Stránka u Brandýsa nad Labem

“Lost beneath the waves,” a local whispered, “lie the bells of Klecan.” This tale, passed down through generations in Stránka u Brandýsa nad Labem, immediately captured my interest. Stránka u Brandýsa nad Labem, part of the larger Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav municipality, sits nestled along the Elbe River. Its history intertwines with the broader area, marked by a significant transition in 1960 when Brandýs nad Labem and Stará Boleslav merged. Before this, each town held its unique story. Stará Boleslav, known as a pilgrimage site connected to St. Wenceslas, contrasts sharply with Brandýs nad Labem’s royal ties to the Habsburgs. This merger created the longest town name in the Czech Republic: Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav. Stránka u Brandýsa nad Labem itself became part of this new entity, carrying its own intriguing local lore like the legend of the Klecan bells. According to the story, these bells were borrowed for the consecration of St. Wenceslas Church in Stránka. However, every night, the bells flew back to Klecan, chanting, “Hou-hou! The Klecan bells are coming! Coming – coming!” One night, a coachman crossing the Elbe bridge cursed the bells. They sadly replied, “Coming! Coming! Not arriving!” and plummeted into the river. Even today, some believe you can still see the bells at the bottom of the old Elbe riverbed, or hear their mournful chime during high water: “Coming! Coming! Not arriving!” This blend of history and myth makes Stránka u Brandýsa nad Labem a captivating place to explore, its stories whispering secrets of a rich past.