CZ: Libnikovice - Let's Go To Look Out Tower

The village of Libníkovice is placed in Hradec Králové Region, 12 kilometres distant from Hradec Králové, forming a part of Černilov Micro-Region. The locality is divided into three sections, such as: Borovice, Horní Černilov and Libníkovice. Cadastral surface of the community which is placed in the altitude of 270 metres above sea level, makes 321 ha. At present, Libníkovice has totally 148 inhabitants. As far as civil equipment is concerned, the locality does not miss water- and gas-conduit, foodstuff shop, sporting playground, wireless broadcast, including wireles internet connection or public library, having its seat in recently reconstructed spaces of communal office. Apart of this, also fire brigade body is active in the village.

History   

The locality of Libníkovice was probably founded in 13th century, however, more detailed news about such fact was not handed down. At the beginning of 16th century, Libníkovice is mentioned as a part of Ledce stronghold. In 1482, the community of Ledce was in possession of certain Daniel from Šárov. This person was an owner of Libníkovice at the same time. In the second half of 16th century, Wenceslas Šarovec, Daniel´s son, sold Libníkovice to William Trčka, an owner of Smiřice dominion. The community was under rule of this dominion till time period when statutory labour was cancelled. During that time, new ponds were founded in this area, there were sixty units altogether, whereas only in Libkovice, there were thirteen water reservoirs available.

Look Out Tower

The existence of very old memorable linden-tree is joined with a history of this locality. The age of this tree which is placed on top of 285 metres high hill,was estimated up to 350 years.The people called it „National Lime“. Inside its tall and extensive top, a floor was made, where various  musical concerts were taken place. So, the first concert was realized there just in 1890, during firemen celebration. However, later, in 1925, the area was attacked with whirlwind, and as a consequence of its storm, this memorable tree was destroyed. So, the corporation decided to construct a look out tower on top of the hill, as a substitution for destroyed lime. The respective project was effected by Joseph Černý, building and construction locksmith from Třebechovice. Total costs for look out tower construction made CZK 17 thousands, most of it was collected by locality citizens themselves. The look out tower was solemnly open for public on 12th July 1930. Later, after many years, in 1992, the reconstruction was made. The look out tower has construction made from iron, and it is 15 metres high. The top can be reached, climbing over 70 stages upstairs. However, the outlook was rather limited, owing to higher trees in the environs. Anyway, in 2005, thanks to partially trees´ cutting down in west direction, the view towards Polabí plainland was open. At present, this look out tower is entered in a book of Jan Nouza („Look Out Towers of Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia“) and also mentioned in cycling routes, frequently visited by tourists.

Text: Maxim Kucer

Translation: ing. Jan Jonáš

Photo: Libníkovice village