Vodní mlýn (Nový Knín) Water mill

Welcome to this lovely place. You are standing right in front of the historic water mill called the Krcál, which is located in the northern part of the picturesque village Nový Knín. You can certainly see the peaceful atmosphere, because this valuable display of folk and late baroque construction in the Pribram district is standing on the Voznické creek, just before its natural confluence with the Kocába River. When you look around you, you see a structure that remembers hundreds of years of human endeavor and wisely resists the trials of time.

Let us now look deeper into the history of this remarkable work. The historical context of this construction dates back to the last decade of the eighteenth century. The exact period of birth of this monument is firmly documented in the cartouche, which is located at the top of the southern shield mill, where we read the year seventeen hundred ninety-two. Unfortunately, we do not know the names of the creators, i.e. builders or architects, but their craftsmanship and their attention to detail speak for them and persist until today. Similarly, it is the case with specific historical figures that would be closely linked to this mill, as chronicles remain silent about them, but the spirit of the then residents and miller has undoubtedly left an invisible mark.

Now pay attention to the architecture itself, which is right in front of you. In front of you is a walled-up storey object, which at first glance captures its Mansard roof. This roof is carefully covered with traditional burnt bags, which are called bobbies. The architecturally most valuable part of the building is undoubtedly both masonry shields. Look closer. They are beautifully lined on the sides and decorated with rich stucco. It is these shields that give the whole building an unmistakable character and show a high level of craft art.

When we think about the key stories of this place, we realize that the mill has played a very important role in the life of the local community for generations. There was a mill of grain for the broad surroundings, people came here with their worries and joys and water flowing through the stream drove the wheels that drove the whole world forward. Although we do not know the names of the particular people from those times, we can live to see the vigil that prevailed here during the morning dawn, and the silence that came with the evening shadows falling to the level of the creek.

The fact that the mill Krcál is officially protected as a real cultural monument is an interesting fact and the great value of this place. This, in itself, shows its uniqueness and the need to protect it for future generations. There is also a small mystery associated with this construction, namely the already mentioned cartouche with the year seventeen hundred ninety-two on top of the southern shield. He is a silent witness to the past who speaks to us without words and makes us think about how life on this river bank has changed over the last 200 years, while running water remains the same.

In conclusion, we'd like to invite you to further explore this picturesque neighborhood. You can walk along the water stream, perceive the roar of the stream and let the charm of the old times, which Nový Knín so generously offers to every perceptive visitor. Thank you for listening to our stories, and we wish you a wonderful experience the rest of your walks. Goodbye.