Straňany: Folklore and History

Straňany brings together local folklore, customs and historic architectural forms. The Malše separates Straňany from Doudleby; at the same time, both villages are included in Velikonoční řehtání and the procession of Doudlebské dožínky. When choosing your destination, it is worth distinguishing between the different occasions: the row of houses and the history of the bridge focus on the past, while the folklore festival and Easter custom each have their own proceedings. Straňany is also a specific point on the Velešín–Roudné cycling route.

The Row of Houses and Local History

Straňany retains a row of houses with gates and simple gables from the original architecture. A document from 1360 names Buňata as the local judge of Straňany. These two historical references offer different perspectives: the row of houses highlights surviving architectural forms, while the document establishes a specific date and names an official. This gives architecture enthusiasts a different way to explore the village than those initially looking for an early historical reference.

The Malše, the Bridge and the Cycling Route

Čapkův most was built in 1928 and 1929 to replace a wooden footbridge. During the spring thaw, this footbridge was often damaged by floods or ice floes. Čapkův most is classified as an immovable cultural monument. This classification adds a cultural designation to the bridge’s history.

The Malše separates Straňany from Doudleby; Čapkův most, by contrast, connects two parts of the municipality of Doudleby on opposite banks of the river. On the Velešín–Roudné cycling route, the road descends in Straňany to the Malše. If you are planning the route, take this section down to the river into account and check the route conditions and signage before setting out; both may change. The Malše thus plays two different roles: it separates the villages and is also the destination of the descent in Straňany.

Folklore and Local Customs

The Doudlebánek children’s folklore ensemble is based at Straňany 35 and performs at festivals, community celebrations and for local audiences. Doudleban is considered the longest-running folklore ensemble in South Bohemia.

At the Doudlebské dožínky festival, the procession sets off in Straňany at the Bustov farmstead. Decorated horse-drawn wagons are part of the procession; in Doudleby, it turns and continues to Čapák, where open-air performances take place. The festival has been held annually in Doudleby since 1997. Check the dates and route for the relevant edition before travelling.

Velikonoční řehtání is a local folk custom in which younger children first go through Doudleby and then Straňany with ratchets. The specific details may vary. The two traditions differ in their proceedings and focus: Doudlebské dožínky features a procession with decorated horse-drawn wagons and open-air performances, while younger children go through the villages with ratchets during Velikonoční řehtání. This lets you distinguish between a festival procession and a local custom whose details may vary.

For the broader travel overview: Teindles.