Radovesnice II between Technology, Ceramic Art and Forests

Radovesnice II between Technology, Ceramic Art and Forests

Across its featured attractions, Radovesnice II brings together the history of technology, ceramic art, local history and protected woodland landscapes. If you are looking for a variety of themes rather than a single focus for your trip, you will find unusual points of interest here, ranging from historic machines to rare species.

Historic Tractors in Nine Halls

At the Muzeum Veteránů Radovesnice II, you can see historic tractors, including a LANZ BULLDOG, Landini, Vierzon, a half-track Zetor and the MB Trac. The exhibits are spread across a total of nine halls. For visitors with different interests, the collection therefore offers several specific points of interest.

Outside regular opening hours, the museum offers guided tours for groups of at least 15 people by prior arrangement. Those travelling in a larger group can take this visiting option into account in advance.

The Czech Republic’s Largest Ceramic Nativity Scene

The Radovesnický betlém is the largest ceramic nativity scene in the Czech Republic and comprises more than 470 ceramic figures. In a central section, it depicts a typical Czech landscape with a rural character, small churches and folk-style buildings. The work thus combines the size of the collection with a clearly defined landscape scene.

From the beginning of Advent until 31 January, the Radovesnický betlém is open all day; visits outside this period can be arranged by telephone. For planning purposes, the seasonal period is therefore the main factor to consider.

Protected Forests and Special Species

The Žiželický les natural monument lies within the cadastral areas of Choťovice, Končice and Radovesnice II. It protects oak-hornbeam and oak forest communities, as well as the scarce fritillary (Euphydryas maturna), the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus) and the lady’s slipper orchid (Cypripedium calceolus).

It can be accessed from the north via an unmarked path from the Korce farmstead, or from the south via a path branching off the Dománovice–Žiželice road. The two directions provide clear guidance for visiting the natural monument.

The Dománovický les nature reserve also lies within the cadastral areas of Dománovice and Radovesnice II. It protects a natural Hercynian oak-hornbeam forest, oak forests and rare animal and plant species, particularly orchids and butterflies.

Technology and Local History

The Libněveská řepařská drážka was a narrow-gauge sugar beet railway with a track gauge of 600 mm, which began operating on 18 August 1925. Radovesnice II is one of the places served by this historic railway.

No structural remains survive from the vanished castle of Radovesnice II. The place name “Na Hrádku” still commemorates its existence; the castle was first mentioned in 1571.

The cemetery gate in Radovesnice II is an Empire-style structure dating from the early 19th century. It is located north of the village on the road to Rozehnal.

Getting There and Further Orientation

Radovesnice II can be reached by bus from Kolín, Kutná Hora or Chlumec nad Cidlinou. This connection complements the thematic orientation with a specific travel option.

For further travel planning, you can also find Tuchoraz, Polní Chrčice, Žehuň, Starý Kolín, Grunta, Veltruby, Žabonosy and Třebovle.

For the wider travel overview: Kolín District.