archeoskanzen Trocnov

Archeoskanzen Trocnov sits in the village of Trocnov, part of the Borovany municipality in South Bohemia, and recreates a medieval settlement from the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries. The open-air museum stands on the grounds of the Jan Žižka of Trocnov Memorial, marking the birthplace of the most famous Hussite military commander. It is run by the South Bohemian Museum in České Budějovice, which treats it as a hands-on history lesson rather than a static display behind ropes.

What will you see on site?

The reconstructed homestead shows how a lower-ranking noble family — a so-called vladyka — would have lived around 1400. The complex includes a residential house, a granary, a stable, a barn, and several smaller outbuildings, all built by hand using period-accurate carpentry and roofing techniques, from timber processing to thatching methods typical of the era. The visit is split into two viewing circuits, letting you explore both the interiors of the buildings and the overall layout of the settlement from outside.

A separate highlight is the permanent exhibition of original costumes from director Petr Jákl's film "Jan Žižka," which premiered in cinemas in 2022. It is an unusual pairing — film props displayed alongside an authentic historical reconstruction of the same story.

How do you get to the open-air museum?

Trocnov lies a few kilometers from Borovany, in the České Budějovice district. Driving is by far the most convenient option, since the surroundings are rural and public transport is limited. Travelers without a car should treat Borovany or České Budějovice as their starting point and plan for an additional short leg by local transport or taxi. Build in some extra time, since the village of Trocnov itself, tied to the legend of Žižka's birth, is worth a short walk.

When is the best time to visit?

The site operates seasonally, typically from spring through autumn, when both circuits are open and craft demonstrations or educational workshops occasionally accompany the permanent exhibition. A visitor and education center on site adds an exhibition hall and a lecture hall, making Trocnov a fitting destination for families with children as well as for anyone interested in medieval history and the Hussite movement.

Why is Trocnov historically significant?

Jan Žižka of Trocnov is a pivotal figure in Czech history — an undefeated Hussite commander who pioneered the use of war wagons as mobile fortifications on the battlefield. Building the open-air museum precisely on his birthplace gives the site a symbolic weight that few reconstructions can match. In 2025, Archeoskanzen Trocnov ranked first in the Czech Republic by visitor numbers among sites tied to significant historical figures — a clear sign of how strongly it resonates with both tourists and the local community.

Frequently asked questions

What is Archeoskanzen Trocnov? It is a reconstruction of a medieval village settlement from around 1400, built on the birthplace of Jan Žižka of Trocnov and operated by the South Bohemian Museum.

How long does a visit take? Depending on your pace, one to two hours is usually enough to cover both circuits and the film costume exhibition.

Is it suitable for children? Yes — the reconstructed buildings and demonstrations of historical crafts are visually engaging and educational for younger visitors too.

Is there anything else worth seeing nearby? Combine your visit with a trip to Borovany itself or to České Budějovice, both just a short drive away.