Vojna Lešetice Memorial

Located near Příbram, surrounded by forests, you'll find the unique and chilling Vojna Lešetice Memorial. Today, this site serves as a museum, but its history dates back to one of the darkest periods of the 20th century – the era of the totalitarian regime and injustice. It is also an exceptional travel tip for those who want to combine a nature walk with deep reflection on the past.

Where to Find the Memorial

The memorial is located approximately 5km southeast of Příbram, at an altitude of 582 m, on the border of the Lazsko, Lešetice, and Zavržice districts. Free parking for cars is available right at the entrance. You can get here by car, bike, or combine the visit with a hike through the surrounding woods.

What to Expect on Site

The area includes an authentically preserved complex of the former camp. Its exhibitions introduce you to stories of persecution after February 1948, anti-communist resistance, and the history of uranium mining. The displays are well-organized and very moving – you'll find original watchtowers, prisoner barracks, an interrogation room, and an exhibition dedicated to uranium mining and life in the labor camps. The atmosphere is further heightened by the surrounding forest, which still carries traces of history.

The visitor route follows a paved asphalt path, ensuring easy movement between individual buildings. However, please note that entrances to some historical buildings are not fully wheelchair accessible, which may be a limitation for visitors with mobility issues.

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History and Interesting Facts

The camp was originally built between 1947-1949 by German prisoners of war as a labor facility near deposits of iron, silver, and primarily uranium ore. The name "Vojna" comes from the nearby Vojna hill (666 m above sea level) at whose foot it lies.

After February 1948, following the communist coup, the camp began to be used for a different purpose – as a forced labor facility for politically "unreliable" citizens. Between 1949-1951, people were interned here without trial, simply for disagreeing with the regime. After 1951, the camp served as a prison for political prisoners until 1961.

Today, the memorial commemorates the fates of thousands who suffered here – not only through exhibitions but through the preserved site itself. Additionally, scenes from the famous Czech series "Zdivočelá země" (The Land Gone Wild), which is inspired by this era, were filmed here.

Route Tip

I recommend combining the visit with a short walk through the forest – for example, starting from the nearby villages of Lešetice or Zavržice. The local forests are quiet, permeated by the atmosphere of the site, giving the walk to the complex an even stronger emotional impact.

Parking

Free parking for cars is located directly in front of the complex.

My Rating and Recommendation

A visit to the Vojna Memorial is a very powerful experience – it’s definitely not a "classic trip," but a profound reminder of the lack of freedom, injustice, and the courage of people who stood up to the regime. I recommend it especially to those interested in history, but also to anyone who wants to better understand what our society has gone through. Both adults and older children will find an important lesson here.

At the reception, you will be welcomed by very kind and helpful staff who are happy to advise, explain everything, and help with orientation around the grounds. The entire area is also well-marked and maintained for visitors of all ages.

FAQ / Extra Facts

• Opening Hours:

    • Jan, Mar, Nov, Dec: Tuesday to Friday 9 AM - 4 PM
    • Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct: Tuesday to Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM
    • July and August: Tuesday to Sunday 9 AM - 6 PM

• Admission:

    • Adults: 60 CZK
    • Children, students, seniors: 40 CZK
    • Family (2 adults + 2-4 children): 160 CZK

    • Foreign language tour: + 100% surcharge

    • ISIC, ITIC, EYCA, IYTC, and Disability (ZTP) cardholders: 50% discount

    • Members of the Confederation of Political Prisoners: 1 CZK

    • Other discounted entries available - info on site

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Captured on June 18, 2025.