Český Brod offers several different themes for a culture- and history-focused stay: the architectural history of Kostel sv. Gotharda, exhibitions at the Podlipanské Museum and the Údolím Šembery nature trail. You can tailor your trip more towards architecture and exhibitions, or set aside time for a longer hike as well. The right mix also depends on whether you would rather explore historical building phases or spend time outdoors.

Architectural history at Kostel sv. Gotharda

Kostel sv. Gotharda began as a single-nave Romanesque church dating from the mid-12th century. The building acquired its present-day Baroque appearance in a renovation carried out between 1765 and 1772, based on a design by Prague architect Jan Josef Wirch. The later form did not completely replace the older parts, however: despite historicist alterations, most of the medieval structures, architectural elements and stonework have been preserved. These include a late Gothic roof truss. Those interested in architectural history can therefore take in both the Baroque renovation and traces of earlier building phases.

The bell tower at Kostel sv. Gotharda is a distinct part of this history. It was built from sandstone blocks in the second half of the 16th century as a Renaissance tower. The tower is currently closed to the public. The church interior is occasionally open, but there are no fixed visiting hours. If you are planning a visit, check in advance whether it is scheduled to be open.

Exhibitions and traces of the city’s history

The exhibitions at the Podlipanské Museum cover the Battle of Lipany, which took place on May 30, 1434, as well as the Slavic hillforts in Pošembeří. The museum also holds several seasonal exhibitions and accompanying programs each year. As individual events may change, it is worth checking the current schedule before your trip. The two exhibition topics offer different historical perspectives: a specific event from the 15th century on the one hand, and early fortifications in the region on the other.

The original Stará radnice (Old Town Hall) is another historical landmark: its building is first mentioned in 1402. Since 1998, Galerie Šatlava has served as a small exhibition space. There are also historic cellar complexes beneath Český Brod, probably built in the 14th century. The date is tentative; the complexes are thought to date from this period. Together, these places and themes offer reasons to make your stay about more than just one architectural history or era.

Plan a longer hike

If you would also like to explore on foot alongside the cultural sights, the Údolím Šembery nature trail offers a specific route option. Its more challenging route is about 11 kilometers long and has 12 stops. The trail’s information board is by the brewery grounds on Tuchorazská Street in Český Brod. As the trail markers may change, it is a good idea to check the signage before setting off.

When choosing a hotel in Český Brod, you can start by considering what you would like your stay to focus on: the preserved medieval elements and Baroque renovation of Kostel sv. Gotharda, the exhibitions or the more challenging hiking route. This way, you can tailor your search to the experiences that genuinely interest you, rather than assuming you will spend the same amount of time at every stop.

Discover more destinations:

Jestřabí Lhota, Žehuň, Kšely, Vitice, Němčice, Tři Dvory, Plaňany, Kouřim

For the overview of the wider region: Okres Kolín.