When you reach Pustina, you encounter a place that only comes into view late: most of the settlement lies below the level of the surrounding terrain and becomes visible only shortly before you arrive. At the same time, Pustina lies in a small hollow at an elevation of 473 metres. Together, these details shape the topographical impression: the elevation describes the site, while the hollow and late visibility explain its position in relation to the surrounding terrain.

Local history and the bell tower

Settlement began towards the end of the 17th century with several farmsteads established as the forest was cleared. The origins of the settlement are therefore closely connected to changes in the landscape. A later date in the town’s history is 1921, when Pustina’s bell tower was built in the form of a chapel, although it has always served a secular purpose. The chapel-like form describes its design, not its function. The chronicle is also part of the town’s history: Josef Vítek wrote it up to 1939. The bell tower and the chronicle offer two different historical reference points: a building and a written record of the town.

Library and literary culture

Pustina has a public library with public internet access. The Čeňek Mlíka Library at Pustina 45 specialises in Czech literature and the book culture of the 19th century. It includes a gallery on the ground floor of a two-storey building with an area of 160 square metres. Its focus on literature sets it apart from the buildings in the town and at Poklona; the gallery adds an exhibition space. The exhibition programme may change. If you plan to visit the Čeňek Mlíka Library, check access in advance.

Walk and views near Poklona

A footpath leads south from Pustina towards Řepníky to a terrain terrace called Poklona, above Střemošice. From there, you can see the Českomoravská vrchovina and the Železné hory. Another viewpoint is at the highest point of Střemošická stráň, near the Poklona column; from there, you can enjoy views of the Skutečsko and Prosečsko granite pluton, the Cretaceous cliffs, and Košumberk Castle. The views therefore differ in focus: from the terrain terrace, two named landscape regions are in view, while Střemošická stráň offers geological features and the castle. This comparison can help you choose a viewpoint based on the landscape you want to see.

The column and choosing what to focus on

On Poklona, south of Pustina, stands a three-sided Baroque column of the Holy Trinity dating from the first half of the 18th century. Its religious dedication distinguishes it from the bell tower, which, despite its chapel-like form, has always served a secular purpose. Two different historical themes emerge: the column’s Baroque religious dedication and the secular purpose of the chapel-shaped tower. For planning your trip, the town’s history and literary culture contrast with the landscape and views around Poklona. Choose your focus based on which of these themes you would like to shape your stay.

Discover more destinations: Cervená Voda, Vračovice-Orlov, Kameničná, Česká Třebová, Hrušová, Podlesí, Kunvald V Cechách, Chocen

For the broader travel overview: Okres Ústí Nad Orlicí.