Discover Včelnička

Včelnička between a Cycling Trip and Glassmaking History

Včelnička combines a distinctive cycling trip with an unusually rich history of glassmaking. The “Včelnička–Bohdalín” trip follows a blue-marked hiking trail for most of its route and uses the paved road from Včelnička to Vodná. In the wider regional surroundings, the route reaches the 642-metre-high, unforested Ve Vrších mountain. From there, Včelnička can be seen. For your travel planning, this creates a clear transition between active exploration and a closer look at the history of the village.

Glassmaking as a Defining Heritage

Antonín Rückl established the glassworks in Včelnička in 1875. It was expanded in 1893, and a water-powered grinding workshop was established at the same time. The glassworks specialised in “zlacený granát”, red glass with gold decoration in relief technique. Its products were exported. The building, which is now closed, recalls the former fame of Antonín Rückl’s glassworks, without implying that it can be visited today.

Traces of this tradition may also be noticeable outside the closed building. During a walk around Včelnička or Kamenice nad Lipou, you may come across picturesque glass balls and glass spikes adorning the fences of houses and holiday homes. This creates an element of discovery along the way for families: the history of glassmaking is encountered not only as a date, but also in visible details of the local design.

Chapel, Remembrance and Local History

The built-up area of Včelnička is classified as a Category I archaeological area (ÚAN I). A more recent feature is the Chapel of Saint Anne, built in 2021. Its interior contains a cross and an image of Saint Anne. The blessing of the new chapel and its new bell was announced for 24 July 2021; a memorial plaque for JUDr. Jan Jiří Rückl (1900–1938), who came from Včelnička, was also to be unveiled at the same time. This announced event is part of the documented local history and is not a statement about a current events programme.

Jan Jiří Rückl was born on 12 May 1900 in Včelnička into a traditional Czech glassmaking family. The Včelnička Volunteer Fire Brigade, founded in 1906, is also part of the village’s historical heritage. Together with the glassworks, the chapel and the archaeological classification, these elements create a picture in which craft, religious and civic history stand side by side.

Choose Accommodation According to Your Preferred Travel Theme

If you are looking for accommodation in Včelnička, it is worth first deciding which focus should define your stay. The “Včelnička–Bohdalín” cycling trip suits an itinerary in which the route, Vodná and the view from Ve Vrších belong together. Those with a stronger interest in culture and local traditions can focus on the glassworks, the Chapel of Saint Anne, the glass details on the fences and the history of the Rückl family.

Discover More Destinations

More travel destinations on the portal can be found under Zajíčkov, Betlem, Dobrá Voda, Ústrašín, Castrov, Nová Cerekev, Chyšná and Veselá.

To the higher-level travel overview: Pelhřimov District.