Ivanské jezero

Ivanské jezero is a small reservoir in the Les Včelný nature park, about 3 km from the centre of Rychnov nad Kněžnou, in the Hradec Králové Region of eastern Czechia. It was formed on the Javornický stream in the early 20th century and has served local residents as a peaceful, forest-lined spot for recreation for more than a hundred years.

Where does the name come from?

The lake's name comes from a legendary hermit called Ivan, said to have lived in the area and regarded as its patron and guardian. Both the reservoir and the surrounding land take their name from him, though the hermit himself belongs more to local folklore than to documented history.

When was the dam built and what does it look like?

The stone dam that holds back the Javornický stream was built between 1905 and 1910, with some sources pointing to 1907 as the year the structure was completed as part of flood-protection works for the valley. The dam is 82 metres long and 7 metres high, a gravity dam built from quarried stone — a typical solution for regional water-management projects of that era.

What is the reservoir used for?

Ivanské jezero serves two purposes: it protects the Javornický stream valley from flooding, and it functions as a recreation spot for residents of Rychnov nad Kněžnou and the surrounding villages. Soon after the reservoir filled with water, the area grew in popularity — boat rentals, gazebos and viewpoints appeared along the shore, and the neighbouring forest became a favourite destination for day trips.

What used to draw visitors here?

In the past, small bathing facilities operated by the lake, offering guests baths and the option of heated water, while visitors valued the quiet of the surrounding nature, the mild local climate and the food served at nearby inns. Traces of that tradition are still felt in the lake's character today as a low-key, unhurried recreational spot.

What can you see by the lake today?

Since 28 September 2002, a sandstone statue of the water sprite Kristiánek, created by sculptor Marcel Sršeň, has stood on the shore — a local touch that plays on the watery folklore associated with the site. A walk around the reservoir also offers views of the dam structure itself and the surrounding Les Včelný forest.

What is happening with the reservoir now?

In recent years the dam's technical condition deteriorated to the point where a major reconstruction became necessary. The Czech Ministry of Agriculture has allocated tens of millions of crowns toward restoring the reservoir, and heavy construction machinery has moved in to carry out the modernisation works. The goal of the project is to preserve the lake in its current form while reinforcing the safety of the dam structure.

Is it worth a visit?

Ivanské jezero makes a good destination for anyone looking for a quiet spot close to Rychnov nad Kněžnou, surrounded by the Les Včelný forest. It's an easy short walk or bike ride from town, and a chance to see a dam that has stood for more than a century while hearing the local legend of the hermit Ivan.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Ivanské jezero located? In the Les Včelný nature park, about 3 km from Rychnov nad Kněžnou, in the Hradec Králové Region, on the Javornický stream.

When was the dam that created the lake built? Between 1905 and 1910; some sources date the completion of the dam itself to 1907.

What are the dam's dimensions? The dam is 82 metres long and 7 metres high.

Where does the lake's name come from? From a legendary hermit named Ivan, regarded as the patron and guardian of the site.

What can visitors see by the lake? A sandstone statue of the water sprite Kristiánek from 2002, along with the historic dam structure itself.

Is the reservoir currently being renovated? Yes, a modernisation project is underway, partly funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, aimed at preserving the lake in its current form.