Nová Paka brings together geological themes and a varied architectural history. The Městské muzeum Nová Paka houses a collection of almost 4,000 petrological and mineralogical exhibits; historic buildings add further cultural highlights. This offers two distinct ways to explore the area: rocks and fossils on the one hand, architecture and urban history on the other. You can focus on whichever interests you most, rather than treating the topics as a single sightseeing itinerary.

Geology, Minerals and Fossils

Petrology deals with rocks, while mineralogy deals with minerals. The almost 4,000 exhibits thus offer two related but distinct perspectives on geological materials. The Klenotnice has a different focus: its exhibitions cover volcanism, geological development, gemstones and spiritualism. The subject matter therefore ranges from natural materials and geological processes to a distinct cultural-historical theme. If you are interested in rocks, you can explore the collection; if you would like to compare different exhibition topics, the Klenotnice offers a broader selection.

The Paleopark Balka is also part of this subject area, though it has its own context: it was established at a site known for fossil and carnelian finds. An article dated August 20, 2025, also reports that visitors can take part in a fossil excavation. Before your visit, check whether this opportunity is still available rather than planning for it as an activity offered at all times.

Architectural Heritage from the Baroque to the Neo-Renaissance

The Suchardův dům offers a different historical focus. The building was completed in 1896 in the Neo-Renaissance style and houses an exhibition about the work of Stanislav and Vojtěch Sucharda. The style’s name refers to a later revival of Renaissance forms. This makes both the building’s date and the exhibition about the two artists central to a visit—two different points of interest for anyone drawn to architecture and art.

A notable late Baroque landmark in Nová Paka is the Pauline monastery church of Nanebevzetí Panny Marie. A Rosary staircase dating from 1737 leads to the church. The parish church of sv. Mikuláše, meanwhile, is a defining feature of Masarykovo náměstí. The two churches thus offer different highlights: the monastery church is notable for its late Baroque style and staircase, while sv. Mikuláše stands out as a defining building on the square.

Gernatův dům adds another building type: this rare urban-style log house dates from the first half of the 18th century and is a cultural monument. Today, the building is used as a café. Its character thus differs from both the churches and the Suchardův dům, with its exhibition. When choosing a focus, you can distinguish between religious architecture, a historic log house and a house with an exhibition about artists.

Discover more destinations: Sobčice, Podulsi, Vidochov, Záhuby, Ohaveč, Mlázovice, Hořice V Podkrkonoší, Volanice

For the overview of the wider area: Jičín District.