Kejnice combines an early settlement history with an annual Marian pilgrimage and connections to the landscape of the Šumava. The original wooden settlement associated with Kejnice was located on Stráž, southeast of today’s village. Clearly visible remains of terraced fields have been identified on Stráž. Medieval and early modern ceramic fragments were found beside a stream. Together, these traces raise different questions about the history of the place: its former settlement site, how the land was used, and finds from different periods.
History, Pilgrimage and Chapel
A deed of donation dated 1045 is associated with Kejnice’s history: according to the deed, the village was donated to Břevnov Monastery; the deed is now considered a forgery. Another historical reference comes from 1417. After Frymburk Castle was destroyed, Kejnice was assigned to Rabí Castle. Thus, an early account of a donation and a later affiliation belong to different chapters of the village’s history.
The Marian pilgrimage in Kejnice was revived in 1939 and has been celebrated annually ever since. If you are planning your trip around this occasion, check the exact dates and programme locally. Another religious trace is the Chapel of the Virgin Mary with its memorial cross, which is listed as an immovable cultural monument. Inside are a folk Baroque altar and niches containing statues of Saint Sebastian and a bishop. The pilgrimage offers a point of reference for the area’s religious history; the chapel adds to it with its furnishings.
Landscape and Places to Visit
Kejnice is part of the Šumava, which is designated as a protected landscape area. The surrounding Bavorovská pahorkatina hills offer wide views of the Šumava Mountains and the inland region. The Otava flows near Kejnice; the river has long been one of the reasons the region was settled. Some of the Kejnice ponds are destinations for local outings and places for walks. These connections are distinct: the views open up the wider landscape, the Otava links the area to its settlement history, and the ponds offer additional places for walks and outings.
Rabí Castle lies nearby, about ten kilometres from Kejnice. It is considered the largest castle ruin complex in Bohemia. Rabí already features in Kejnice’s history as the castle to which the village was assigned after Frymburk was destroyed in 1417; it is also a destination in the surrounding area. Check current route information before making specific plans.
Plan Your Stay and Accommodation
When looking for a holiday apartment in Kejnice, it helps to decide on the focus of your trip first. Those interested in local history will find different points of interest at Stráž, in the account of the donation, and at the chapel. If you are travelling for the Marian pilgrimage, check the dates and programme locally. If you are planning outings, you can consider the ponds and Rabí as separate destinations; check the current route to Rabí. The views and the Otava add landscape and settlement history to the options. First decide on the occasion for your trip and the places you would like to visit, then set your travel dates to search for a holiday apartment.
Discover more destinations: Horská Kvilda, Bolešiny, Kolinec, Svata Katerina, Branickov, Nemilkov, Nezamyslice, Kašperské Hory.
For the wider travel overview: Okres Klatovy.
