Trhový Štěpánov offers several ways to explore: traces of the town’s history, a Jewish cemetery, a church with Gothic wall paintings and the paved cycling route 8243. The Na Pasece observation tower and a nature trail in a former quarry also give the area a landscape perspective. When planning your visit, you can decide whether to focus on architectural history, a route for cyclists and inline skaters, or the history of the landscape.

History in Masonry and Paintings

Trhový Štěpánov was granted town status in 1290 by Bishop Tobiáš of Bechyně. Remains of the walls and a stone from the castle gate, dating from 1668, are all that survive of the former Štěpánov Castle. Both details reach far back into the town’s history, although the former castle does not survive as a complete structure.

The Church of St. Bartholomew adds several architectural layers to this historical perspective. It dates from after the mid-14th century and features Neo-Gothic alterations. Its distinctive details include Gothic wall paintings depicting busts of prophets in medallions. The grounds around the church are also designed: they include a cemetery wall with ornate gates and a niche chapel. The architectural history and individual features can be viewed here as interconnected aspects of a church complex.

Jewish Cemetery and Museum

The Jewish cemetery in Trhový Štěpánov is a protected, very elongated site. A stone perimeter wall with an entrance house encloses the grounds; the oldest gravestones date from the early 18th century. The cemetery is freely accessible. Check access information before your visit so you can take this practical condition into account when planning.

The Muzeum Štěpánovska is housed in a building considered one of the oldest in Trhový Štěpánov. Visits are possible by prior telephone arrangement. Be sure to arrange your visit by phone before travelling. The history of the museum also includes the Galerie Josefa Tříška: it was moved to the museum in 2012 and opened to the public on 23 June. This chronology is a distinct part of the museum’s history.

Paseka: Observation Tower and Quarry History

The Na Pasece observation tower stands on Paseka Hill at an elevation of 516 metres, about one kilometre northwest of Trhový Štěpánov. Its approximate distance from the town and its hilltop location help put the tower in context. The hill is also home to a recreational area in a former quarry. A nature trail there explores the history of quarrying and uranium mining. In this way, the landscape is connected with its history of use, while the observation tower and nature trail each have a different focus.

Cycling Route and Local Wine Harvest Festival

The paved cycling route 8243 connects Trhový Štěpánov with Tehov via the Kladruby Rehabilitation Institute. It is suitable for wheelchair users, cyclists and inline skaters. The route and the explicitly named user groups provide a practical basis if you want to include a route for one of these modes of travel in your stay.

The Štěpánovské vinobraní is another local highlight: this popular wine harvest festival is taking place for another year. It adds a local celebration to the architectural and landscape themes. The different highlights give you a choice of ways to discover Trhový Štěpánov, without combining the individual places or activities into a set route.

Discover more destinations: Křivsoudov, Chrást Nad Sázavou, Zlenice, Krňany, Pavlovice, Netvorice, Olbramovice, Merin.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Benešov.