Two workers, dressed in traditional work clothes, are pulling wood out of the Alluvial Canal.
Two workers, dressed in traditional work clothes, are pulling wood out of the Alluvial Canal.

The Schwarzenberg Alluvial Canal

Rosenauer's Engineering Marvel

Zahlreiche Holzschwemmer bei der Arbeit. Schwarzweißfoto.

Nestled within the Bohemian Forest is a remarkable feat of historic engineering, often hailed as the "gentle eighth wonder of the world". The ingenious canal system was designed by engineer Josef Rosenauer in the 18th century to tackle the shortage of firewood in the rapidly expanding imperial capitol of Vienna. During its prime, the canal system facilitated the transportation of an astounding amount of wood and provided employment to many. However, in the 20th century, cheaper and more efficient methods of transporting firewood emerged, leading to the canal's decline and eventual obscurity. It was not until the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 that the Schwarzenberg Alluvial Canal was brought back into the limelight and opened to visitors.

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Experience the beauty of the Alluvial Canal by foot or by bike.

Step Back in Time: Experience Traditional Log Floating Practices

During the summer months, the Alluvial Canal plays host to a variety of cultural events, offering visitors the chance to witness traditional log floating practices performed by participants wearing period garb.

Explore Event Calendar