Úherce: Nature and Local History

Úherce combines a protected wetland with remarkable evidence of local history. This creates a diverse picture for you and your family: at Nový rybník, the focus is on waterbirds and nature observation, while in the village itself, it is on the church, chapels, wells, monuments and places of remembrance. There is also a horse-riding opportunity for children and a traditional event held in honour of Saint Joseph.

Observe waterbirds at Nový rybník

The Nový rybník nature reserve is located in Úherce. It protects breeding and migratory habitats for waterbirds as well as a wetland ecosystem of supra-regional importance. An ornithological observation tower was built there in 2009. From it, waterbirds can be observed without disturbing them. This makes it possible to discover the natural area in a calm yet tangible way: the focus is not only on the landscape itself, but also on its function as a habitat.

Church, wells and chapels

The Church of St. Joseph is one of the notable cultural landmarks. It is registered as a listed monument under registration number ÚSKP 1639. The present church was completed in 1901 in the pseudo-Romanesque style, based on plans by the Pilsen architect František Josef Erhart. It is opened to visitors every year during the Úherecká pouť. The pilgrimage in honour of Saint Joseph is an event in Úherce that is well attended by children and adults.

The Helka well is approximately 13.5 metres deep and built entirely of sandstone blocks. At the same time, it is considered the oldest surviving building in Úherce. Another unusual detail can be found at the northern chapel on the village square: its present form probably dates from the first half of the 19th century, and the chapel forms part of the boundary wall of house no. 46. Those who pay attention to such connections between buildings and the village structure discover local history not only at individual sights, but also in their architectural setting.

Crosses, a column and places of remembrance

The Braschkův Cross stands at the intersection of K Mexiku Street and the path to Velký rybník. It is considered the best-preserved cross in Úherce. At the intersection of Hlavní and Topolová Streets stands the Baroque column of Saint John of Nepomuk. It was restored with a new statue in 2016.

The cemetery is also part of the documented local history. It is designated as a cultural monument of local and regional importance. It also contains a grave for nine Russian soldiers who did not live to see the end of the Second World War. The war memorial in Úherce was unveiled in 1925 in memory of those who fell in the First World War.

A memorial plaque commemorates Major General Jan Roman Irving. It was unveiled on 19 May 2001 at house E 11 on Hlavní Street in Úherce. Jan Roman Irving was a pilot in the famous 311th Czechoslovak Bomber Squadron of the Royal Air Force in Great Britain. This place of remembrance complements the religious and military-historical evidence with a specific biography.

A family-friendly activity

At Jízdárna Nikol, children can ride horses. Together with nature observation at Nový rybník and the Church of St. Joseph, which opens every year, this provides a selection of different experiences: observing animals, local history, religious tradition and an activity for younger visitors are documented themes that exist side by side, without Úherce having to be limited to just one type of holiday.

Further village pages are available for Pernarec, Újezd Nade Mží, Koryta, Velečín, Dolní Hradiště, Brodeslavy, Kunějovice and Manetin.

For the higher-level travel overview: Plzeň-Sever District.