Malčín brings together three different points of interest for a stay: the history of the village, glassmaking in Dobrá Voda, and a route that passes through Malčín. These themes complement one another, but they are not all located in the same place. The historic Hoglova glassworks was in Dobrá Voda near Malčín, while the route passes through Malčín.

Village History and Remembrance

Malčín was first mentioned in written records in 1358 and at that time belonged to the Vilémov Monastery. The village was built on the edge of a large border forest that separated Bohemia from Moravia until the 14th century. This brings together two different historical perspectives: the year 1358 marks the first written mention of Malčín, while the forest border describes the broader context between Bohemia and Moravia.

The village’s history and landscape are complemented by the war memorial in Malčín. It bears the names of local residents who fell for their country in the World War. The individual names shift the focus from the early written record to the people of the village and the remembrance of their losses.

Glassmaking History in Dobrá Voda

The historic Hoglova glassworks was in Dobrá Voda near Malčín and was founded by J. J. Hogle in 1723. It produced clear glass and un-decolorized glass known as forest glass. Its product range included cups, goblets and small bottles, as well as beer and wine glasses.

For a cultural and historical perspective, material and use are two separate aspects: forest glass is glass that has not been decolorized, while the list of vessels shows the range of products made. This makes it possible to understand the glassworks not only through its founding year, but also through the nature of its products.

Route and Žižkova studánka

The route is called “From the Castle in Světlá via Dobrá Voda to Josefodol”; the name itself shows the sequence from the castle in Světlá through Dobrá Voda to Josefodol. After the Žižkova studánka spring, the route passes through Malčín. Beyond Malčín, the path follows an unmarked stretch to Vlčkův mlýn.

The spring lies about 450 metres north of Dobrá Voda, a settlement in the municipality of Malčín, beside a marked forest path with yellow trail markings. This makes it possible to distinguish between the sections: the forest path by the spring is marked in yellow, while the continuation beyond Malčín to the mill is not marked. Before setting out, check the current route and trail conditions; on an unmarked section, it is a good idea to plan your navigation in advance.

A local legend tells that Jan Žižka stopped at the spring while being pursued by King Sigismund. This episode gives the destination a story behind it, distinct from the concrete details of its location and trail markings. Those interested in local traditions will find here not only a walking route, but also a story associated with Žižka’s name.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Dolní Krupá near Havlíčkův Brod, Čečkovice, Sloupno, Slavníč, Habry, Klokocov, Chotěboř, Dlouha Ves

For the broader travel overview: Havlíčkův Brod District.