Malenice

The earliest human settlement in this area dates back to the Stone Age, as evidenced by finds from burial mounds on Bukovec Hill. In addition, the Celts also inhabited Malenice during the 5th century BC.

Malenice is located in the South Bohemian Region, in the Strakonice District, and is a picturesque village situated in the valley of the Volyňka River, on the edge of the Bohemian Forest (Šumava). During the summer months, Malenice becomes an attractive tourist destination—not only for its historical landmarks, peaceful atmosphere, and pristine nature but also for its cultural events and notable personalities.

Since July 2014, Malenice has been home to an Information and Cultural Center, housed in the renovated former rectory.

This historic building includes:

• an information center
• the "Priest’s Secret Chamber"
• a local library

The social hall regularly hosts handicraft workshops, lectures, and cultural events, such as exhibitions, concerts, and Christmas markets. The old rectory, still referred to as such by locals, has become the heart of cultural life in the region, attracting visitors from near and far.

Origin of the Name "Malenice"

The name "Malenice" has three possible origins:

1. The founder of the village may have been a man named Maleň or Malina.
2. The name may come from the abundance of raspberry bushes in the area.
3. A local legend tells of a village growing so fast that it was on the verge of becoming a town. At the height of this prosperity, an invading leader arrived with his army, intending to destroy everything. The villagers begged for mercy, so he offered them a choice: "Small or nothing!" Naturally, the people chose "small", and the village became known as Malenice.

Tourism & Accommodation

Malenice offers several private guesthouses for accommodation. A local farm, which has become a popular agrotourism and equestrian tourism destination, also offers lodging—find more information at www.farmamalenice.cz.

The village also features:

• a community center
• a grocery store
• a post office
• a children’s playground
• a multi-functional sports field for tennis, volleyball, and foot tennis

Awards & Recognition

In 2008, Malenice was awarded the title of "Village of the Year" in the South Bohemian Region and secured third place in the national competition for the Czech Republic’s Village of the Year.

Cultural & Historical Monuments

One of the most important landmarks is the Church of St. James the Greater.

The adjacent cemetery, also known as the "South Bohemian Slavín", is the final resting place of many renowned personalities, including:

• Josef Zítek – Architect and builder of Prague's National Theatre
• František Teplý – Archivist and historian
• Anna Hüttnerová
• Jiří Pleskot – Actor
• Jaroslav Pešek – Academic painter
• Zdeněk Podskalský – Film director
• Jiřina Jirásková – Actress
• Prof. MUDr. Marie Pešková, DrSc. – Physician
• Pavel Kühn – Choir conductor

At the center of the village is the Information and Cultural Center, housed in the former rectory, officially opened in July 2014. The restored rectory serves as a meeting place for the community, hosting exhibitions, concerts, creative workshops, discussions, and other cultural events.

Chapel of St. Wenceslas

On Hůrka Hill (southeast of the village) stands the Chapel of St. Wenceslas. Built in the style of a Romanesque rotunda, it was funded by historian František Teplý. In 2003, the chapel underwent a complete renovation and now serves as a pilgrimage site during the Wenceslas Pilgrimage in September.

Jiřičková Cave

On the left bank of the Volyňka River, near Jiřičková Rock, lies Jiřičková Cave, just north of Malenice. This site is known for its significant archaeological finds, including fossilized remains of animals from the Quaternary period.

A forest path runs from the western edge of Malenice, following the Volyňka River northward. If you follow this path along the river, you will reach Jiřičková Rock, at the base of which the cave is located.

Famous Personalities of Malenice

Malenice is associated with many notable figures, including:

• Josef Zítek – Architect of the National Theatre in Prague
• Jaroslav Jankovec – Composer and conductor
• Pavel Kühn – Choir conductor
• Jiří Pleskot – Actor
• Jaroslav Pešek – Academic painter
• Prof. MUDr. Marie Pešková – Physician
• Zdeněk Podskalský – Film director
• Jiřina Jirásková – Actress

Traditional Events in Malenice

Among the most significant cultural events in Malenice are:

• "Staročeská konopická" – A traditional Bohemian festival
• "Velikonoční neckyjáda" – An Easter boat race featuring unique homemade rafts

Malenice is thus not only a place of rich history but also a vibrant cultural hub, attracting visitors with its festivals, nature, and historical landmarks.