Experience adventure in the heart of nature, spend time with friends around the campfire and awaken in yourself the spirit of freedom – that’s what tramping is about. This phenomenon, which took root in the Czech Republic at the beginning of the 20th century, has become part of our cultural history. And Posázaví played a significant role in its development. Let’s look together at the history of tramping in the Czech Republic and the importance of Posázaví for this unforgettable tradition.
What is Tramping?
Tramping, as a form of resistance to urbanization and the desire for nature, was primarily inspired by the American Wild West. The term ‘tramp’ itself probably entered the Czech language through a contemporary translation from a book by the American writer Jack London, specifically his novel The Road.
Tramping in the Czech Republic
The first Czech tramp settlement was founded in 1919 near Svatojeanské streams and was called Ztracená naděje, abbreviated Ztracenka. During the First Republic, young people began to seek escape to the Czech meadows and groves due to the development of industry and the concentration of people in the big cities. Tramping was a symbol of freedom and independence, both ideologically and physically. Czech tramps were not lacking in love for nature, adventurous spirit, and above all a well-tuned guitar.
Tramping near Prague
Romantic scenery was widely sought after, especially near Prague and other big cities. The development of tramping was especially helped by the dense railway network. One example is the railway line Prague – Čerčany, which trampers named the Posázavský Pacifik. Thanks to this popular local route, several tramp settlements began to emerge along the Sázava Canyon. And since gold was previously panned in the area, the Sázava was named the Golden River. Posázaví became one of the main tramping centres in the Czech Republic.
During the Nazi occupation and the communist era, tramping was cruelly suppressed for its freethinking. However, the desire for freedom and contact with nature remained in the hearts of many people. After the fall of communism in 1989, as a result of the opening of the borders and the newly acquired freedom, the interest in tramping gradually began to decline. However, its values related to environmental protection, hiking, camping and outdoor recreation are gaining renewed importance, especially in these accelerated times.
If you are fascinated by the story of tramping, do not hesitate to visit the Exposition of Tramping in Jílové u Prahy, where you can learn more about this phenomenon. It is located just 3 km from our cottage. You can also explore the Posázaví Trail, which will introduce you not only to the history of tramping, but also to boating and the construction of the Posázavský Pacific. But more about that next time…