Panský lom

Panský lom is a small but ecologically significant nature reserve located just south of Liberec, on the eastern slope of the Ještěd-Kozákov ridge, between the settlement of Pláně pod Ještědem and the western edge of Liberec (the Pilínkov district), within the boundaries of the Ještěd Nature Park. The protected area covers roughly 1.65 hectares and has held official protected status since 2005.

What exactly is Panský lom?

The site is a former dolomitic limestone quarry, sometimes referred to as Michler's quarry, marked by steep, near-vertical rock walls reaching up to 35 meters in height, with scree cones accumulated at their base. Limestone was extracted here for decades before operations ceased and the site was left to nature. Today, the dramatic quarry walls remain the most visually striking feature of the landscape.

The Hanychovská cave

The main object of protection within the reserve is a fissure cave known as Hanychovská, discovered in 1888 within the limestone quarry. The cave begins with a sinkhole roughly 9 meters deep, which opens into an extensive system of fissures stretching approximately 130 to 135 meters in total length. It ranks among the more notable underground sites in the Ještěd ridge area in terms of its ecological value.

Why does it matter for bats?

Hanychovská cave serves as an important winter hibernation site for bats. More than a dozen bat species have been recorded there, several of which are classified as critically endangered. The stable temperature and humidity found deep within the fissure system create favorable conditions for hibernation, giving Panský lom significance that extends well beyond its geological interest alone.

What other species live here?

The exposed limestone rock faces of the former quarry support vegetation typical of calcareous rocky habitats, including fern species associated with limestone outcrops. Among the notable animal species is the fire salamander, a protected amphibian, while common ravens nest on the rocky ledges above the quarry floor. The variety of microhabitats, from sun-exposed rock faces to shaded, moist crevices, allows a surprising range of organisms to coexist within a small area.

What is the historical background of the site?

Beyond its natural value, Panský lom carries an unusual historical footnote tied to wartime engineering plans. A tunnel for the so-called Hitler's highway, designed by Liberec engineer Ulrich Huber, was intended to begin at this exact location. The project, however, was never carried out and survives only as a historical plan.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Panský lom located? The reserve lies south of central Liberec, near the Pilínkov district, on the slope of the Ještěd-Kozákov ridge at an elevation of around 620 meters above sea level.

Can visitors enter the Hanychovská cave? The cave functions as a protected bat hibernation site, so free access to its interior is not permitted. Visitors to the reserve should respect the nature conservation rules that apply to the entire protected area.

Since when has the area been protected? The site received formal protection as a nature monument in 2005.

What makes this site special? The combination of a former limestone quarry, a unique fissure cave system, and its role as a hibernation site for numerous bat species, including several endangered ones, makes Panský lom a distinctive natural feature near Liberec.