Kňovice: Castle History and Trails

Kňovice combines the history of a castle with architectural and historical traces from different eras. The former fortress, the Baroque castle and its Neo-Gothic redesign mark distinct stages. There is also a chapel in the castle park, archaeological evidence of early settlement and a local history that includes the Second World War. A cycle route and a yellow-marked hiking trail are also useful points of reference when planning your trip.

Castle and Park in Kňovice

The Kňovice Castle grounds are located in the village farmstead. The Baroque castle was built in the period following the Battle of White Mountain. The former Kňovice fortress is its predecessor site and was first mentioned in 1542. In the 19th century, a Neo-Gothic redesign gave the castle its present appearance. Neo-Gothic describes a later style that draws on Gothic forms. The construction of the Baroque castle and the later change to its appearance can therefore be understood as two distinct historical stages.

The Baroque Chapel of St. Joseph, built in 1729–1731, stands in the castle park, opposite the south façade of the castle. The castle park is enclosed by a stone wall with two gates. The contrast makes two architectural periods visible: the chapel is Baroque, while the castle’s present appearance is shaped by its Neo-Gothic redesign.

Historical Traces from Early Times to the 20th Century

Kňovice was also shaped by the events of the Second World War. On 31 October 1943, the village was forcibly incorporated into the Waffen-SS Benešov military training area; after 1945, residents returned to their homes. This sequence reveals a different side of local history from the castle’s development: it tells of the forced upheaval experienced by the community and the residents’ return.

Two stone flat axes found in Kňovice are considered evidence that the area was settled as early as pre-Slavic times. This extends the historical perspective well beyond the history of the fortress and castle. The finds add an archaeological dimension to the architectural history.

Another cultural link connects Kňovice with Josef Mánes. His portrait “Josefína” is said to depict his maid Františka “Fanynka” Šťovíčková, who was born in Kňovice. Thus, alongside the buildings, a person born in Kňovice also comes into view; the identification of the portrait is qualified as alleged.

Cycling and Hiking

For cyclists, Cycle Route 8135 is a specific point of reference: it runs from Příčov through Kňovice to a junction near Nová Ves. Check the signs locally when planning your route. A yellow-marked hiking trail also passes through Kňovice; check the current markings locally as well. The two routes offer different points of reference for planning: Příčov and the junction near Nová Ves are named for the cycle route, while the yellow markings identify the hiking trail.

Discover more destinations: Čím, Obecnice, Vystrkov, Radíč, Drahlín, Petrovice, Velká Lečice, Zduchovice

Return to the main travel overview: Příbram District.