Discover geological processes spanning hundreds of millions of years.
Although the most intense geological activity in the Czech-Bavarian Geopark ceased more than five million years ago, ongoing volcanism, tectonic activity and thermal water springs still attract both enthusiasts and experts today. Visit the geopark and discover its valuable mineral wealth.
What exactly is a geopark?
The relatively little-known term “geopark” refers to a geologically valuable area that contributes to regional development and visitor education. In addition to rock formations, geological attractions, quarries, mines and caves, the site should also offer cultural, ecological and historical points of interest.
There are currently eight geoparks in the Czech Republic. Besides Geopark Egeria, these include the Železné hory Geopark, the GeoLoci National Geopark in the Tachov area, the Podbeskydí Geopark, the Land of the Knights of Blaník in the Central Bohemian Region, the Ralsko Geopark near Česká Lípa, and, most recently, a geopark in the Vysočina Region.
The Most Interesting Mineral Sites in Geopark Egeria
It is precisely the geological and geomorphological attractions that draw visitors to Geopark Egeria. The forces of the Earth have created deep valleys, massive rock formations and mysterious peat bogs. The Kladská and Boží Dar Peat Bogs, the Svatoš Rocks, the Smraďoch Nature Reserve, Krásný vrch, Andělská hora and many other places are certainly worth visiting.
Since the Middle Ages, brown coal, ceramic raw materials, ores and precious metals have been mined at many locations across the Karlovy Vary Region. Many mining monuments are also preserved in an exceptionally good condition. If you are interested in the region’s mining history, do not miss Jáchymov, Horní Slavkov, Hřebečná, Krásno, Přebuz or the Blatná Ditch. However, this is only a small selection – Geopark Egeria contains countless mining landmarks.
Tertiary volcanism also had a major influence on the final form of the landscape. Volcanic vents created regular hills that were ideal for building defensive medieval castles. Look for traces of volcanic activity at Andělská hora, Komorní hůrka, Krásný vrch or Vlčí hora.
Mineral Springs and Palaeontological Finds
Did you know that many minerals were first discovered in the Karlovy Vary Region? A number of local deposits rank among the richest in the world, especially Jáchymov, where more than 320 minerals have been found and new ones continue to be identified. In addition to Jáchymov, visit Dřenice, Horní Slavkov, Krásno, Horní Blatná, Přebuz and Zlatý kopec.
Mineral springs and spa towns are also important features of Geopark Egeria. In addition to Karlovy Vary, Františkovy Lázně, Mariánské Lázně, Jáchymov and Lázně Kynžvart, mineral water and gas springs can be found at many natural sites. Explore the Smraďoch Nature Reserve, Soos, Horse Spring, the Milhostov Mofettes or Reitenberger’s Spring.
