Less than a kilometre from Doubravčice, the hillfort lies in the woods above the Šembera. It is considered one of the oldest Slavic fortified settlements in Bohemia. Šember Castle was built on the site in 1357, bringing together early Slavic and medieval traces in a striking landscape.
Hillfort and Medieval Traces
The hillfort stands on a spur up to 60 metres high, protected by steep slopes. It is accessible only from the south; the terrain can affect access. Masonry remains of the fortification survive along the eastern wall of Šember Castle. Other features include depressions that indicate cellars, remains of medieval building walls, the site of a half-timbered palace and ramparts. These varied traces give the site a history that extends beyond the castle walls.
The village’s history can also be dated: the first documented mention of Doubravčice appears in a deed of gift by John of Luxembourg. It was issued in Tuhošť (Domažlice) on 25 August 1331. The written record of the village therefore dates back to the 14th century.
Village History and Landscape
In Dolánky, an abandoned medieval village in the eastern part of the Doubravčice cadastral area, traces of the past lie in a valley with a small tributary of the Šembera. The archaeological remains include a castle site, an abandoned pond with a dam, a large farmstead and several surviving medieval roads. Together, these features reveal different aspects of earlier settlement, from the village and its roads to the use of the land.
In the village itself, the original layout of the upper village square has been preserved, with several well-preserved rural buildings. For a different view of the area, head to Doubravčice’s highest point by the water tower. It lies where Pod Vodárnou and Nad Lomem streets meet and offers wide-ranging views of the surroundings.
Trails on Foot, by Bike and on the Water
Several marked trails offer different routes for walking. A red hiking trail runs along the Šembera corridor; below Tuchoraz, it is complemented by the “Zahrady” nature trail. Yellow and green hiking trails pass through Doubravčice. Below the village, they meet the red trail in the Šembera valley. As trail markings can change, check the signs on site before choosing a route.
Two restored farm tracks offer their own distinctive features. “U hruštičky” is planted with cherry and rowan trees, as well as a pear tree. “Osičiny (Jabloň)” lies at the edge of the village towards Mukařov and was restored in 2013. Fruit trees and shrubs grow there. The descriptions mainly differ in the trees mentioned and the location of each track.
Doubravčice is also part of a network of marked cycling routes. A paddling trip on the Šembera depends more on the water level: the river is navigable almost year-round when the water is a little higher, but conditions are better when the ponds are drained. Sections of overgrown riverbed and the need to carry boats around trees make progress slow. Check water conditions before setting out on a paddling trip.
Facilities in the Village
The multifunctional playground and sports ground offer facilities for basketball, volleyball, nohejbal and floorball, as well as fitness equipment for adults. As the facilities may change, it is advisable to check the current conditions before visiting.
Doubravčická hospoda has 60 seats and a garden with a children’s playground. It serves hot meals and a daily menu. As opening hours and menu details can change, check that it is open and review the menu before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Nova Ves I, Veltruby, Býchory, Libodřice, Ratbor, Kolín, Svojšice, Červené Pečky
See the overview of the wider area: Kolín District.
