Podlesí

Location: a village on the left bank of the Litavka stream’s floodplain, at the foot of the Brdy Hills, 2 km west of Příbram. Mixed forests on the western side of the village, including Dubová hora (625.5 metres above sea level) and Malá Dubová hora (570 metres above sea level). The majority of the cadastral area (up to two-thirds) is covered by forest. Approximately 2 km to the west lie Malá Třemešná (701.3 m above sea level) and Třemešná (778.6 m above sea level)

Area of the cadastral territory: 438 ha

Population: 856

The first written records of the village date back to 1527. This mining village, too, is historically linked to silver mining in the Příbram region. The village’s name reflects its location – beneath the forest.  In the 18th century, mining became the dominant form of human activity and shaped the character of many villages, including Podlesí. Mining villages are characterised by a distinctive type of dwelling lacking the usual farm buildings. The distinctiveness of mining culture is best illustrated by a craft typical of the entire Příbram region – nativity scene carving. Podlesí nativity scenes are even distinctive for their naïve carving style. Today, Podlesí is best known for its annual summer theatre festival held in the Skalka open-air venue, where the Skalka amateur theatre group performs. Thanks to its wonderful atmosphere, it is also a popular venue for country and folk concerts. Other traditional cultural events include a Christmas get-together for the elderly, the End-of-School-Year Celebration, the Children’s Carnival and the Havelské posvícení festival.

Eating and drinking: Za Komínem pub, tel: 318 637 432; U Stočesů wine bar, tel: 318 620 473

Sports facilities: Sokol Podlesí sports complex – football pitch, tennis courts, Kášův Pond

Postcode: 261 01 Příbram

Transport links: Public transport no. 5 and Veolia Transport buses running the Příbram – Sádek – Obecnice route, departing from the bus station in Příbram

Village hall: Podlesí 81

Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday: 7.30 am – 11.30 am, 12.30 pm – 5.00 pm; Tuesday, Thursday: 7.30 am – 11.30 am, 12.30 – 15.00 Friday: 7.30 – 11.30 Telephone: 318 627 127, 605 252 101, 318 637 603, email: ou.podlesi@iol.cz