Complete Travel Guide to Sušice, Czech Republic
Comprehensive travel guide to Sušice, Czech Republic. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
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- Country:Czech Republic
- State/Province:Plzeň-jih
- Population:10740

States in Czech Republic
- Jihomoravský kraj
- Jihočeský kraj
- Karlovarský kraj
- Kraj Vysočina
- Královéhradecký kraj
- Liberecký kraj
- Moravskoslezský kraj
- Olomoucký kraj
- Pardubický kraj
- Plzeň-jih
- Praha, Hlavní město
- Středočeský kraj
- Zlín
- Ústecký kraj
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Complete Travel Guide to Sušice, Czech Republic
Sušice Sušice is a town in Klatovy District in the Plzeň Region of the Czech Republic. It has about 11,000 inhabitants. The historic town centre is well preserved and is protected as an urban monument zone. Positioned at coordinates 49.23106°N, 13.52018°E, Sušice occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Sušice place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 472.0 meters above sea level, Sušice benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Sušice creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 10740 residents, Sušice maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Sušice represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Sušice reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Czech Republic, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Plzeň-jih province, Sušice contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Czech Republic's regional character. The role of Sušice in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Sušice discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Czech Republic while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.
Historical Heritage of Sušice
History Sušice originated as a settlement near the Otava River, a gold-mining area The settlement was probably founded around 790, however the first written mention is from 1233 In the 12th century, the area was owned by the Bavarian Counts of Bogen It was re-connected to Bohemia by King Ottokar II in the 13th century and after 1260 it became a royal fortified town.
During the Hussite Wars (1419–1434), Sušice was a Hussite town The town's major economic growth occurred in the 16th century, when the town profited from the salt, grain and malt trade with neighbouring Bavaria In the 17th and 18th centuries, Sušice suffered from wars, fires and the Counter-Reformation.
The most devastating was the fire of 1707, which destroyed most of the town In the 19th century, new prosperity came The production of phosphorus matches started here and made Sušice famous all over the world The leather industry also developed in the town, and at the end of the 19th century, the mining and processing of limestone was started.
Until 1918, _Sušice – Schüttenhoffen_ was part of the Austrian monarchy (Austrian side after the compromise of 1867) The town was an administrative seat of the district of the same name, one of the 94 _Bezirkshauptmannschaften_ in Bohemia #Jewish community The first written mention of Jews in Sušice is from 1562.
The number of Jews in Sušice gradually increased and reached its peak in 1860, when 300 lived here A pogrom occurred in 1866, then the population decreased and in 1930 only 112 Jews lived in Sušice They had a reserved part of the town for living, which was accessible only from the town walls (today's Vodní, formerly Židovská (i.
"Jewish") street) Three synagogues were located in Sušice The first was a wooden prayer house, which burned down in 1707 A new synagogue was built on its site, which served until 1923, when it also burned down A third synagogue was in operation from 1859, which served its purpose until the World War II.
After the war, it became the property of the town and was demolished in 1963 The old Jewish cemetery was established in 1626, the last burial took place there in 1873 After its capacity was no longer sufficient, a new cemetery was founded in 1873, where the last burial took place in 1946.
^ _**a**_ _**b**_ "Historie Sušice" (in Czech) Retrieved 12 December 2022 Die postalischen Abstempelungen auf den österreichischen Postwertzeichen-Ausgaben 1867, 1883 und 1890, Wilhelm Klein, 1967 3 ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ "Židovské hřbitovy střední Šumavy – Stručné dějiny židů v Sušici" (in Czech).
Retrieved 12 December 2022.
The historical trajectory of Sušice demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.
Historical preservation efforts in Sušice reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.
The legacy of historical development in Sušice remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.
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Geographic Environment and Natural Setting
Geography Sušice is located about 24 kilometres (15 mi) southeast of Klatovy and 56 km (35 mi) south of Plzeň. It lies in the Bohemian Forest Foothills. The highest point is the hill Sedlo at 902 m (2,959 ft) above sea level. The Otava River flows through the town. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Sušice, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The Ostružná River flows into the Otava in the north of Sušice. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Sušice, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. #Climate Average daily temperature in July is about 17. 8 °F), while January mean temperatures are typically −2. The annual average is 7. Climate data for Sušice Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 0. 8) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 5) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −5. 2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 68 (2. 6) Source: Climate-Data. "Sušice Climate". Retrieved 12 December 2022.
The topographic characteristics of Sušice result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.
Hydrological systems in the Sušice region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.
Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Sušice area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.
Natural resource availability in Sušice has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.
The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Sušice demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Sušice create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.
Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions
#Climate Average daily temperature in July is about 17. Temperature patterns in Sušice influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 8 °F), while January mean temperatures are typically −2. Temperature patterns in Sušice influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. The annual average is 7. Climate data for Sušice Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 0. 8) Daily mean °C (°F) −2. 5) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −5. 2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 68 (2. Rainfall patterns in Sušice determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 6) Source: Climate-Data. “Sušice Climate”. Retrieved 12 December 2022.
The climatic regime of Sušice reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.
Temperature variations in Sušice create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.
Precipitation patterns in Sušice determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.
Seasonal weather patterns in Sušice create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.
The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Sušice demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Climate considerations for visitors to Sušice include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.
Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions
Demographics Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Sušice reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 18696,796— 18807,671+12. ±% 198011,047+16. 4% Source: Censuses 1. “Historický lexikon obcí České republiky 1869–2011” (in Czech). Czech Statistical Office. 21 December 2015. “Population Census 2021: Population by sex”. The demographic composition of Sušice reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Public Database. Czech Statistical Office. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Sušice reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.
The cultural landscape of Sušice represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.
Social organization in Sušice reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.
Traditional arts and crafts in Sušice continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.
Religious and spiritual practices in Sušice provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.
Language use and cultural expression in Sušice demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.
Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Sušice provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Activities and Development Patterns
Economy SOLO headquarters Sušice was known for the production of matches, under the SOLO brand. The factory was founded by Vojtěch Scheinost in 1839, and production was financed by entrepreneur Bernard Fürth. The industry continued until 2008, when it ended due to financial problems. Production was then moved to India, and the enterprise was transformed into a trading company dealing in related goods (matches, lighters, etc. "Příběh značky" (in Czech). SOLO MATCHES & FLAMES, a. Retrieved 27 December 2020. "Solo Sušice končí s výrobou zápalek, přesune ji do Indie" (in Czech). 31 December 2008. Retrieved 27 December 2020.
The economic structure of Sušice reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Traditional economic activities in Sušice often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.
Local markets and commercial activities in Sušice serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.
Agricultural production in Sušice demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.
Service sector development in Sušice has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Sušice focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
Transport Sušice is located on the regional railway line heading from Klatovy to Horažďovice. “Detail stanice Sušice” (in Czech). Retrieved 5 July 2023.
Transportation infrastructure serving Sušice reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Czech Republic. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Sušice.
Regional connectivity from Sušice provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.
Planning Your Visit to Sušice
Successful visits to Sušice require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.
The most meaningful experiences in Sušice often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.
Practical considerations for visiting Sušice include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The rewards of visiting Sušice extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.
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