The burial mound necropolis in Zderaz Forest is classified as ÚAN I and designated an important archaeological site. Biřkov’s local history also includes the former fortress and the Chapel of St John of Nepomuk, dating from the late 18th century. A Halloweenská stezka was a different, activity-focused aspect of the place.

Burial mound necropolis in Zderaz Forest

The burial mound necropolis, also known as Na Zderaze, lies within the cadastral area of Biřkov, southwest of the municipality’s reservoir. The cadastral designation and the location in relation to the reservoir are two spatial references: one names the area, while the other indicates direction. During the re-identification, 46 objects were recorded. It is not entirely certain whether all of them should be interpreted as burial mounds. The figure therefore refers to recorded objects, not to 46 definitively confirmed mounds. Larger burial mounds reach about two metres in height and measure twelve to fifteen metres in diameter. Their diameter is considerably greater than their height. These measurements refer to larger burial mounds, not necessarily to all 46 objects. The figures thus answer different questions: 46 objects were recorded; the height and diameter describe larger burial mounds.

Fortress, moat and chapel

A pond at the former Biřkov fortress supplied water to its moat. The still-visible moat lies beneath the road to Vřeskovice; the area is still called Na Tvrzi. Here you will find two different local references: a visible trace of the former structure and a name that continues to be used for the area. The Chapel of St John of Nepomuk in Biřkov dates from the late 18th century. Compared with the fortress, its specific historical reference is its date, while for the fortress the focus is on the relationship between the pond and the moat. This offers different ways to explore local history: the former function of a structure, a visible trace and a building whose period has been established.

A different activity: the Halloweenská stezka

The Halloweenská stezka was a Halloween experience trail offered in Biřkov. It was described as an easy route for young and old alike. Its tasks were adapted for different age groups, with children completing them at individual stations. The simple route format and age-specific tasks describe two aspects of the offering. This sets the stezka apart from the archaeological and architectural themes: the focus here was a route with specific tasks. For travellers weighing up different ways to experience a place, this is a distinct activity-focused option.

Which focus suits your trip?

To decide whether Biřkov is right for your stay, the differences between its themes are more useful than a simple list of sights. The necropolis offers an archaeological focus with details about its location and dimensions; the fortress is about its function and visible moat, while the chapel is distinguished by its date. The Halloweenská stezka was a separate route format.

Discover more destinations: Křenice, Dlouhá Ves U Susice, Kvášňovice, Besiny, Soběšice, Lesisov, Lomec, Horní Staňkov.

Back to the wider travel overview: Klatovy District.