Kotovice brings together early local history, distinctive architectural heritage and natural features. The village lies on the western edge of the Plzeň Basin, at an elevation of about 365 to 385 metres above sea level. In Záluží near Kotovice, the former monastic manor farm Dvůr Gigant adds to the picture of the area’s architectural heritage, while a pond and a protected lime tree provide their own landscape highlights. This makes it possible to shape a stay around village history and the natural surroundings.
Village green and historic buildings
Kotovice was first mentioned in 1272, in connection with Chotěšov Monastery, to which the village belonged at the time. A specific spatial perspective is offered by rural farmstead No. 10: it is located at the eastern edge of the southern side of the irregular village green. A village green is a shared public space or open area in a village; the farmstead’s precise location places it within the structure of the village. Its façade has been preserved, and the farmstead remains protected as a historic monument. This one example brings together the village layout, historic buildings and protected status.
Two different school histories
The German school in Kotovice opened in 1898 and closed in 1945. A different school history concerns the former Czech minority school: it was built after 1918 for children from the surrounding Czech villages. The two histories differ in more than just their dates. While the years mark the beginning and end of the German school’s operation, the history of the Czech school’s construction also identifies the intended pupils from the surrounding area.
Dvůr Gigant manor farm
Dvůr Gigant in Záluží near Kotovice is a cultural monument. It was originally established as a monastic manor farm and rebuilt by 1662. This adds the history of a manor farm with monastic origins to the story of the village layout and its schools. A dated event is also associated with the site: in 2025, the traditional Advent charity evening at Dvůr Gigant reached its 22nd edition. If an event is important to your trip, check the relevant date before making plans.
Protected lime tree and bodies of water
A protected large-leaved lime tree stands in front of house No. 35 near Dvůr Gigant. It is about 360 years old and almost 34 metres tall. The age gives an approximate indication, while the height conveys its scale.
Dvorský Pond is 500 metres west of Dvůr Gigant, covers four hectares of water and is used for recreation and sports. On the southern side of Záluží, there is also a body of water created when a sandstone quarry flooded; it is used for fish farming and recreation. For this body of water, its origins and uses are the main points of interest; in the case of Dvorský Pond, its precise location in relation to the manor farm and the size of its water surface are also given. The places described thus offer different starting points for a stay focused on cultural heritage and the landscape.
Discover more destinations: Štěnovice, Borovno, Soběkury, Kasejovice, Zinkovy, Robčice, Oselce, Vlčí
For the regional travel overview: Plzeň-Jih.
