Mutějovice: Architecture, ceramics and Džbán Castle

Mutějovice combines historic buildings, ceramic crafts, and opportunities for hiking and cycling. The town is a gateway to Džbán Nature Park. A 6 km circular hike leads to Džbán Castle; a 35 km cycling route ends at Mutějovice railway station.

Buildings and local history

Architectural landmarks in Mutějovice include a Neoclassical rectory with a granary and drying shed. House No. 37 on the northwestern edge of the town is the last example of older half-timbered architecture there. The complex of St. Procopius Church is a valuable ensemble of Baroque, Neoclassical, and 19th-century monuments. St. Wenceslas Church is also one of Mutějovice’s sights.

An excursion to Džbán Castle combines the landscape with a historic destination. The castle was probably built in the first half of the 13th century to protect a trade route that passed through the Vrata gorge below the castle. The “Džbán Legends and Mysteries” circular hike is 6 km long and leads from Mutějovice to the castle. The presumed period of construction and the purpose of the site give the destination a historical connection to the trade route and the gorge.

Hiking, cycling, and the landscape

In Džbán Nature Park, flatlands alternate with steep slopes covered in centuries-old beech trees. The landscape also features gorges tens of metres deep, pale marl slopes and escarpments, hop gardens, and ponds.

Those planning a longer cycling trip can take the “Chmel Jsem Česal Já!” route: it is 35 km long and ends at Mutějovice railway station. By comparison, the 6 km circular hike to the castle is the shorter of the two routes described, but leads to a specific historic destination. Hiking and cycling can therefore be distinguished by distance, mode of travel, and destination.

Another themed trail leads to the Kounov stone rows. The educational trail is 4.3 km long and has 11 stops. It starts at a railway crossing on the road to Kounov, about 0.7 km from Mutějovice railway station. The trail covers geology, botany, zoology, agriculture, and forestry.

Ceramics and local products

The Hrnčírna Mutějovice gallery sells traditional and experimental ceramics. Hrnčírna Mutějovice focuses on Czech ceramics fired in wood-burning kilns. Poddžbánský Brewery brews traditional Czech lagers. They are bottom-fermented, unfiltered, and unpasteurised.

Practical information

Cross-country ski trails are available around Mutějovice in winter; check current conditions before planning your trip. A railway station and the Prague–Chomutov railway line are located near Mutějovice. If you are considering travelling by train, check the current timetable.

Discover more destinations: Lubná, Lhotka-Ostrovec, Rynholec, Pochvalov, Branov, Městečko, Krupá, Příčina

See the wider travel overview: Rakovník District.