Tajemné stezky - Za skrytou krásou Ašska – Česal Aleš (2026)

This Czech-language book by well-known nonfiction author Aleš Česal, twice awarded the prestigious Polan Literary Prize, returns to the westernmost reaches of the country and explores the Ašsko region from a less familiar perspective. Six years after briefly visiting the area in his book on the hidden beauty of the Cheb region, Česal turns his attention to its history, nature, mysteries, legends and other points of interest. Chapters on the oldest history introduce mysterious runes and circular hillforts known as ringwalls, while others follow the noble families that shaped local life and the landscape and visit their residences, some of which are slowly returning to life after years of devastation. The book also examines the history of churches, chapels and other small sacred monuments, as well as dark events from modern history, Freemasons, mysterious legends, folk magic and superstitions. A brief excursion crosses the German border to towns and villages that are worth seeing. The text is accompanied by numerous historic photographs and postcards, together with contemporary photographs.