Zdíkov offers travelers several distinct themes: the history of Zdíkov Castle, the listed Church of St. Ludmila, and landscape features such as the wetland in the castle park and the forest avenue from the Chapel on Liz to the forest lodge on Liz. Those who place greater importance on architectural history can consider the castle and church in terms of their different periods; those who want to include the landscape can look to the park and chapel. This makes it possible to decide in advance which of these aspects will be especially appealing during your stay.
The history of Zdíkov Castle
Zdíkov Castle was created by converting an older stone Renaissance fortress. The fortress was first mentioned in 1666, when the estate belonged to the Malovcové family. For historical context, it is important that the year refers to the fortress’s first mention and that the castle arose from its conversion. The castle complex, including the park, is listed as a protected monument. Its origins and protected status thus offer two perspectives on the same complex: one looks back to the older fortress, while the other encompasses the castle and park.
Castle Park and Wetland
Zdíkov Castle Park covers six hectares and contains a wetland. The area gives a sense of the park’s scale, while the wetland identifies a specific landscape feature. Together, these provide two different points of reference for anyone wishing to consider the landscape, as well as the architectural history, when choosing a destination. The park is also part of the protected castle complex. Those organizing their visit to Zdíkov around cultural and landscape themes can consider these two aspects of the park separately: its connection with the castle ensemble and the wetland as a distinct natural feature.
Chapel on Liz and Forest Avenue
The Chapel of the Birth of the Virgin Mary on Liz is located in Zdíkov’s castle forest park. The present chapel, designed in a Romantic style, was built in 1852 by Count Franz Anton Thun-Hohenstein beside a spring described as miraculous. The year of construction and the name of its builder give its history a specific timeframe; the spring is also part of this local setting. A forest avenue leads from the chapel to the forest lodge on Liz. These named endpoints provide clear orientation for anyone interested in the chapel and the landscape along the avenue.
Church of St. Ludmila and a 1922 Altarpiece
The Church of St. Ludmila was built in 1921–1922 in the late Art Nouveau style and is listed as a protected monument. Its construction period sets it apart in time from the castle’s earlier history, which begins with the fortress first mentioned in 1666. Another significant date in art history is 1922: that year, painter and restorer Josef Hübsch created an altarpiece depicting St. Ludmila and St. Wenceslas. The architecture and painting can thus be considered in relation to the same year without equating these two different art forms.
Accommodation and Seasonal Transport Planning
Zdíkov Castle currently serves as a hotel. If you are considering this accommodation for your trip, check availability for your desired dates. During the summer season, DS Cyklotrans is designated as a transport system for tourists and cyclists in Zdíkov; check the timetable before traveling. You can therefore independently check whether the hotel is an option for your travel dates and whether information about DS Cyklotrans is relevant to your summer trip.
Discover more destinations: Mahouš, Babice U Netolic, Malenice, Svatá Maří, Kristanovice, Nove Hute, Dub U Prachatic, Chlumany.
For the broader travel overview: Okres Prachatice.
