Podhorni vrch, Nature reserve in Ovesné Kladruby, Czech Republic.
Podhorní vrch is a forested mountain in Ovesné Kladruby with two distinct peaks rising above the surrounding landscape. The area is now protected as a nature reserve and serves as an important green space in the region.
The mountain formed during the Tertiary period through volcanic activity, creating unique geological formations beneath its surface. Following World War II, the site transitioned from quarrying operations to protected status, becoming a nature reserve.
Local stories speak of a mountain spirit dwelling in the rocks and controlling weather patterns, a belief that shaped how people viewed and used this place over centuries.
The reserve can be accessed through various hiking routes with different difficulty levels depending on where you start your walk. Good footwear is important, and it is helpful to check local conditions before setting out.
The rock formations contain olivine-nephelinite dating back around 17 million years, studied and collected by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Samples from this site were brought to his collection in Weimar and remain preserved there.
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