Jankov: Churches, History and Nature

Jankov can be assessed through several distinct interests: religious architecture, the memory of the 1645 battle and nature. The church and chapel offer two different architectural points of interest; the battle is commemorated by a monument and a memorial room. Circular routes and a nature trail add opportunities to factor route length and the natural setting into your travel plans alongside the historical themes.

Religious Architecture and Local History

The Church of St. John the Baptist stands on the north side of Jankov Square, at the end of the park and on a small rise above a former fortification. It is Romanesque and dates from the first half of the 12th century. It was extended after the middle of the 13th century, followed by a renovation at the end of the 17th century. The building has a single nave and a semicircular presbytery. Its location and building history offer two different points of interest: its position by the square and above the former fortification, and the development of the building over several centuries.

An unusual Rococo niche chapel with a statue of St. John of Nepomuk stands near the primary school in the upper part of the square. It creates a clear stylistic contrast with the Romanesque church. For travelers interested in religious architecture, these sites complement one another: a church built and developed over several centuries, and a chapel whose appearance is associated with the Rococo style.

Commemorating the Battle

The Battle of Jankov took place on March 6, 1645, and involved the Swedish army. The monument was erected in 1995 to mark the 350th anniversary of the battle and stands between Jankov and Ratměřice. This places the historical event and the later memorial site in context, while the monument’s location connects it to both municipalities.

The memorial room dedicated to the battle is open by appointment with the municipal office; arrange your visit with the office in advance.

Circular Routes and Nature

The longer loop of the “In the Footsteps of the Battle of Jankov” nature trail is about 14 kilometers long. The shorter loop passes the “U Hartman” viewpoint and is about 9 kilometers long. The difference is approximately five kilometers, making it easy to compare the route lengths when planning your day.

The section from Jankov Square to the Battle of Jankov monument is also accessible to wheelchair users.

The Jankov pond system is home to a rich variety of protected fauna and flora. A nature trail leads to the edge of Džbány-Žebrák Nature Park. These are two specific aspects of the natural setting: the pond system is notable for its protected wildlife and plant life, while the trail connects to the nature park. You can therefore consider the landscape and nature as a reason in their own right to choose Jankov, alongside its architectural and historical attractions.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Teplysovice, Zvěstov, Nemíž, Hvězdonice, Porící Nad Sázavou, Cercany, Děkanovice, Nova Rabyne

For the broader travel overview: Okres Benešov.