Zinkovy: Castle, Ponds and Culture

There are several highlights to choose from for a stay in Zinkovy: castle history, a temple-like structure, two large ponds, the Klejnot nature trail and local history. If you would like to include architecture and history, the castle, the Žinkovský Templ and the regional collection offer different points of interest. For time outdoors, consider a walk around the castle and Labuť Pond or the nature trail. When making your choice, you can distinguish between buildings and the collection on the one hand, and a walk by the ponds or a themed trail on the other.

Castle History and Architecture

Žinkovy Castle was built in the second half of the 17th century on the site of an earlier fortress as an early Baroque castle. In 1897, it was remodelled in the Neo-Renaissance style by the Viennese architects H. Helmer and F. Fellner. The castle also has a Chapel of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was remodelled in the Neo-Gothic style and received a new three-part altar and rich stucco decoration. The building history thus reflects both its early Baroque origins and its Neo-Renaissance remodelling; the chapel adds a different note with its Neo-Gothic design.

The Žinkovský Templ

The Žinkovský Templ is situated on Františkov Hill near Žinkovy. It is a round belvedere built as an imitation of an ancient temple, with eight columns in the Tuscan order. It originally served as a place for picnics and hunting stays for the owners of the Žinkovy estate. Its form and former use make it a different architectural feature from the castle: here, the focus is on classical-inspired design and spending time outdoors.

Ponds and Trails

The large ponds of Žinkovy include Labuť and Žinkovský rybník. They share a single water surface; a bridge separates them and connects to the avenue on the opposite side. It is also possible to walk around Žinkovy Castle and Labuť Pond.

The Klejnot nature trail is about 4.5 kilometres long, runs mostly through the forest and is intended for pedestrians. Six stops feature information panels and stories, as well as mostly carved animals or play elements. Compared with the walk around the castle and pond, Klejnot is the option with an approximate route length and themed stops. If you are weighing up before your trip which type of outing best suits your interests, the length, forest route and stops offer concrete points to consider.

Local History and Tradition

The local history collection of the Žinkovy region is on the ground floor of the municipal office building in the town square. Larger groups must book their visit by phone. The Žinkovy Information Centre sells maps, tourist stamps and tourist postcards, and offers guided tours of the museum. The collection and information centre thus cater to different interests: regional local history, as well as maps, tourist souvenirs and museum tours.

The restored Šindelářojc Chapel stands by the Dobrá voda spring. The water is locally believed to have healing properties. This place thus brings together a chapel, a spring and local tradition.

Discover more destinations: Horní Lukavice, Oplot, Útušice, Borovno, Chocenice, Vrčeň, Borovy, Zemětice

For the regional travel overview: Plzeň-Jih.