Biskoupky: Nature and Literary History on the Jihlava

Biskoupky lies on the left bank of the Jihlava and within the Střední Pojihlaví Nature Park. Its landscape is characterized by varied natural areas, forests, rock formations and protected natural sites. In addition to the river and nature, literary history is also part of the town’s character: Vítězslav Nezval was born here. The area’s varied highlights range from protected plant habitats and marked trails to architectural and cultural history.

Natural Areas and Protected Plant Habitats

West of Biskoupky, above the left bank of the Jihlava, lies the Biskoupská hadcová steppe. This protected natural monument is located on serpentinite rock slopes. It was designated in 1979, covers 2.21 hectares and lies at an altitude of 228 to 270 metres. Numerous pasque flowers and other endangered plant species grow on the steppe. This small area is therefore notable for both its distinctive geological conditions and remarkable plant life.

Another natural feature is Biskoupský kopec. Its warm-loving steppe grasslands, home to a population of large-flowered pasque flowers (Pulsatilla grandis) and other specially protected and rare plant and animal species, are protected. On shallow soils, there are also xerothermic grassland communities with scattered junipers. Near Biskoupky, sediment exposures from the Cambrian of Skryje-Týřovice, containing fossils, can also be seen. Nature enthusiasts can explore plants, habitats and geology as distinct themes.

Hiking, Cycling Route and the Jihlava

The area around Biskoupky offers opportunities for hiking along a network of marked trails. The Templářská cycling route mostly follows field and forest tracks or Class III roads. These route types offer different points of reference for planning a trip: hiking is linked to a marked trail network, while the cycling route is described in terms of its specific track and road surfaces.

The stretch of the Jihlava between the Mohelno Reservoir and Hrubšice is used for paddling. It can only be navigated when water is being released from the reservoir. Plan a paddling trip only for times when this condition is met.

Townscape, Nezval and History

A chapel stands on the village square, and Biskoupky is also home to a reconciliation stone dating from the 17th century. Together with the historic buildings, they provide a distinct connection to the town, alongside its natural features. The reconciliation stone marks a clear point in time: it dates from the 17th century, while other local buildings are associated with later uses and stories of everyday life.

Vítězslav Nezval, a poet, writer and translator, was born in Biskoupky on 26 May 1900. He co-founded Poetism and was a leading figure in Czech Surrealism. His birthplace can also be described through its architecture: the single-storey, two-wing building has a T-shaped floor plan. The long main wing has a hipped roof, while the short wing facing the courtyard has a gabled roof; the roof is covered with plain clay tiles. A plaque featuring a bronze portrait of the poet is mounted on the eastern side facade.

Another glimpse into the town’s history is offered by the former one-classroom school building. It was built in 1893 and used as a school until 1967. Biskoupky thus brings together different biographical and architectural connections: the birthplace of a major poet and a building that served as a school for decades.

Nearby are the ruins of Templštýn. The castle was founded at the end of the 13th century and was associated with the Knights Templar in the Middle Ages. This historic site outside Biskoupky complements the local attractions without being conflated with the buildings in the village.

Discover more destinations: Ponětovice, Čučice, Těšany, Boudy, Želešice, Brezina, Hlína, Pravlov

For the broader travel overview: Okres Brno-Venkov.