Kostelec for your stay: church, monuments and hillfort

If you’re looking for a hotel in Kostelec, the cultural history of the place is a defining theme. The filial Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, monuments in the village and the hillfort each represent a different aspect of it: architectural history, individual landmarks on the village square and a large archaeological fortified area. The KČT cycling route No. 14 also passes through Kostelec. These specific themes can help you understand the character of the destination before choosing your accommodation.

Church: Gothic origins and later alterations

The filial Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is located in Kostelec and is of Gothic origin. Its present-day appearance also reflects two later building phases: it was remodelled in the Renaissance style after the mid-16th century, followed by a Baroque redesign in the mid-18th century. The building therefore offers a way to consider its origins separately from the alterations made later.

The wooden bell tower beside the church was built in the 1880s. The earlier bell tower was one storey taller and had up to four bells. Check the church’s opening hours before visiting.

Monuments in the village

The statue of the Virgin Mary on the village square dates to approximately the mid-18th century. A cross near the transformer bears the year 1756 and dates from the time of the Seven Years’ War. The statue can only be dated approximately, while the cross bears a specific year. Behind the village, a chapel is a local monument awaiting repairs. Check its condition before visiting.

Size and landscape of the hillfort

Including its fortifications, the Kostelec hillfort covers about 13.5 hectares. The fortification was almost 1,500 metres long and enclosed an area of 12.20 hectares. The figures refer to different areas: the first includes the fortifications in the total area, while the second refers to the area enclosed by the fortification. This distinguishes the overall extent from the enclosed area.

The hillfort was built in a location offering a good view of the entire Jičín Basin, including the Prachov Rocks. Its setting in the surrounding landscape is therefore another aspect to consider alongside its dimensions.

Along the village road, the surviving southern fortification is visible as an earth rampart more than 2.5 metres high. Agricultural use may affect how visible it is today. The visible rampart is one specific section; the area figures, by contrast, refer to the site as a whole.

Cycling route, access and directions

KČT cycling route No. 14 passes through Kostelec. Check the current signs before setting out. Access to Kostelec is not marked by a hiking trail (TZN). The cycling route and access to the village are different wayfinding details; check the current signs for your route.

The road from Jičíněves is recommended as the most suitable route for getting there. Check road conditions before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Kbelnice, Podkost, Sobčice, Pecka, Vršce, Šárovcova Lhota, Rohoznice, Vřesník.

For the broader travel overview: Jičín District.