Muzeum Jaroslava Foglara

The Jaroslav Foglar Museum in Ledeč nad Sázavou is a small but atmospheric institution dedicated to one of the most influential Czech authors of youth literature. Housed within the town's castle, it is the world's first museum devoted to the life and work of Foglar, the writer behind "Boys from the Beaver River" and the creator of the beloved comic series Rychlé šípy (Fast Arrows).

Why Ledeč nad Sázavou?

The location is no accident. Nearby, along the banks of the Sázava River, in a cove known as Sluneční zátoka (Sunny Cove), Foglar ran his very first scout camps. Those experiences directly inspired the setting of his most famous adventure novel about boys camping by a river. Walking along the riverbanks today, visitors can actually see the real place that shaped the writer's imagination.

What will you see inside?

The exhibition fills eight rooms of the castle, decorated with hundreds of illustrations by Milan Teslevič, including large-format murals that recreate the mysterious atmosphere of the fictional district of Stínadla from the Fast Arrows comics. Highlights include:

• Life-size figures of the Rychlé šípy characters — a favorite photo opportunity for visitors
• A reconstructed camp and clubhouse in the style of "Boys from the Beaver River"
• Personal memorabilia and details from Foglar's private life, offering a closer look at the man behind the legend

The museum first opened in part at the beginning of 2017, marking the 110th anniversary of Foglar's birth, before expanding significantly in 2018. It has continued to grow ever since.

How do you get there?

The museum sits inside the castle grounds in Ledeč nad Sázavou, in the Vysočina region, easily reachable by car from Prague (about 80 km) or from Havlíčkův Brod. The castle itself is a popular destination in its own right — beyond the Foglar museum, it's worth combining your visit with a tour of the castle circuit, including a museum of historical clocks.

Who is this attraction for?

This place holds special appeal for anyone who grew up reading Foglar's novels or following the Fast Arrows comics — but it's also a great choice for families with children who want a taste of old-school scouting adventure and river expeditions. The illustrations and set design make the exhibition engaging even for visitors unfamiliar with the writer's work beforehand.

When is the best time to visit?

Summer months are ideal, since you can pair a museum visit with a walk along the Sázava River and a stop at Sluneční zátoka — the very place that inspired Foglar's writing. It's worth checking the castle's current opening hours before your trip, as they can vary by season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Jaroslav Foglar? He was a Czech writer and scouting figure, author of classic adventure novels for young readers — including "Boys from the Beaver River" — and creator of the Fast Arrows characters known from his comics.

Why was the museum built in Ledeč nad Sázavou specifically? Because nearby, along the Sázava River, Foglar ran his first scout camps, which directly inspired the setting of his most famous novel.

Is the museum suitable for children? Yes — thanks to its rich set design, illustrations, and life-size character figures, the exhibition appeals to both adult fans and young visitors alike.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The Ledeč nad Sázavou castle itself, with its museum of historical clocks, and Sluneční zátoka on the river — the real-life place that inspired Foglar's work.