Velké Petrovice can be explored through several layers of history: a settlement probably founded in the Middle Ages, the Battle of the Metuje Valley, and nearby Vlčinec rocky spur, with traces of a castle and exposed rock formations. History and landscape give your stay a clear focus, while cycling and hiking routes offer different perspectives on the surrounding area.

Local History and the Battle in the Metuje Valley

Petrovice was probably founded in the late 13th century by the Lords of Dubá. This tentative date indicates when the settlement came into being, while a later event is associated with a specific year: in 1420, a battle between Catholic Silesians and Hussites took place in the Metuje Valley near Petrovice. A reported 250 Hussites were killed in the battle.

The founding and the battle are two distinct historical reference points. The former places the presumed origins of Petrovice in time; the latter links the Metuje Valley with the clashes between the parties mentioned. The reported figure of 250 dead refers to the battle of 1420.

Vlčinec: Rock Formation and Medieval Traces

Near Petrovice lies Vlčinec, a high, narrow rocky spur above a meander in the Metuje. A meander is a bend in a river; here, the distinctive rock formation is therefore directly connected to the course of the river. The rocky spur has exposed chalk and marlstone rock faces between 5 and 8 metres high.

The rock also holds a long history: the marlstone at Vlčinec contains fossil remains of animals from the Cretaceous sea. These traces of a much older natural history complement the medieval associations of the surrounding area. For travellers interested in both geology and historic sites, two distinct subjects converge here in the same rock formation.

Traces of the medieval castle of Vlčinec can be found at the southern end of the rocky spur. The ring ditches and ramparts of the former watch castle are still visible. The geological features of the spur and its surviving fortifications thus stand side by side: the site can be understood through both its rock faces and fossils and its medieval past.

Cycling, Hiking, and Connections

On a cycling trip in Kladské Pomezí, you can enjoy beautiful views from the road above Velké Petrovice. This offers a different way to experience the surrounding area than exploring the specific rock and castle traces at Vlčinec. If you are planning a cycling trip, check current trail conditions in advance.

A hiking route leads from Teplice nad Metují via Skály, Čáp, and Stárkov to Velké Petrovice. It reaches the Velké Petrovice bus stop and then continues to Police nad Metují railway station. This is a specific sequence of hiking stops and transport points. Check the timetables if you plan to use the bus and train connection.

There is also a railway tunnel beneath the rocky massif on which Petrovice extends. It is just under 300 metres long. This feature adds another specific point of reference to the description of the settlement’s location in relation to the massif: Petrovice extends above it, while the tunnel runs beneath it.

Discover more destinations: Chlivce, Bukovice, Vysoká Srbská, Říkov, Hronov, Nový Ples, Rasošky, Starkov

Back to the regional travel overview: Okres Náchod.