Discover Staré Bříště

Get to know Staré Bříště through its natural attractions and village heritage. A protected area along the Jankovský stream, the Vilímek pond, a named circular trail, and religious traditions offer different perspectives for planning your trip. The key question is whether you want to focus on the landscape and wildlife watching, architectural styles, or a seasonal event.

Nature between stream, valley, and pond

The protected area along the Jankovský stream covers the stream and valley floor for about 13 kilometres. Its conservation objective focuses on a unique population of the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel. For nature enthusiasts, the focus is clear: the stream and valley floor form the protected landscape, while the endangered mussel is the central species conservation objective.

At Vilímek pond, a different kind of nature experience takes centre stage. The place is quiet and has no significant recreational development; visitors can also observe waterbirds and other animals there. The two natural attractions offer different emphases: the Jankovský stream is about protecting the freshwater pearl mussel, while Vilímek pond is about observing wildlife.

The Southern Circular Trail around Humpolec also passes through Staré Bříště. It then runs along the Vlčí hory landscape and the shore of Vlčehorský pond in the direction of Lipovky. Unlike a single nature-watching spot, this route offers a named trail through the village and on to these landscape features.

Religious architecture and its history

The Boží muka wayside shrine near house number 29 in Staré Bříště is a state-protected immovable cultural monument. It is a stone, octagonal pillar with a wider, carved shrine; the structure dates from around the 17th century. A record from 2019 states that the monument was freely accessible. Check access before your visit.

Another chapel stands in the village square. It was built in 1865 and has a small bell tower and a rectangular nave. The buildings also differ in age: the village-square chapel dates from 1865, while the Boží muka wayside shrine is from around the 17th century.

Advent and local traditions

Since 2004, a gathering with Christmas carols and a ceremonial address has been held at night in the local chapel on Christmas Eve; this became a tradition. Another tradition is four Advent gatherings in the chapel, each on the eve of one of the Advent Sundays. If you would like to plan your visit around one of these gatherings, check the current dates and arrangements in advance.

The Starobříšťská pouť (Staré Bříště pilgrimage festival) was established for the feast of Saint John of Nepomuk, to whom the local chapel is dedicated. The festival included a ceremonial service as well as games for children and adults. Treats prepared by local women and girls were also offered for the occasion. If you are planning a trip specifically for the pilgrimage festival, check the date and current programme locally in advance.

Discover more destinations: Ondřejov U Pelhřimova, Syrov, Kejzlice, Velká Chyška, Kaliště, Krasonov, Mezilesí U Pelhřimova, Veselá.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Pelhřimov.