Třeboňská rybniční soustava Water structure

The Třeboňská rybniční soustava system, or Třeboň, is an impressive network of over 500 interconnected ponds in southern Bohemia. Established since the 13th century and developed mainly between the 15th and 16th centuries, it has an area of approximately 6,370 hectares (15,700 acres). The system, which is known for its historical importance as the main aquaculture sector, also plays a role in water management, biodiversity protection and recreation. At present UNESCO is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, stands out as an important cultural monument.

Fish ponds in Bohemia date back to the 12th century, with a pond of carp mentioned in the Kladruba Charter 1115. The significant development in Trebon began in the 13th century when the Slavs from Central Bohemia arrived and began their drainage efforts in the conversion of swamps into arable land. This process was obtained at the end of the 14th century on the basis of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV's directive to strengthen fish production for the kingdom. The construction of these ponds was both a practical effort and a competitive civic activity, with large ponds being highly valued.

Třeboňská rybniční soustava has an architecturally complex network of canals, trenches and streams connecting different ponds. Under Štěpánka Netolický in 1506 there was a significant expansion, including the creation of the Golden sewer canal, 48 km long waterways completed between 1518 and 1520. This engineering performance ensured a stable supply of water through the water catchment areas, even during the drought. Jakub Krčín later contributed to the construction of the Rožmberský pond, the largest in Central Europe, and to connecting channels like the New River.

Pond ownership has evolved over time. Originally managed by numbers such as Štěpánka Netolický and Jakub Krčín were later owned by the house Schwarzenberg until 1920. Fishing Třeboň a.s. today oversees their operation and maintains annual fish production of about 2,900 tonnes, mainly carp.

Fishing ponds throughout history faced various challenges and developments. The 30-year war significantly reduced the fish harvest, but the recovery was documented in 1751. At the end of the 19th century Josef Šusta built other ponds that brought the overall size. Despite these changes, the system continues to perform several functions outside aquaculture.

Třeboňská rybniční soustava now plays a key role in the protection of biodiversity. Its age and design have created a semi-natural environment that promotes a variety of flora and fauna, including over 150 species of birds and many mammals. But enhanced agricultural practices since World War II have threatened this ecological balance by destroying natural habitats and eutrophication.

As far as water management is concerned, fish ponds act as a buffer for floods in their large water catchment areas in Czech and Austrian regions. Despite the challenges posed by ageing infrastructure, such as the gap from the terrestrial dam and wood drainage pipelines, they continue to effectively mitigate the flood effects.

The importance of Třeboňská rybniční soustava is further recognised by its designation as the UNESCO Biosphere Reservation since 1977 and by inclusion on the Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance. Such recognition underlines its ecological, cultural and historical value.

Visitors Třeboňská rybniční soustava can explore a landscape rich in history and natural beauty. Fishing ponds offer knowledge of medieval engineering and sustainable water management practices that have lasted for centuries. Whether you are interested in history, ecology or simply enjoying scenic visions, this site provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate its continued importance today.