How Life Returned to the Old Mill
The story of Čítkův Mill dates back to the 18th century and reflects the changes of time, people, and the entire region. Discover the journey of a place that has survived centuries, decline, and rebirth.
Three Centuries of the Kümpfel Miller Family
The history of our mill goes deep into the 18th century. The first records take us to the year 1741, when the miller Adam Kümpfel lived and worked here. For a full two hundred years, the mill was the home and livelihood of many generations of this family.
It witnessed the times when grain was milled into flour, as well as the era of industrial prosperity, when the mill wheel began to turn to power a sawmill. The mill even survived a devastating fire in the 1930s, after which it rose from the ashes.
Three Centuries of the Kümpfel Miller Family
The history of our mill goes deep into the 18th century. The first records take us to the year 1741, when the miller Adam Kümpfel lived and worked here. For a full two hundred years, the mill was the home and livelihood of many generations of this family.
It witnessed the times when grain was milled into flour, as well as the era of industrial prosperity, when the mill wheel began to turn to power a sawmill. The mill even survived a devastating fire in the 1930s, after which it rose from the ashes.
The Rebirth of Čítkův Mill: From Prosperity to Complete Ruin
The post-war era brought the mill new owners in 1945, the Čítek family, whose name it still bears today. This marked the beginning of a new and varied chapter in its existence. Twenty years later, the mill became a refuge for students of the forestry school in Šluknov, who gained their first practical experience with nature here as part of the school forest district.
In 1975, the mill was taken over by the State Farm in Roudnice nad Labem, which transformed it into a popular recreation center. Between 1976 and 1981, the building underwent extensive reconstruction — the walls and ceilings were covered with tasteful wooden paneling and the mill came alive with lively social events.
In the 1990s, however, the most difficult trial came, one that almost sealed the fate of the mill forever. Due to complicated restitution processes, the building remained abandoned, protected only by the presence of a guard. An unfortunate lease in 1993 then meant disaster for the mill — within a short time, the equipment was sold off and the entire site was left devastated.
At the beginning of 1995, the sight of Čítkův Mill was heartbreaking: open doors, the interior completely destroyed, and the overall condition of the grounds and surroundings literally desperate. A monument that had survived centuries was then hanging by a thread, and it seemed that its story would end in ruins.
The Rebirth of Čítkův Mill: From Prosperity to Complete Ruin
The post-war era brought the mill new owners in 1945, the Čítek family, whose name it still bears today. This marked the beginning of a new and varied chapter in its existence. Twenty years later, the mill became a refuge for students of the forestry school in Šluknov, who gained their first practical experience with nature here as part of the school forest district.
In 1975, the mill was taken over by the State Farm in Roudnice nad Labem, which transformed it into a popular recreation center. Between 1976 and 1981, the building underwent extensive reconstruction — the walls and ceilings were covered with tasteful wooden paneling and the mill came alive with lively social events.
In the 1990s, however, the most difficult trial came, one that almost sealed the fate of the mill forever. Due to complicated restitution processes, the building remained abandoned, protected only by the presence of a guard. An unfortunate lease in 1993 then meant disaster for the mill — within a short time, the equipment was sold off and the entire site was left devastated.
At the beginning of 1995, the sight of Čítkův Mill was heartbreaking: open doors, the interior completely destroyed, and the overall condition of the grounds and surroundings literally desperate. A monument that had survived centuries was then hanging by a thread, and it seemed that its story would end in ruins.
Eleven Years of a Journey Back to the Original Spirit
In 2002, a new chapter began. The current owner decided to do the impossible: restore the devastated building to its former glory. What followed was a precise and patient reconstruction lasting 11 years. The goal was not only to create a guesthouse, but to preserve the “spirit of the mill”. Every beam, every wooden panel, and every detail was created with respect for the original architecture.
Today, you will find not only modern accommodation here, but living history in the heart of untouched nature. The most beautiful symbol of our efforts is the sound of the mill wheel, which, after many long years, is once again happily turning. We have saved this place for future generations, so that you too can slow down for a while and enjoy beautiful moments of rest with your loved ones in surroundings that have stood the test of time.
Eleven Years of a Journey Back to the Original Spirit
In 2002, a new chapter began. The current owner decided to do the impossible: restore the devastated building to its former glory. What followed was a precise and patient reconstruction lasting 11 years. The goal was not only to create a guesthouse, but to preserve the “spirit of the mill”. Every beam, every wooden panel, and every detail was created with respect for the original architecture.
Today, you will find not only modern accommodation here, but living history in the heart of untouched nature. The most beautiful symbol of our efforts is the sound of the mill wheel, which, after many long years, is once again happily turning. We have saved this place for future generations, so that you too can slow down for a while and enjoy beautiful moments of rest with your loved ones in surroundings that have stood the test of time.
