kácova Lhota and practical guidance on other places in the municipality.

Church of St James the Greater

The Church of St James the Greater is first mentioned in the second half of the 14th century; its bell tower dates from the middle of the 14th century. These dates refer to different features of the same building: the church’s first recorded mention and the dating of its bell tower. Thus, the first mention and the dating of a building element correspond to two separate points in the church’s history.

The church is listed as a cultural monument under reference number 15702/2-76. The protected ensemble includes the church, the surrounding wall, the rectory at No. 31, and the associated plots.

The church grounds are also registered as an archaeological site in category ÚAN I. The relevant entry was updated on 9 June 2023.

Na Valech Fortification Site

The Na Valech fortification site lies on the edge of the built-up area of Kozmice. It preserves significant terrain remains of a medieval fortified site, which served as a residence for the lesser landed nobility and dates from the 13th to the 15th century. A ditch surrounds the site, and a rampart is partially preserved; there are no visible masonry remains.

At Na Valech, the terrain remains and features of the fortification shape the historical impression; by contrast, the church is a place of worship with a protected ensemble. The two sites also differ chronologically: the fortification is dated to the 13th to 15th century, while the church is first mentioned in the second half of the 14th century and its bell tower dates from the middle of that century.

Landscape and Getting Around in Kozmice

Kácova Lhota is a district of Kozmice. At the southern edge of this district, there is a view across the landscape. This gives the municipality a landscape aspect in addition to its cultural and historical points of interest; the location helps you place the viewpoint within Kozmice.

There is currently no tourist educational trail running through the municipality. Kozmice has a multi-purpose sports area with a children’s playground established in 2018 and a pavilion. If you would like to include the area in your plans, check locally whether it is open to visitors.

Directions to the Motocross Track

To reach the motocross track in Kozmice, take exit 34 from the D1 and head towards Ostředek and Benešov. Check for current road closures before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Miličín, Trhový Štěpánov, Ctiboř, Drachkov, Skalice, Jankov, Dolní Kralovice, Netvorice

For the broader travel overview: Okres Benešov.