75 years ago, the observation tower on Velký Blaník was opened to the public

Prague - The lookout tower built on Velký Blaník, which, at 638 meters above sea level, is a natural dominant feature of the Blaník Protected Landscape Area, was officially opened to the public 75 years ago, on June 4, 1941. The wooden tower, shaped like a Hussite watchtower and covered with shingles, is 30 meters tall, and visitors ascend to the viewing platform at a height of 25 meters via 107 steps.

The lookout tower is the third in succession. The first viewpoint was constructed at the summit of Velký Blaník in 1835 by Cardinal František Count Schönborn, and in addition to providing a view of the landscape beneath Blaník, it also served as a triangulation point for visitors.

In 1914, Prague Archbishop Lev Skrbenský from Hříště built a new lookout tower on Blaník - a 20-meter tall tower of open wooden construction, which could only be accessed via ladders. However, it quickly fell into disrepair and collapsed in 1936 under the force of the wind.

The current lookout tower was prepared by the Club of Czech Tourists in 1939, and its design was developed by Alexander Hanuš. It was completed during the Protectorate in 1941, but wartime events influenced its appearance, as the construction of a bell tower above the entrance was abandoned by decision of the Ministry of Trade.