Staré Smrkovice can be understood through several specific themes: traces of a former fortress, the local processing of chicory, and a stretch of river within the European Site of Community Importance “Javorka a Cidlina - Sběř”. Local history, crafts and nature conservation thus stand side by side as distinct focal points.

Fortress Traces and Local History

Written records of the former fortress date from 1347. This year refers to the records, not the construction date of the structure. Remains of the ditches can still be seen at the fortress site on the edge of present-day Staré Smrkovice; no structural remains have survived. Those interested in historic fortifications will therefore find the remains of ditches rather than a preserved fortress building.

The fortress stood on the right bank of the Javorka. Its defensive ramparts were supplied with water from the river. The riverside location was therefore also important to the fortification: the water served the defensive ramparts. Together with the visible remains of the ditches, the site can thus be understood in terms of its location and defensive design.

A later historical date is that of the school in Staré Smrkovice, built in 1861. The written records of the former fortress and the school's construction date refer to different periods in the history of the village. Comparing the two dates helps avoid mistaking the 1347 record for a construction date and highlights the school as another historical feature of the village.

Chicory and Crafts

At the historic “Cikoria” company in Staré Smrkovice, 3,404 q of chicory and 234 q of sugar beet were dried.

A chicory drying plant still stands in Staré Smrkovice; it is also known as a chicory coffee roastery. Three basket weavers were part of the historic craft tradition in Staré Smrkovice. Alongside the drying of agricultural produce, basket weaving thus represents a distinct craft tradition.

The Javorka and Nature Conservation

The European Site of Community Importance “Javorka a Cidlina - Sběř” includes a stretch of river in Staré Smrkovice. It is a habitat for the Dusky Large Blue butterfly (Maculinea nausithous) and the thick-shelled river mussel (Unio crassus). Part of the river mussel population was relocated to the Javorka channel near Staré Smrkovice.

The site's main channel is partly regulated and partly natural; the surrounding area includes extensively managed wet meadows. Nature conservation here therefore concerns both the river and the wet meadows, as well as the species mentioned. If you are planning a visit specifically because of one of these species, check its current status and presence using up-to-date nature conservation information before making a specialist visit.

Practical Note for Groups

The local municipal pub offers short-term rental of its adjoining rooms and hall. If you plan to use these rooms, confirm availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Kopidlno, Slatiny, Svatojanský Újezd, Ohařice, Slavhostice, Nemyčeves, Bukvice, Boháňka.

Back to the broader travel overview: Jičín District.