Malý Bor combines a gently hilly landscape with a local history that can be traced through several tangible landmarks. The settlement lies west of Horažďovice in the broad valley of the Mlýnský potok. Its two-part layout, medieval church art and remains of a fortress provide different points of reference for its history.
The Valley and Two Districts
The town centre lies on a south-facing slope above the stream; Kuchyňka, the second district, is on the other side of the Mlýnský potok. The stream and slope help explain the settlement’s layout: Malý Bor consists of more than just the area around the town centre. The Chapel of St John of Nepomuk stands in Kuchyňka and is one of Malý Bor’s culturally and historically significant sites. Another architectural landmark is the masonry farmhouse No. 17, with its historic black kitchen. The parish also preserves a late Gothic portal in its boundary wall.
Church of St Mary Magdalene
The church stands on a slight rise in Malý Bor and was probably built between 1200 and 1225. On the south side of its tower are two medieval figurative wall paintings depicting archers. A medieval stone baptismal font has also been preserved in the church. The construction date, wall paintings and baptismal font offer different insights into the settlement’s medieval heritage, without reducing the church to a single feature.
The Fortress and Historical Connections
The history of the fortress marks a clear historical turning point: Jan Žižka captured and burned it down on 12 October 1420. Remains of the former fortress complex, including traces of its moat, are visible at the western end of Malý Bor. A building with medieval features stands out near the church; remains and traces of the moat are visible at the fortress site.
Older transport links are also part of the settlement’s history. A historic trade route ran from Bavaria via Železná Ruda and Klatovy into the region, where it split. One branch continued through Malý Bor and nearby Prácheň to České Budějovice. This historical connection extends beyond the settlement’s buildings, linking Malý Bor to an earlier regional trade route.
A bronze hoard discovered in Malý Bor in 1902 adds an archaeological find to the architectural evidence. Part of the hoard is preserved in the Horažďovice Museum. If you would like to include the find in your travel plans, check the museum’s current visiting arrangements before your visit.
Cycling Planning Note
Malý Bor is one of the municipalities affected by the Otavská cyklostezka. As route infrastructure and alignments may change, check the current route before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Kejnice, Branickov, Žichovice, Rejštejn, Plánice, Srní, Maňovice, Křenice.
See the broader travel overview: Klatovy District.
