Řečany nad Labem: the Elbe, a natural monument and church history

Řečany nad Labem lies just under seven kilometres west of Přelouč; the municipality also includes the village of Labětín. Extensive fertile fields define the landscape, while the Elbe flows through the northern part of the cadastral area. The municipality therefore brings together open agricultural land and a river landscape. This offers different options for planning your trip: the natural history of the Elbe side channel, local church history and traditions, or places of interest nearby.

An Elbe side channel with changing water levels

The Labské rameno Votoka natural monument lies in the municipalities of Řečany nad Labem and Semín, in the cadastral areas of Labětín and Semín. It protects a side channel separated from the main river, with its flora and fauna preserved. Its history has been shaped by river regulation and natural development: the side channel formed after regulation work carried out after 1915. Some of the riverside stands are probably remnants of the original floodplain forest; the silted-up section is covered by secondary floodplain forest. Open water is found only in the western part, and its extent varies throughout the year. Lush wetland vegetation grows around the water. Species found there include the European tree frog, moor frog and parti-coloured bat. The river’s history, floodplain forest and wetlands give the natural monument its distinctive character; the appearance of the water areas can also vary with the seasons. If you plan to visit the area, check current access options in advance.

The church and local traditions

The church’s history also goes back a long way: it was consecrated as early as 1165. The Romanesque apse and eastern part of the nave have been preserved. Another milestone came on 24 October 1407, when Bishop Václav Nikopolský reconsecrated the church to Saint Mary Magdalene. These two dates mark different historical events associated with the same church.

Local customs include the annual raising of the Maypole, the traditional witches’ bonfire on the eve of 1 May, and a pilgrimage. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these occasions, check the dates in advance. This helps you align your plans with the specific event date.

Trips in the surrounding area

The Kladruby nad Labem Stud Farm has a museum of carriages and harnesses; horseback riding and carriage rides are also available there. For specific plans, it is advisable to confirm dates and availability. If you prefer to travel by bike, the surrounding area has a wooded Elbe floodplain with numerous tree-lined avenues, suitable for cycling. Mošnice Nature Park lies west of Kladruby nad Labem. You can tailor your outing to your interests: equestrian activities, cycling in the wooded Elbe floodplain, or Mošnice Nature Park.

Choose the right focus for your accommodation search

Check the location of each accommodation in relation to the places you plan to visit. If you are visiting the museum or taking a carriage ride, you should also confirm dates and availability in advance. This way, your choice reflects the activities you actually have planned, rather than a general impression of the town.

Discover more destinations: Zdechovice, Dubany, Semín, Chýšť, Urbanice, Trnavka, Mokošín, Vápno

Explore the wider travel guide: Pardubice District.