Butoves can be discovered from two different perspectives: its open rolling hills with forests and ponds, and its local history, with early references dating back to the 14th century. The village lies in the southeastern, relatively flat part of the Jičín Uplands; the varied surrounding landscape is about 250 to 290 metres above sea level.

Forests, Water and Nature Watching

The forests lie in different directions: at the southern edge of Butoves, meadows and fields give way directly to the Dubový (Doubí) forest. To the north lie the mixed forest of Tuřský les and the Holubí (Holubův) forest; to the west, the Runšov forest stretches beyond the fields. Open areas and several forests in different locations thus meet here.

There are three named forest ponds in the Butoves area: Hluboký, Strašidlo and Náklaďák. Náklaďák was formerly also called Nákladní or Nakládka. Hluboký Pond lies between the municipalities of Kovač, Butoves and Třtěnice. In 2008, the “Kovačské Modré Žáby” project was carried out there to conserve the population of the rare agile frog. On walks in the area throughout the year, you can observe numerous birds of prey; sightings vary by season. Check water conditions and access to the ponds locally.

Cycling Through Butoves

The “Za Rumcjasem” cycle route runs from Třtěnice through Butoves and onward to Tuř. It is suitable for road or trekking bikes and follows paved roads. Check the route details before setting out; surface conditions may change. This provides a specific cycling option alongside walks and nature watching in the surrounding area.

Local History in Several Stages

An early historical reference is the “Nová Lhota” farmstead, founded in 1392 by the owners of the Veliš estate. The first written mention of the municipality dates from 1395. The present-day name “Butoves” was adopted for the rebuilt village in 1773. The year 1784 is given as the founding year of the modern municipality. These dates mark different milestones: the founding of the farmstead, the first mention, the adoption of the name, and the stated beginning of the modern municipality.

The railway also played a part in the development of the village. On 17 December 1871, the station in the municipality of Butoves was built and opened along with the branch line of the Austrian Northwestern Railway (ÖNWB) from Ostroměř to Jičín. A steam sawmill was built next to the station in 1888.

The Tyl amateur theatre group is part of the area’s cultural history. On 6 January 1888, Antonín Zajíc, Josef Lemberk and František Šoltys decided to found the group. Its first play was performed in Butoves on 16 December 1888. Between 1895 and 1921, the Tyl amateur theatre group staged a total of 20 plays there; it ceased operating in 1956.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Dětenice, Radim, Hořice V Podkrkonoší, Jicineves, Lískovice, Nova Paka, Češov, Vitiněves.

To the main travel overview: Jičín District.