Lochovice lies in the Litavka Valley. Its defining historical features include the four-winged castle built on the site of a former fortress, the Church of St Andrew and the archaeological rampart site of Na Stráži. There are also named options for spending time outdoors: a circular route with a nature trail that can be accessed from Lochovice, as well as walks in nearby forests. You can tailor your stay to your interests in architectural history, archaeology or outdoor activity. When planning, bear in mind that access to the castle is limited and tied to individual cultural events.
Lochovice Castle and Šance
Lochovice Castle is a four-winged late Renaissance building. It was built on the site of a former fortress and later altered; it is protected as a cultural monument. The castle’s northern entrance garden is called Šance and was laid out on the site of the original ramparts. Its architectural form, alterations and connection to the former fortification give the castle a history with several clearly distinct phases.
The castle grounds include a park, gardens and a pond. The castle itself is open to the public only during individual cultural events. Before visiting, check whether such an event is taking place.
Church of St Andrew
The present-day Baroque Church of St Andrew dates from 1654. An earlier Gothic church was dedicated to St Stanislaus and was destroyed during the Thirty Years’ War. The church stands on a grassy area in the western part of Lochovice’s square. South of the presbytery, or chancel, is a sandstone column bearing a statue of the Virgin Mary. The church thus combines a Baroque construction period with the memory of a destroyed Gothic predecessor; the castle and church represent different chapters in the town’s history.
Na Stráži: Archaeological Site by the River
On the southern edge of Lochovice, the archaeological rampart site of Na Stráži lies on a spur above the Litavka’s right bank. It is situated between the river and the road to Lhotka. A spur is a projection of higher ground; the term helps explain the site’s position above the riverbank. The site covers about seven hectares and consisted of three parts. Its location and layout offer a different perspective on local history from the castle’s architectural form and later alterations.
Healing Spring and Walking Routes
Lochovice’s former spa is also part of the town’s history. The healing spring can still be found next to a chapel on the grounds of Domov Lochovice. A chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built at the spring in 1757–1758. This adds another historical theme to the castle, church and rampart site: the town’s former spa history.
There are several ways to enjoy outdoor activities. The Lochovická Třicítka starts in front of Lochovice railway station. The “Z Jinec na Olymp Brd” circular route and nature trail can also be accessed from Lochovice. Nearby forests on Plešivec, Ostrý and in Koncipudy offer pleasant walks. When planning, you can choose from a named starting point, a circular route with a nature trail and walking opportunities in the forests.
Discover more destinations: Nenačovice, Mořinka, Jivina, Zadní Treban, Liteň, Bubovice, Nový Jáchymov, Praskolesy.
For the broader travel overview: Beroun District.
