Ciboušov

Ciboušov is a small village that forms an administrative part of the town of Klášterec nad Ohří, located in the Chomutov District of the Ústí nad Labem Region in northwestern Czechia. With fewer than a hundred residents today, it is far from a headline destination, but its layered history and unusual geology make it a worthwhile short detour for anyone exploring the Ohře river valley.

Where is Ciboušov located?

The village lies within the cadastral territory of Miřetice u Klášterce nad Ohří, at an elevation of roughly 370 metres, and covers a total area of under 6 square kilometres. Its historical German name was Zibich, a reminder of the centuries during which German-speaking communities dominated this part of the Sudetenland borderlands.

What is the history of Ciboušov?

The first written mention of Ciboušov dates back to 1367, when the small settlement was subordinate to Hasištejn Castle. Over the following centuries ownership of the village changed hands repeatedly, passing through the Šumburk and Fictum noble families before eventually being administratively attached to neighbouring settlements — Miřetice, Rašovice, and finally Klášterec nad Ohří. Formal incorporation into the town of Klášterec nad Ohří took place in 1961, together with several surrounding villages: Klášterecká Jeseň, Kunov, Vysoké, Rašovice, and Suchý Důl.

The population has been in long-term decline since the 19th century — from 99 inhabitants in 1863 down to just 29 by 1991. The 2021 census, however, recorded a rebound to 98 residents.

What makes Ciboušov geologically notable?

The village's main claim to fame is a former mine on a rocky slope, once worked for precious and semi-precious stones — mainly amethyst and jasper. Ciboušov ranked among the most significant localities for gemstone occurrence anywhere in what is now the Czech Republic. Traces of the original mineral veins are still clearly visible in the spoil heaps left behind by the old workings, making the site a genuine draw for geology and mineralogy enthusiasts. The area is today protected as a national natural monument.

Who should visit Ciboušov?

Ciboušov suits travellers looking for a low-key, off-the-beaten-path stop rather than a headline attraction — particularly those interested in geology, regional history, or anyone basing themselves in Klášterec nad Ohří who wants to see more than just the town centre and its castle.

Frequently asked questions

Is Ciboušov its own municipality? No — it is formally an administrative part of the town of Klášterec nad Ohří, to which it was attached in 1961.

Where does the name Zibich come from? It is the historical German name of the village, used during the era when the local population was predominantly German-speaking.

What can visitors see in Ciboušov? Mainly the former mine workings, where traces of amethyst and jasper veins remain visible; the site is now protected as a national natural monument.

When was the village first mentioned in records? In 1367, in connection with its subordination to Hasištejn Castle.