Muzeum Svatopluka Čecha a Jarmily Novotné

The Museum of Svatopluk Čech and Jarmila Novotná in Liteň is a small but content-rich institution dedicated to two figures forever linked with this town near Beroun – the poet Svatopluk Čech and the world-famous opera singer Jarmila Novotná. The museum occupies newly adapted rooms of the former rectory, right next to the Church of St. Peter and Paul, in the heart of Liteň.

What will you find inside?

The exhibition is split into three parts. The first hall covers the life and career of Jarmila Novotná, who lived in Liteň for several years of her marriage to Jiří Daubek, owner of the local estate. The second section traces the history of Liteň itself, its manor, castle and successive owners. The third part introduces other personalities connected with the town.

Among the figures featured, Svatopluk Čech holds a central place. He stayed in Liteň between 1852 and 1856, and later recalled the town in his poetic work "Ve stínu lípy" (In the Shadow of the Linden) as a place close to his heart. The museum also honors the priest and poet Václav Beneš Třebízský, the clergyman and educator František Josef Řezáč, and the Czech paleontologist Otomar Pravoslav Novák – all of whom had ties to Liteň.

Why visit?

The museum appeals to anyone interested in Czech literary history, but also to opera lovers – Jarmila Novotná performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages, including New York's Metropolitan Opera, and her name still draws admirers of her voice. Because the museum is compact, a visit does not take long, yet it offers a genuine look into a lesser-known chapter of the Beroun region's cultural history.

How to get there?

Liteň lies close to Beroun, in the Central Bohemian Region, making it a convenient day-trip destination from Prague. The museum is housed in the former rectory building next to the Church of St. Peter and Paul, right in the town center – the church tower, visible from most streets, is a reliable landmark for finding it.

When to visit?

Spring and summer are the best seasons to come, when other attractions in the area are also open and walking around Liteň and the surrounding hills is most enjoyable. It is worth checking the current opening hours before the trip, since small regional museums often keep limited days and hours, especially outside the high season.

Frequently asked questions

Who is the museum in Liteň dedicated to? Two figures tied to the town: the poet Svatopluk Čech, who lived here as a child, and the opera singer Jarmila Novotná, who spent part of her married life in Liteň.

Where exactly is the museum located? In the former rectory building next to the Church of St. Peter and Paul, in the center of Liteň.

Does the museum cover anything beyond its two main figures? Yes, the third part of the exhibition is devoted to other people connected with Liteň, including Václav Beneš Třebízský, František Josef Řezáč and Otomar Pravoslav Novák.

Is Liteň suitable for a day trip from Prague? Yes, the town lies close to Beroun in the Central Bohemian Region, which makes it a good choice for a day trip from Prague or a stop while exploring the region.