Pacov’s history can be traced through several sites with clearly documented dates, from the castle founded in the 13th century to churches dating from the 14th and 17th centuries. Other highlights include a town museum, evidence of Jewish history, and opportunities for walks and cycling. If you are looking for accommodation in Pacov, you can plan your stay around these varied interests without limiting your sightseeing to a single theme.
Castle and Museum
Pacov Castle was originally founded as a castle in the 13th century. In the 16th century, the Lords of Robmháp of Suchá had it converted into a château. The castle also has an exhibition on the life and work of the poet Antonín Sova. The information centre is on the ground floor of the south wing; if you plan to visit, check the latest information beforehand.
The Antonín Sova Town Museum offers visits to its permanent and temporary exhibitions. As the exhibition programme may change, it is worth checking the latest information if you have a particular exhibition in mind. The museum dates back to 1908. In Pacov, you can discover both the castle’s long history and a distinct museum tradition.
Churches and Jewish Heritage
St Michael’s Church was originally Gothic. Its foundation dates to the 13th century, and it was built around 1350. The Castle Church of St Wenceslas serves as an exhibition hall, and its programme may vary. The Cemetery Church of St Barbara is an early Baroque building dating from 1681. Together, the three buildings reflect different historical and religious influences, while their dates should not be confused.
Pacov Synagogue was built in 1823 and is open to the public during occasional events. Before visiting, check whether access is scheduled. The Jewish cemetery was established in 1680; around 300 tombstones remain, the oldest dating from the first half of the 18th century. The cemetery is open to the public in accordance with Jewish customs and holidays; confirmation from a local source may be necessary.
A permanent exhibition on the history of the Jewish population in the Pacov region is housed in the Jewish cemetery’s mortuary. Check local access arrangements if you wish to visit the exhibition. The cemetery, synagogue and exhibition each offer a distinct perspective on the history of the Jewish population and should not be treated as a single attraction that is accessible at all times when planning your visit.
Green Spaces, Cycling and Events
Pacov’s urban conservation area was designated in 1990 because of its medieval and historical origins and its many architectural and cultural monuments. For a quieter break, there are the castle park and Antonín Sova Park, both of which offer green spaces suitable for walks and relaxation. Alongside the historic buildings, they provide pleasant places to pause outdoors.
The Sovova Educational Trail starts in Pacov and runs through the village of Bratřice and over Mount Stražiště to Lukavec. The route is 12 kilometres long, has four stops and is suitable for walkers and cyclists. There are also dozens of kilometres of marked cycling routes, whose courses may change. In the castle courtyard, cyclists can use a publicly accessible service and charging station for electric bicycles free of charge. Before setting out on a particular trip, check the latest route information and the station’s availability before using it.
Every year on the third weekend in June, Pacov hosts historic motorcycle races. If you would like to plan your visit around the event, check the dates in advance. This way, culture, outdoor activities and a recurring event can all serve as different reasons to stay in Pacov.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Olešná U Pelhřimova, Čejov, Zlátenka, Těmice, Vystrkov, Buřenice, Velký Rybník, Rynárec
Return to the regional travel overview: Pelhřimov District.
