Rovensko Pod Troskami: Hiking and History in the Bohemian Paradise

Rovensko pod Troskami is considered an important crossroads of hiking trails in the Bohemian Paradise. Hiking routes, a distinctive rocky landscape, and traces of the town’s history offer different ways to spend your stay. A 9 km circular hike starts in the square and leads via Borek and Trosky back to the square.

Hiking from the Square

The recommended route also starts in the square and follows the blue-marked trail towards Borek pod Troskami. It passes through Borecké skály. Two details are useful for finding your way: the distance indicates the length of the circular hike, while the blue markings indicate the recommended route towards Borek. The Svatopluka Čecha viewpoint along the route offers a view of Trosky.

Rocky Landscapes and Nature

Borecké skály is a protected natural monument located in the municipal areas of Rovensko pod Troskami and Hrubá Skála. The rock city consists of Upper Cretaceous block sandstone. A marked hiking trail with viewpoints runs through the area. Thus, geological features, a marked trail, and views are among the described characteristics of this landscape. The wildlife is also notable: kestrels, eagle owls, and rare common ravens nest in Borecké skály.

Buildings and Art in the Town

A Baroque Marian column dating from 1744 stands in the square. The centre is also home to the sculpture group “Rozhovor” by sculptor Josef Drahoňovský. In the church of Rovensko pod Troskami, the Gothic choir dates from the 14th century; the nave was remodelled in 1573. The different dates place these buildings in different periods, while the sculpture group adds a distinctive artistic touch to the square.

Belfry and Visiting Hours

The wooden belfry dates from 1630. Its three so-called rebel bells hang with their clappers pointing upwards. The three distinctive bells are set in motion by pedalling. While the bells are ringing, the tower is open without a guided tour on Sundays and officially recognised public holidays from 11:45 to 12:15; the bell ringers are present. Check the seasonal visiting information again before your trip. Please check these visiting arrangements once more before your trip.

Notable Figures and Memorials

A monument in the town park commemorates the poet Svatopluk Čech and his stay there in the summer of 1891. One of the rocky viewpoints in the forest of Bor above Rovensko pod Troskami bears his name: the Svatopluka Čecha viewpoint along the route offers a view of Trosky. The composer Václav Karel Holan Rovenský, who was born in Rovensko pod Troskami, was buried in the church of Rovensko. At the Church of St. Wenceslas in Týn stands the “Poutník u cíle” memorial, dedicated to the victims of the First and Second World Wars.

The town’s history also includes craft traditions: Bohemian garnets, glass, and semi-precious stones were cut in homes in Rovensko pod Troskami. The town hall houses a permanent exhibition on the town’s historical events. The cultural offering thus ranges from buildings and memorials to local history and traditional crafts.

Discover more destinations: Jesenný, Ktová, Horni Branna, Prackov, Hochstadt An Der Iser, Končiny, Košov, Rychlov

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