Štěpánský rybník

Štěpánský rybník is the largest pond in the Rokycany region and a protected natural monument, set on a slope right above the railway line connecting Prague and Plzeň, near the village of Mýto. It covers roughly 56 hectares and has held protected status since 1989 thanks to its outstanding geological and paleontological value.

Where does the pond come from and what is its history?

The pond is part of an old chain of ponds built along the Holoubkovský stream, a system that once powered the local economy of the surrounding villages. Some evidence links its origin to Štěpán Netolický, a renowned pond-builder active in Bohemia in the medieval and Renaissance period, which is likely where the pond's name comes from. For centuries, the pond network on the Holoubkovský stream served fish farming and helped manage water levels across the region.

Why does Štěpánský rybník matter to geologists?

The nature protection here centers on rock exposures in the uppermost layers of the Klabava Formation, part of the Czech Ordovician. It is a classic fossil-bearing site preserving marine fauna hundreds of millions of years old. For several species of trilobites and brachiopods, Štěpánský rybník serves as the type locality — the place where the species was first scientifically described. This scientific significance is the main reason the site was designated a natural monument.

What archaeological finds have turned up nearby?

The area around the pond also holds traces of much later, though still ancient, history. During a survey carried out in 2010, a bronze axe dating to the Hallstatt period was discovered near the pond. The find confirms that the land around today's pond was already settled by Celtic populations long before the pond itself was created.

Can you swim and relax at Štěpánský rybník?

Beyond its role in fish farming and its scientific value, Štěpánský rybník is also a popular spot for recreation. In the summer months, its shores draw residents of Mýto and the surrounding area who come for swimming and relaxing by the water. Thanks to its large surface area and scenic setting on a slope above the valley, the pond combines a recreational function with genuine natural heritage value — a combination that is not always common in the Czech Republic, since many natural monuments have limited public access.

Frequently asked questions

How large is Štěpánský rybník? The pond covers about 56 hectares, making it the largest pond in the Rokycany region.

Since when has Štěpánský rybník been protected? It has held natural monument status since 1989.

Why is this site scientifically important? The Klabava Formation exposures from the Czech Ordovician are a classic paleontological site and the type locality for several species of trilobites and brachiopods.

Can visitors swim there? Yes, in summer the pond is a popular bathing and relaxation spot for local residents.

What archaeological find was made near the pond? In 2010, a bronze axe from the Hallstatt period was discovered nearby, evidence of Celtic settlement in the area.