Staré Bříště

Staré Bříště combines tranquil nature with a clearly recognizable village history. Particularly interesting are the protected area along the Jankovský potok, the quiet Vilímek Pond, the chapel in the village square and several traditional events. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between nature observation, cultural and historical details and a landscape route, without reducing the place to just one attraction.

Nature along the Jankovský potok and at Vilímek Pond

The main conservation objective of the protected area along the Jankovský potok is a unique population of the endangered freshwater pearl mussel. The protected area includes the stream and the valley floor over a length of approximately 13 kilometres. The focus is therefore not on a single viewpoint, but on an elongated natural area whose special value is linked to the freshwater pearl mussel.

Vilímek Pond has a different character. It is a tranquil place without extensive recreational development, where waterfowl and other animals can be observed. For your choice of excursions, this means two different nature experiences: At the Jankovský potok, the focus is on protecting a rare animal population and a longer stream and valley area, while at Vilímek Pond it is on a quiet landscape with opportunities for observing animals.

Chapel and protected small monuments

A chapel stands in the village square of Staré Bříště; it was built in 1865. It has a small bell tower and a rectangular nave. Its architectural form is therefore documented just as specifically as its location in the village. Another cultural and historical detail is the Boží muka near house number 29 in Staré Bříště. This is a stone octagonal pillar with a broader, hewn chapel dating from around the 17th century. The Boží muka is a state-protected immovable cultural monument and is freely accessible.

Local traditions throughout the year

The chapel is also associated with recurring traditions. Since 2004, a meeting has been held there at night on Christmas Eve, featuring the singing of Christmas carols and a ceremonial speech; this gave rise to a tradition. Another tradition consists of four Advent gatherings in the chapel, each taking place on the eve of one of the Advent Sundays. Alongside its architectural history, these dates give the village chapel an additional role in local life.

The Starobříšťská pouť was established on the occasion of the feast of Saint John of Nepomuk; the local chapel is dedicated to him. The Starobříšťská pouť included a ceremonial service as well as games for children and adults. Delicacies prepared by local women and girls are offered for this occasion. The feast day thus combines religious history, community activities and regional hospitality, without requiring these elements to be considered separately.

Landscape route through Staré Bříště

If you would like to include Staré Bříště in a longer exploration of the landscape, the Southern Circular Trail around Humpolec passes through the village. From there, it continues along the Vlčí hory landscape and the shore of Vlčehorský rybník towards Lipovky. The route therefore provides its own opportunity to connect the village with several landscape areas, rather than focusing your stay exclusively on the village centre.

More destinations for your search

If you would like to open more places from the same selection, you can find Vyklantice, Jiřice U Humpolce, Martinice U Onšova, Bořetín, Velký Rybník, Píšť, Střítež Pod Křemešníkem and Žirovnice here.

To the higher-level travel overview: Pelhřimov District.