Tuklaty has a rich history, from its bell tower, originally built as a fortified stronghold, to its Baroque church and local school history preserved in the museum. In spring, there is also a natural highlight: a scenic walk is possible along the meanders of the Výmola. The town’s cultural character is shaped by its architectural and educational history, while the walk offers a seasonal addition.

Architectural history from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period

The bell tower in Tuklaty was originally a fortified stronghold built in the 14th century and was remodelled in the Baroque style in the 17th century. In 1819, the tower served František Ignác Kasián Halaška during the first historical survey of Czech municipalities and towns; the mathematician, physicist and astronomer used a marine sextant for this work. The building’s history is therefore also linked to a specific chapter in the history of science.

The history of the bells includes two dated castings: one bell was cast in 1506 by the bell-founder Bartoloměj of Prague, and a second in 1624 by Jakub Mělnický in Mladá Boleslav. These dates and names form a distinct historical thread in the story of the tower.

The present-day Church of the Nativity of St John the Baptist is a Baroque building constructed after 1688 on the site of a church documented as far back as the 14th century. The earlier church and the current building thus represent different periods at the same location. The present-day church underwent extensive reconstruction after 1989.

The rectory was built in 1729 by the priest Václav Pečený; Duchess Marie Terezie Savojská of the House of Liechtenstein financed the construction costs. The complex has a central building with wings arranged in the shape of a St Andrew’s cross. Its construction date and floor plan give the rectory its own architectural history alongside that of the tower and church.

School history in the former rectory

The school museum is housed in the former rectory. It displays exhibits from the local school and local residents, documenting almost three centuries of local educational history. A timeline starts in 1730 and is supplemented by photographs of school chronicles. These chronicles have been kept in Tuklaty since 1855. The museum thus complements the architectural history with a look at the school and local memories.

Stream, river and a spring walk

Tuklaty lies on the southern edge of the Polabská nížina, on the Tuklatský potok. Beyond Tlustovousy, the stream flows into the Výmola. The two waterways therefore serve different purposes in describing the area: the Tuklatský potok helps locate Tuklaty, while the Výmola is a landmark for the walk along its meanders. This walk is possible in spring and adds a seasonal natural highlight to the area’s cultural and historical focus.

If you are planning a stay, you can choose between exploring the town’s history and enjoying a spring walk, depending on your interests. You can also look into travelling by train: Tuklaty is on the Praha–Kolín railway line. Check current connections before making plans.

Discover more destinations: Zalešany, Grunta, Ratbor, Žiželice, Pašinka, Český Brod, Přišimasy, Tuchoraz

For the wider travel overview: Okres Kolín.