The first written mention of the village of Drslavice comes from 1384, but experts claim that the local guard fortress was probably founded 200 years earlier. It was originally a ruler’s dwelling that looked like a fairy tale castle in the Middle Ages, then it was converted into a large farmhouse, a blacksmith forge, and finally a granary. It stands on the elevated edge of what was once a glorious manor estate.
Today’s owner Zdeněk Švejda, a former fighter pilot, and his wife Věra are convinced that the local well in the middle of the fortress is of Celtic origin; according to experts, there is no better water in the surrounding area. For almost thirteen years, it has been the only source of water for the owners.
Although the fortress was once a barter property of the Černíns of Chudenice and the Schwarzenbergs, the land reforms left their mark on the estate’s history. From the 19th century, the fortress and the estate were sold out in pieces, and they were eventually purchased by Zdeněk Švejda’s great-grandfather. His son (Zdeněk’s grandfather) also bought the granary in 1931, but he left Czechoslovakia in 1947 in fear for the nation’s future. It was not until the inheritance process after the death of the grandmother that it was discovered that the Schwarzenberg Hall, today the main room of the repaired fortress, was never sold. Zdeněk Švejda then promised his father before his death that he would buy up the remaining parts and rescue the entire fortress. This promise is now the main motivation for the complete reconstruction.
Devotion and bravery are often redeemed by fatigue, but the Švejdas are not giving up. Still, they would be happy if the property would start to pay for itself. The pub and social hall have been beautifully restored, there are more rooms on the ground floor, and the first accommodations will be ready soon – including the room which Petr Vok of Rožmberk once lived in. Zdeněk Švejda has traded his flying for a trowel and hammer. He has found common ground with historical preservationists, who have taught him to recognize historical remains; he has also learned well that what is once destroyed will never return. Part of the fortress’ cladding has already been painted, and when it’s finished, a newly-approved coat of arms with three airplanes will be installed at a suitable location. After all, flying has been in the Švejda family for five generations, just like its fighting spirit. The family’s reconstruction is being carried on by his son Josef.
A visit is possible after prior agreement, but since it’s still a construction site, caution and patience are strongly advised.
Nearby tips: Husinec This is a picturesque little town located about 8 km from the village of Drslavice. It takes its name from the important church reformer Master Jan Hus (John Huss). His former home features an exhibition entitled “The Life and Work of Master Jan Hus”.