Hradčany’s character is shaped by two very different features: protected nature at Žehuňsko–Báň and traces of medieval fortifications. The details range from bird species and slope vegetation to ditches and ramparts.
Nature between ponds and white slopes
The Žehuňský rybník–Obora Kněžičky Special Protection Area also includes the cadastral area of Hradčany u Žehuně. It is considered a breeding area for 131 bird species and a migration area for waterbirds and birds of prey. The information on its importance for breeding is based on AOPK bird records from 1996 to 2002.
The Žehuňsko landscape includes forests on uplands, steep white slopes with thermophilous oak woods, and wetland habitats around ponds. The Žehuňsko–Báň Natural Monument lies in Hradčany on a south-facing slope. It covers 10.58 hectares at an elevation of 240 to 270 metres and was placed under protection on 29 December 1972.
The site includes a former orchard and a former pasture. Today, it is home to, among other things, shrub-rich forest-steppe, a white slope with exposed bedrock, and young forests of downy oak. The slope offers views of the landscape of the middle Elbe region. In the Žehuňsko area, well-preserved thermophilous oak woods are home to the purple orchid and other notable plants: dittany, blue lithospermum, Micheli’s sedge and the white helleborine. Their seasonal visibility varies.
Earthworks and traces of history
A restored memorial to the fallen of the First World War stands in Hradčany. Made of yellow sandstone, it features a figurative relief.
Stará Báň is the surviving earthwork of a medieval fortification dating from around the 14th century, associated with the local landed gentry. Its existence is documented in 1497; by 1550, the site was described as abandoned. The horseshoe-shaped summit platform measures approximately 26 × 19 metres and is protected on three sides by a prominent ditch. An outer rampart supplements the fortification on the south and east sides, reaching a height of up to three metres.
The hill of Zámeček is also a well-preserved earth mound: it is conical, surrounded by a circular ditch and located near a former forester’s lodge. The Zámeček archaeological site includes the remains of a medieval castle complex that no longer exists, as well as the lost medieval village of Mastnice.
Exploring by bike
Those wishing to include cycling in their plans can consider a Class III cycling route. It passes through Hradčany u Žehuně and continues via Dlouhopolsko, Opočnice, Běrunice, Městec Králové and Činěves. This sequence of place names provides a specific reference point for route selection, without prescribing a fixed itinerary for exploring the natural and historical sites.
Stay overnight in Bunker UŽ6
A reservation is required for Bunker UŽ6; its stated sleeping capacity is three people. The bunker is accessible by car, and up to four cars can park on the premises. As availability and operating conditions may change, check reservation and travel information before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Bristvi, Dvory, Chroustov, Choťánky, Křečkov, Kněžice, Dobšice, Zvěřínek.
For the wider travel overview: Nymburk District.
