Discover Trhový Štěpánov: History, Culture and Cycling Routes

Trhový Štěpánov combines medieval urban history with sacred art, a freely accessible Jewish cemetery and specific opportunities for cyclists. It is also home to the Na Pasece observation tower and a recreational area on Paseka Hill. If you would like to combine different interests on your trip, you will find historical traces, landscapes and local traditions here, presented in clearly distinguishable themes.

Nature, Views and Cycling

The Na Pasece observation tower stands on Paseka Hill at an elevation of 516 m, approximately 1 km northwest of Trhový Štěpánov. On the same hill, a former quarry contains a recreational area with an educational trail about the history of quarrying and uranium mining. The educational trail complements the viewpoint with an insight into the site's industrial past.

For active exploration, cycle route 8243 is a good option. It connects Trhový Štěpánov with Tehov via the Kladruby Rehabilitation Institute. The paved cycle route 8243 is suitable for wheelchair users, cyclists and inline skaters. This means you can also choose accommodation according to whether you would like to combine historical sightseeing with a documented route.

Urban History and Sacred Art

Bishop Tobiáš of Bechyně elevated Trhový Štěpánov to town status in 1290. The remains of the former Štěpánov castle include sections of the walls and a stone from the castle gate dating from 1668. The remains point to an earlier era, while the Church of St Bartholomew reveals various layers of construction and furnishings.

The Church of St Bartholomew dates from the period after the mid-14th century and features Neo-Gothic alterations. Inside are Gothic wall paintings with busts of prophets in medallions. The grounds also include a cemetery wall with decorated gates and a niche chapel. During a tour, you can therefore take note not only of the church itself but also of its complementary architectural details.

The Jewish cemetery in Trhový Štěpánov is freely accessible. The protected, very elongated grounds contain tombstones dating from the early 18th century. A stone perimeter wall with an entrance house encloses the cemetery. When planning a cultural and historical visit, this combination of accessibility, early tombstones and a clearly recognizable enclosure is particularly relevant.

Museum and Local Tradition

The Štěpánovska Museum is located in a building considered one of the oldest in Trhový Štěpánov. You can visit the museum by prior telephone arrangement. The Josefa Tříška Gallery was moved to the Štěpánovska Museum in 2012 and opened to the public on 23 June. Those wishing to focus their stay more strongly on local history and art can therefore consider these two offerings together.

Another local highlight is the Štěpánovské vinobraní, a popular local wine harvest festival held in another vintage year. It complements the historical sights with a regional tradition and expands the possible focus of your trip beyond buildings and landscapes.

More Places for Your Trip Planning

For more ideas of places to visit, you can also explore Pysely, Vojkov, Dunice, Ješetice, Stranný, Šetějovice, Zvěstov and Tomice.

For the broader travel overview: Benešov District.