Jistebnice
A small town in the middle of the “Devil’s Hills,” where the famous Jistebnice hymn book was discovered.
Jistebnice is a charming, historic town nestled among rolling hills in the clean countryside. It is dominated by the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. The famous Jistebnice Cantionale, containing the Hussite hymn “Ye Who Are Warriors of God,” was discovered in the local rectory. Although the town’s coat of arms bears the Rožmberk rose, it shares much history with the Hussites – notably, Petr Hromádka, the bell ringer from Jistebnice, is believed to have founded the town of Tábor.
You can explore the educational trail through the Jistebnice orchards and local ponds. At the municipal office, you can borrow keys to visit the local manor – also known as the “Italian House” – which houses a memorial hall dedicated to native painter Richard Lauda. A red-marked hiking trail leads to the Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene, offering a stunning view of South Bohemia.
