About this place
The Jan Žižka of Trocnov Memorial is a memorial complex in the village of Trocnov, about 5 km west of Borovany in South Bohemia, Czech Republic. It commemorates the birthplace and childhood home of Jan Žižka, one of medieval Europe's most celebrated military commanders and a leading figure of the Hussite movement.
Who was Jan Žižka, and why does Trocnov matter?
In the mid-14th century, a minor nobleman named Řehoř Žižka lived with his wife on one of the local estates. Around 1360, their son Jan was born there and spent his childhood and youth in Trocnov before becoming one of the most effective commanders of the Hussite Wars, never defeated in a single battle. His birthplace has been a source of local and national pride for centuries, and since 1978 the entire complex has been protected as a national cultural monument.
What can you see at the site?
The memorial grounds cover 11.4 hectares of forest and meadow, containing several distinct points of interest. The centerpiece is the museum, housed in a former granary courtyard built in 1678-1679 for the Borovany monastery, reportedly using masonry salvaged from the original Trocnov estate buildings. Inside, an interactive exhibition covers Jan Žižka's life and military career, complemented by a display dedicated to the film "Jan Žižka" (Medieval), directed by Petr Jákl.
Outdoors, visitors can see a granite monument to Jan Žižka, the remains of Mikš's estate (Mikšův dvorec), and Žižka's own estate with the foundations of the farmstead he is said to have come from. A separate memorial stone marks the site of the legendary "Žižka oak," the tree under which, according to tradition, the future commander was born. The complex also includes an educational trail, a children's corner, and a lecture hall, and it operates as a branch of the South Bohemian Museum in České Budějovice (Archeoskanzen Trocnov).
How do you get there, and how much time should you plan?
Trocnov lies roughly 5 km from Borovany and is reachable via local roads - arriving by car or bicycle is the most practical option, and the area connects to several regional hiking and cycling routes. The outdoor grounds, including the educational trail and monuments, are accessible year-round. The museum building with its exhibitions is open Tuesday through Sunday and on public holidays - it is worth checking current hours on the South Bohemian Museum's website before visiting. Plan on 2-3 hours to see the whole complex, including the museum.
When is the best time to visit?
Because the site combines an indoor exhibition with an extensive outdoor area, spring, summer, and early autumn are the best times to visit, allowing full access to the grounds and educational trail. Museum access can be more limited in winter, so it is worth confirming opening hours before setting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the Jan Žižka of Trocnov Memorial located? In the village of Trocnov, about 5 km west of Borovany, in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic.
Who was Jan Žižka? A celebrated military commander and leading figure of the Hussite movement, undefeated in any battle he fought, born in Trocnov around 1360.
How long does a visit take? Seeing the whole complex, including the museum, typically takes 2-3 hours.
Is the complex open year-round? The outdoor grounds and educational trail are accessible all year, while the museum building keeps set opening days and hours (Tuesday to Sunday plus holidays) - it's best to check before you go.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.