Nový Ples: Local History, Landscape and Pivní Štreka

Nový Ples lies in the Labe catchment area and is shaped by the history of the settlements of Ples, Nový Ples and Rasošky. The construction of Josefov Fortress also played a role. Travellers may also be interested in paved footpaths outside the village, guided tours of the underground passages of Josefov Fortress and the Pivní Štreka.

Local History and Historical Traces

Nový Ples was founded together with Rasošky on land cleared in the Rasoška Forest after residents of the old settlement of Ples lost their farmsteads during the construction of Josefov Fortress. Around 48 farmers, whose former farmsteads, houses and plots had been removed, received new building plots and fields. The original centre of Ples was located in the area of the former Church of St. Giles and two fortresses. The historic settlement of Ples developed on the left bank of the Metuje and Labe rivers and the Jasenský potok stream. There is also a bell tower with a crucifix monument on a street in Nový Ples.

A military triangulation point is located near the airport by Nový Ples. It is one of the three points of the Josefov base; this point and the other two were established in 1863 as part of the triangulation carried out from 1862 to 1898.

Landscape and Paths

Nový Ples lies in a gently rolling landscape in the Labe catchment area, at an elevation of around 250 to 280 metres. River terraces and floodplains shape the landscape; floodplains, wetlands, ponds and forests are also recognised as significant landscape features. The Novopleský potok rises above Nový Ples, flows north-west and west, and empties into the Labe. Cycle Route 4034 runs along the northern edge of the area. Outside the village, paved footpaths provide access to the surrounding landscape.

Josefov Fortress and Underground Tours

The northern part of the Nový Ples area extends into the buffer zone of the Josefov heritage conservation area near Jaroměř. Josefov Fortress was completed in 1787 and now offers guided tours of its underground passages. If you are planning a visit, check the current tour times in advance.

Pivní Štreka as a Team Competition

The Pivní Štreka is a team competition around Nový Ples. Teams compete in pairs or with more people; the route is about 24.5 kilometres long. The format and distance may vary between editions. Each team carries a 10-litre beer keg, whose contents must be drunk before reaching the finish. The entry conditions may also change from one edition to another. If the event is an important part of your trip, check the date and rules for the specific edition. The Bakovský Štrekoun lager, brewed especially for the Pivní Štreka, was created in collaboration between the organising team and Bakovský pivovar; the event beer may vary between editions.

Discover more destinations: Říkov, Velichovky, Stolin, Žďár Nad Metují, Starkov, Jestřebí Nad Metují, Zlic, Sendraž

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