Podolí I can be explored through several clearly defined themes: the construction of Podolský Bridge, the history of the Podolsko ferry and the local memory of the end of the Second World War. There is also the museum with its photo exhibition and the annual pilgrimage to the Chapel of Panny Marie Královny. These highlights offer different ways to explore the area: architecture and construction history sit alongside religious tradition and commemorative culture. When planning a trip, visitors can choose which of these stories to focus on according to their own interests.
Podolský Bridge: construction and awards
Podolský Bridge was built between 1938 and 1943. Its main arch is 150 metres long. It is known as the “Gateway to Heaven” and received awards at international competitions in Paris and Liège. These details shed light on different aspects of the bridge: the construction dates place its origins in time, the main arch gives a specific dimension, while its nickname and awards add its public name and recognition in competitions.
Photo exhibition at the museum
The permanent photo exhibition at the Podolí I Museum documents the construction of Podolský Bridge between 1938 and 1943. It covers the same construction period, but focuses on it as a photographic subject. Visits are possible by prior arrangement with the staff of the municipal office.
Ferry route and two eras of bridges
An old trade route from Bavaria to Galicia crossed the Podolsko ferry. The first written mention of the ferry dates from 1493; until the chain bridge was built in 1848, the route crossed the river there by ferry. The chain bridge and Podolský Bridge are separate structures: the former marks the end of the route being served by ferry, while the latter was built between 1938 and 1943. In chronological terms, 1493 relates to the ferry, 1848 to the chain bridge and 1938 to 1943 to Podolský Bridge.
Chapel and pilgrimage
The Chapel of Panny Marie Královny in Podolí I was built by settlers in 1970. A pilgrimage takes place at the chapel every year on the last Sunday in May. Thus, a specific history of its origins sits alongside a recurring religious occasion. Since the occasion is tied to the last Sunday, its calendar date varies from year to year. If you are travelling specifically for the pilgrimage, check the programme in advance, as it may change.
Remembrance at Podolský Bridge
An information board on the Temešvár side of Podolský Bridge was replaced on 8 May 2014. It provides information about events in Podolsko at the end of the Second World War. A small commemorative ceremony is held on the same side every year on 8 May. The board and the ceremony have different focuses: the board covers historical events, while the ceremony is an annual occasion for remembrance. If you are travelling specifically for the ceremony, check the current programme in advance. The dates are distinct: the pilgrimage falls on the last Sunday in May, while the commemorative ceremony takes place on 8 May.
Discover more destinations: Záhoří and Písku, Radvánov, Jetětice, Bernartice U Milevska, Pametice U Pisku, Božetice, Boudy, Chyšky.
For the wider travel overview: Okres Písek.
