Strážov: History, Crafts and Excursions

Strážov combines a historic town centre worthy of preservation with a remarkable bobbin-lace tradition, medieval history and various excursion destinations. If you are looking for accommodation in Strážov, you can therefore shape your stay around culture, local history, activities and a visit to the Koupaliště. The different attractions do not lie in a single sight, but together create a varied picture of the town.

Historic Town Centre and Living Bobbin-Lace Tradition

The historic town centre of Strážov has been designated an urban heritage zone since 2003 and has preserved its character worthy of protection. It therefore provides the most important cultural and historical framework for a tour of the town. One of the special themes is bobbin lace: on 15 October 1896, a bobbin-lace school was ceremoniously opened in Strážov. The tradition is not merely part of the past. Today, it is maintained by a bobbin-lace group at the local primary school. A smaller but independent opportunity for a deeper look is provided by the Krajkářská expozice. It contains a collection of newly made lace created according to patterns by Emilie Mildeová–Paličková. This makes it possible to discover the local craft tradition through specific works, rather than perceiving it merely as a historical reference.

Church, Castle and Traces of Times Past

The early Gothic parish church of sv. Jiří is first mentioned in the middle of the 14th century. It stands in the oldest district of Strážov, which is called Hradčany. Inside are three altars: the main altar is dedicated to Saint George, while the two side altars are dedicated to Saint John of Nepomuk and the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The church and the oldest district thus form two closely connected but distinct points of reference for the history of the town. Hrad Castle also takes visitors back to the Middle Ages. It is a 14th-century castle that was remodelled in the Renaissance style after the mid-16th century. A prismatic tower, as well as ditches and ramparts, remain from the original Gothic complex. In addition, the small Baroque chapel of sv. Anny stands on the site of a former castle. It was built as a masonry chapel in the second half of the 18th century.

Cemetery, Excursion Route and Koupaliště

The Jewish cemetery lies about 1.5 kilometres from the centre of Strážov, on the slope of Smrková hora. The cemetery contains approximately two hundred gravestones; the oldest date from the first half of the 18th century. Its approximate distance and preserved gravestones make this an independent destination for visitors who would like to explore the older history of Strážov. For a longer excursion, the 34-kilometre “Opálka a Strážov” route passes through Strážov. The Koupaliště has a large pool, a children’s pool and two tennis courts. The Koupaliště is located about 1 kilometre from Strážov at a crossroads of popular cycling routes. This means that historical exploration, an excursion route and leisure facilities with water and sports amenities are available around the town as distinct options. The history of hiking is also part of the regional picture: in 1994, a group of residents from Strážov laid the foundation for regular monthly hikes in the Šumava region. Other destinations include Rovná and Krotějov.

For the broader travel overview: Klatovy District.

More destinations

More places under the same destination:

Frymburk U Sušice, Dlažov, Ujčín, Hejná, Prasily, Hamry Na Šumavě.