Krajinná památková zóna Libějovicko-Lomecko Landscape heritage zone

Krajinná památková zóna Libějovicko-Lomecko is a unique territory in the South Bohemia region, declared by the landscape monument zone in 1996. The zone is spread over an area of 2182 hectares and is located in the districts of Prachatice and Strakonice. Its main attraction is the rich building, housing and vegetation elements, which are the result of historical landscaping during the Baroque period.

The history of the settlement of this region dates back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by the found pagan and mound burial sites. Later, the territory was inhabited by people from moth cultures. A significant role in the formation and cultivation of the landscape was played by noble families that managed the vast South Bohemia estate. During the Baroque period, the landscape was cared for by Buquoys and later by Schwarzenberg, then owners of land in the south of Bohemia. At this time, architectural and landscape modifications took place in the vicinity of Libějovice locks, New and Old. Objects in the landscape were connected by a wide 2 km long carriage path with four rows of alleys which led to the court of the Lazne and the chapel of St. Mary Magdalena in Chelčice on the north side and to the church of the Virgin Mary on the top of the Lomec on the south side. In the 19th century more orchards were planted in the landscape, which led to the expansion of Libìjovice Park.

The ownership and administration of this area has undergone several changes. After the land reform carried out in 1922-1938, the owners changed, leading to new purposes for some buildings. Buquoyové and Schwarzenbergové were key figures in the history of the area, whose legacy is visible today.

Key events in the territory of the Monument Zone include the declaration of the Landscape Monument Zone in 1996 and the connection of objects by a wide carriage route between 1766- 1772. The territory also contains a pagan and mound burial site from prehistoric times, which shows the long settlement of the area.

Today, the landscape conservation zone of Libìjovico-Lomecko is a protected area with thirty registered elements, which are part of a unique set of valuable building, residential and vegetation elements. These include courts, chapel, churches, statues and other historical objects. The border of the monument zone starts in the north-east at the intersection of the road Vodňany - České Budějovice with the road to the village Černěves and continues along the railway line, the river trough upstream to the village Truskovice. They surround the villages of Krtly, Chelčice, Vodňany and Escape before returning to the starting point.

For visitors, this monument zone is accessible and offers the opportunity to explore the rich history and architecture of the area. Its uniqueness lies in a combination of historical elements with a beautiful landscape environment, making it an ideal place for lovers of history and nature.

Krajinná památková zóna Libějovicko-Lomecko is not only an important cultural monument, but also witnessed long-term changes in the landscape and society. Her visit offers an opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of the history and culture of the South Bohemia Region, which makes her an essential destination for every interested person in Czech history.