Discover Štěpkov

If you are looking for a destination with a clear cultural and historical focus, Štěpkov offers several specific points of interest: the Rotunda of St Wenceslas, the history of the former fortress and a marked cycle route that passes through the planning area. These topics can be considered separately when planning your visit: the rotunda shapes the village’s architectural character, while the fortress and archaeological classification relate to its older history. The cycle route adds a distinct connection to cycling to the character of the village.

The Rotunda of St Wenceslas and its surroundings

The Chapel-Rotunda of St Wenceslas is designated a prominent architectural landmark in Štěpkov. It was built from rubble stone in the 12th century; the rotunda later received a Baroque brick dome. Thus, the building brings together an early construction date and a later architectural addition. The materials also differ: rubble stone belongs to the original structure, while brick was used for the later dome. If you are interested in architecture, this contrast offers a specific point of reference for understanding the village’s building history.

The rotunda is protected as a cultural monument; its register number is 35731/7-3080. Distinct from this is the group of houses around the rotunda, which is designated a valuable urban ensemble. The two designations refer to different scales: on the one hand, the individual protected building, and on the other, the valuable urban group of surrounding houses. The building and the ensemble are both part of Štěpkov’s cultural and historical profile, but their respective classifications do not mean the same thing.

Fortress history and archaeological classification

Written sources mention the Štěpkov fortress between 1582 and 1629; in 1589, it is described as abandoned. These dates provide a timeframe for the recorded history of the fortress and also document a specific statement about its condition in 1589. The fortress therefore adds a different historical point of reference to the rotunda’s architectural history.

The fortress stood on the site of today’s ZD. A one-storey building in the ZD complex is considered its successor. The former site and the identification of the later building should be distinguished: the location of the fortress is specified, while the one-storey building is considered its successor.

The fortress grounds are recorded as a Category ÚAN I archaeological area; the classification was updated in 2023. The classification is based on documented finds or a well-founded assumption that finds are present. This archaeological designation provides a distinct perspective on the grounds, complementing the written history of the fortress.

Getting around and the cycle route

Road II/151 runs from west to east through the central part of Štěpkov and provides direct access to the adjacent buildings. Traffic conditions may change. Bus stops are also located in the central part of the village. If you are planning a bus journey, check the current service frequency before travelling; the location of the stops and the timetable are separate practical considerations.

For cyclists, the marked cycle route 5104 Třebíč–Jemnice is another specific point of interest: it runs through the Štěpkov planning area. Check the current route signage before setting out. The route offers a different way to plan your visit than the local history of the rotunda and fortress: here, the focus is on a named cycle connection, while there it is on the architectural and archaeological classification of the village.

Discover more destinations: Lhánice, Rudíkov, Hroznatín, Valeč, Náměšť Nad Oslavou, Sedlec, Hluboké, Komárovice.

For the broader travel overview: Třebíč District.