Memorials Adršpašsko

Wooden Belfry in Rtyně v Podkrkonoší – a unique keeper of time

This exceptional wooden belfry stands in the cemetery next to the Church of St. John the Baptist. It was probably built between 1592–1594, according to dendrochronology, and belongs among the oldest and technically most unique belfries of its kind in the Czech Republic and Europe.
 

What awaits you here – history, structure, and the silence of bells

• Polygonal wooden structure on a stone octagonal base, topped with a slender tall roof covered with shingles, without a single metal connection – everything is held together by wooden pegs and so-called floating joints
• Inside are three historic bells:
  • Umíráček (Mračník) from 1471 (159 kg), originally used to announce storms
  • Poledník from 1545 (250 kg), a more ceremonial noontime bell
  • Slavnostní from 1644 (approx. 350 kg), ringing only on special occasions

Who the belfry is ideal for

• Lovers of medieval engineering, Gothic forms, and silent history
• Tourist groups, schools, and individuals who will appreciate the original architecture and symbolism of the site
• Access is easy, flat up to the church
• Entry with dogs is not allowed

How to get here and what else to experience
The belfry stands next to the Church of St. John the Baptist at the exit from the town towards Červený Kostelec or Náchod. Parking is available in the center of Rtyně. Regular guided tours are provided by the Rtyně Town Museum, mainly between May and September.

A symbol ringing in the rhythm of history
The wooden belfry in Rtyně is not just an architectural gem — it is a timeless expression of calm, precision, and human skill. Come and listen to the stories of the bells that have known centuries — and perhaps you will also hear the whisper of the landscape beneath the Krkonoše mountains.

The town of Turnov is one of the district towns in the Královéhradecký kraj. As in every proper centre, visitors will find a landmark in the town square here as well. In Trutnov, this is represented by the Krakonošova kašna (Krakonoš Fountain), which, among other things, points to the proximity of our largest mountain range, the Krkonoše. Originally, until 1605, only a smaller wooden fountain stood here, which was subsequently replaced by a new one. A dragon made of white sandstone stood out on it, and for this reason, it was called the Dračí studna (Dragon Well). In 1892, it was replaced by the Krakonošova kašna.

The author of the design was a professor at the Trutnov secondary technical school, J. Kirschner. The fountain consists of a granite basin and a sandstone core. And, of course, there is also a metal sculpture of the mountain guardian, Krakonoš. Interestingly, a tin box containing documentary information about this structure was placed in the central part of the well.

The original statue of Krakonoš was manufactured at the A. Castner art foundry in Berlin. However, as it was already considerably damaged by age and weather conditions over time, it was replaced in 2001 by a bronze replica from the workshop of J. Janeček from Vamberk. Since 2015, Krakonoš has been joined by four dwarf companions, so-called gnomes. Their creator is the Trutnov native P. Skavová.

The Krakonošova studna (Krakonoš Well) is a wonderful place for relaxation. Visitors are invited to stop here during their wanderings through Trutnov and soak up the atmosphere. The surrounding picturesque historical houses and their arcades will also provide shelter in case of wind or rain.

Should the weather be unfavourable, it is recommended to "take cover" while also learning something new at the Muzeum Podkrkonoší. It will introduce several gems of the Trutnovsko region in the form of replicas of castles, chateaux, and rural homesteads. Conversely, on a hot summer day, pleasant refreshment can be found at the MEBYS Trutnov summer swimming pool.

So, would you like to see the lord of the mountains, Krakonoš, or visit another one of Trutnov's attractions? What is holding you back? Plan your holiday and start looking for suitable accommodation in the Trutnovsko region. There are many options here; family cottages, comfortable apartments, and even multi-star hotels or guesthouses will provide a place where you can rest your head at night and recharge your energy for a new day full of experiences. And if you wish to start your tour with the aforementioned icon of the Trutnov square, finding suitable accommodation near the Krakonošova kašna will not be difficult with the help of the MegaUbytko portal. We wish you a pleasant stay!