Vilice: Ponds, Traces of Fortifications and History

Vilice combines varied terrain and a named pond system with archaeological, historical and natural-history themes. Specific points of interest include Kříženec water fortress, two Jewish cemeteries in the surrounding area and the Hadce u Hrnčíř plant site. If you are looking for accommodation, you can plan your stay around your interests in nature or culture rather than focusing on just one aspect of the place.

Landscape and pond system

The cadastral area of Vilice has a highly valuable landscape character and varied terrain. Between Husí hora and Vilice lies a system of three ponds: Velký Vilický rybník, Vilecký rybník and rybník Biřička. They are also called Prvák, Druhák and Třeťák; these additional names refer to the same bodies of water. The Vilický potok flows out of the pond system and then joins the Blanice. This makes it possible to trace the connection from still water, through the stream, to the river.

Kříženec and its history of fortifications

The Kříženec fortified site is an archaeological site with a particularly high density of finds. Kříženec was a water fortress with an irregular octagonal ground plan. Remains of ponds, wetlands and embankments that protected access to the fortress are still visible in the surrounding area. The historic site therefore comprises not only its architectural form, but also landscape features that were important for protecting access. Another historical trace is the site of a former fortress on the Salt Road; it is among Vilice’s most important landscape and architectural assets.

Cemeteries and crafts

A Jewish cemetery lies in the vicinity of Vilice, east of the road from Elbančice to Vilice. Near Běleč is a Jewish cemetery established before 1723, preserving around 180 gravestones, including Baroque and Neoclassical examples. It is freely accessible; check local access conditions before travelling. The number of surviving gravestones and the two named styles give the site historical and artistic character. Historically, potters in Hrnčíře made stoneware pots. This craft connection adds a dimension of production to the history, alongside fortifications and tombstones.

Nature and getting around

Near Hrnčíře, in the vicinity of Vilice, is Hadce u Hrnčíř, one of three sites in Czechia where the plant kuřička hadcová (Minuartia smejkalii) is found. This rare occurrence makes the site a special natural attraction. Local tourist routes also pass through Vilice. If you include a route in your plans, check its exact course and local conditions on site.

Themes for your stay

There are several different themes to choose from when planning your trip: the pond landscape and terrain, the history of fortifications, historic cemeteries, crafts or the distinctive plant site. Consider which of these themes you want to shape your stay; this will help you decide which destinations to prioritise.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Borkovice, Dudov, Budislav, Malsice, Radětice, Hlasivo, Sezimovo Ústí, Slapy.

For the wider travel overview: Tábor District.