Cestice: Architectural History, Kalvárie and Beekeeping

Cestice lies west of Volyně, above the valley of the Peklov stream and in the Šumavské podlesí landscape. Those interested in cultural history will find a range of architectural styles and periods in the town: a church tower dating from the early 13th century, an early Baroque château, and the listed Kalvárie pilgrimage site. The picture is rounded out by a regional museum, the Včelí stezka, and Machův včelín Museum in Krušlov, dedicated to beekeeper Josef Mach. You can tailor your visits to architecture, regional history, or beekeeping.

Church, Château and Kalvárie

The tower of Kostel Stětí Sv. Jana Křtitele church dates from the early 13th century. The later history of other parts of the building is distinct: the eastern section from the triumphal arch, as well as the presbytery and choir, were remodeled in the Early Gothic style. The wooden Baroque high altar offers a different accent. The carver Jan Hammer created it in 1737. The church's different architectural features and dates show that its history cannot be reduced to a single period of construction.

Zámek Čestice is an early Baroque building from the first half of the 17th century, standing on the site of a former fortress. In front of the château is a stone Renaissance fountain, built between 1815 and 1827. The regional museum in the château displays old agricultural tools and historical objects associated with Cestice. The château, fountain, and museum each offer a different focus: architectural history, a later-added stone feature, and evidence of local life.

Above Cestice lies the listed Kalvárie pilgrimage site, a group of buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Its central chapel is designed in the Italian Renaissance style. The site also includes four Baroque niche chapels with images of the Passion. A wooden hermitage stands on the western slope of the hill. The site thus brings together several distinct architectural forms: the central chapel, the chapels with images, and the more simply styled building on the slope.

Beekeeping and the Včelí stezka

The Včelí stezka starts above Cestice at a wayside cross on the route toward Kobylka. The route from Cestice to Krušlov is about 5 km long. Fourteen stops with carved signs provide information about the life of the honeybee. Its theme is clear all along the trail: the signs link a route between the two places to facts about bees.

In Krušlov, Machův včelín is dedicated to the legacy of Josef Mach and to beekeeping. The museum contains more than 80 carvings and artistically decorated beehives; craftsmanship and the subject of bees go hand in hand here. Groups of four or more can arrange a guided tour by phone in advance outside opening hours. Recurring events include the traditional “Ukončení sezóny” on the last Sunday in October. The operator, Krušlovský včelín z.s., also runs beekeeping courses. As programs and course offerings may change, check the relevant dates before your trip.

More Places to Visit in Cestice

If you are interested in farm animals, Statek U Pichců can be visited by prior telephone arrangement; you can see various farm animals there. Arranging the visit by phone in advance is part of the experience. A farm visit and the honeybee trail thus complement the historical sites with two different connections to nature and agriculture.

Discover more destinations: Milčice, Bavorov, Chobot, Zahorčice, Kváskovice, Rovná, Třebohostice, Pohorovice

See the regional travel overview: Okres Strakonice.