Šibeniční vrch

Šibeniční vrch is a wooded hill rising to 666 metres above sea level southeast of Třešť, in the Jihlava district of the Vysočina region in the Czech Republic. Part of the Brtnická vrchovina highlands, it has long served as a popular, easy destination for a short walk close to town.

Where does the name come from?

The name translates roughly as "Gallows Hill," and it is not a coincidence. Centuries ago the site served as a place of execution, where death sentences were carried out by hanging. Nothing physical remains from that grim past today — the hill is now a peaceful spot for walking and reflection, and its history has become a point of local interest that guides and information boards are happy to share with visitors.

How do you get to Šibeniční vrch?

The most straightforward approach starts at the cemetery in Třešť, with a path climbing above the cemetery grounds toward the summit. Part of this route overlaps with the town's Way of the Cross (Křížová cesta), which begins near the Church of St. Martin roughly 500 metres from the town centre and leads directly toward Šibeniční vrch. The Way of the Cross consists of fourteen stations, each a stone pillar on a pedestal with a niche holding a Passion scene and a stone cross on top. It was commissioned by Franz Killian and consecrated on 4 June 1878 during a mission; the whole route was restored in 1991, so the stations remain in good condition today.

What will you see along the way?

Beyond the Stations of the Cross themselves, the hill also forms part of the green-marked Špičák educational nature trail, which has ten themed stops — a good way to combine the historical walk with some nature-trail learning along the route. The terrain is wooded throughout, making for a quiet, shaded walk that's a pleasant option on hot days. The route itself is short and undemanding, which makes it suitable for families with children and for anyone looking for a brief outing without committing to a full day trip.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for the walk, when the forest path is less crowded and temperatures are comfortable for longer strolls. In summer, the tree cover keeps the trail pleasantly shaded even on hot days. In winter the ground can get snowy and slippery, so sturdy footwear is worth packing if you plan to visit outside the summer months.

Who is this destination for?

Šibeniční vrch appeals mainly to visitors interested in local history and to anyone who enjoys a short walk that blends a sacred route — the Way of the Cross — with a wooded, natural setting. It's also a solid choice for travellers staying overnight in Třešť who want something to do on foot, without needing a car — the walk from the town centre takes relatively little time.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the walk to Šibeniční vrch take? The route is short and easy. Starting from the centre of Třešť, passing the cemetery and the Way of the Cross, it typically takes no more than half an hour to an hour, depending on your pace and how many stations you stop at.

Is the trail suitable for children? Yes. The path is gentle and runs through forest, making it a good fit for families. Combining it with the stops along the Špičák nature trail adds extra variety for younger visitors.

Why is the hill called "Gallows Hill"? The name refers to its historical role as an execution site, where a gallows once stood and death sentences were carried out. No physical trace of that period survives today, but the name itself keeps the history alive.

Are there any religious monuments on the way up? Yes — the route leading to the summit includes fourteen Stations of the Cross dating from 1878 and restored in 1991, each a stone pillar with a Passion niche and a cross on top.