The story of Josef Menčík, the last Czech knight (7 photos)

When we hear the word "knight," images of medieval castles, tournaments, and sword fights conjure up. But what if I told you that the last Czech knight lived not in the distant past, but in the 20th century? Meet Josef Menčík—the man who embodied the spirit of chivalry in the age of tanks and machines. His story is a mixture of courage, eccentricity, and a love of the past that still inspires today.





The Beginning of the Journey: From Landowner to Fortress Keeper

Josef Menčík is often called the last Czech knight. This isn't entirely true, as this man was likely the last knight in Europe, and perhaps even the world. Josef proudly claimed this title for himself, but it soon became clear that he rightfully so. Menčík's actions were truly chivalrous, and he himself became a legend even in his lifetime.

Josef Menčík was born around 1870 to a family of Czech landowners. His exact date of birth is lost to history, but it is known that from childhood he was fascinated by tales of knights and their exploits. In 1911, fate gave him the chance to make his dream come true. He purchased the Dobrša Fortress, an ancient structure destroyed by fire. This fortification, dating back to the 14th century, belonged to the ancient Schwarzenberg family. The impoverished noble family decided not to restore the fortress, but sold it in a dilapidated state. For many, it would have been just a piece of land in ruins, but for Josef, it was a true treasure.



The Dobrsha Fortress Today

He took on the restoration with enthusiasm. Menchik didn't just restore the walls—he collected medieval artifacts to restore the fortress to its former glory. Menchik had a collection of antique armor, which he sometimes wore. They say he even bought armor and weapons on the black market and smuggled them from France.

The Bearded Pope and the Local Celebrity

A man in steel armor, on horseback, with a sword, rode through the surrounding villages and towns, telling people about the old days and chivalry. Josef invited everyone on tours of the castle and was especially welcoming to young people. The locals nicknamed him "Fousatý táta"—"Bearded Pope"—and "The Last Knight." And that was just the beginning.





Josef Menčik

Soon, Josef Menčik was called the "Czech Don Quixote." Some even thought he was nuts. But that wasn't true—Menčik wasn't crazy. He was an incredibly passionate collector and an excellent reenactor. The owner of Dobrš Castle became a living legend and a local landmark.



Schoolchildren referred to him as "The Bearded Pope" or "The Last Knight." Josef himself was always friendly, welcoming, hospitable, and generous, as befits the knights of old romances. He never refused to help those in need, and at the same time, he demonstrated complete selflessness.

A Knight Against Tanks: A Feat of 1938

The most memorable moment in the life of Josef Menčik occurred in 1938, when Nazi Germany began annexing the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia. German tanks were moving across Czech soil, and few dared to oppose them. But Josef was different: he encountered the tanks on the road to Mencik Field. Clad in his finest armor, with sword and lance, the Last Knight blocked the column's path.



Nazis in the Sudetenland. 1938

The Germans were taken aback by this encounter, but they didn't bother with the knight. They twirled their fingers at their temples, took a few picturesque photos, and carefully rode around the rider on the side of the road. This act, of course, didn't stop the invasion, but it became a symbol of resistance.

Castle Life: A Knight with a Kind Heart

After his encounter with the tanks, Josef returned to his fortress and continued to live the way he believed was right. Incidentally, the Germans left him alone—perhaps they decided this "knight" posed no threat. He pursued his passions: horseback riding, teaching young people about knightly traditions, and hosting guests. The locals adored him for his kindness and hospitality. They say he was always ready to help and share stories from the past.



Dobrš Fortress became more than just a home for him, but a true refuge where he preserved the spirit of the Middle Ages. Josef collected antique swords, shields, and armor, turning his home into a living museum. He dreamed that the younger generation would not forget honor and courage—the essential qualities of a true knight.

Last Years and Legacy

Josef Menčík lived to see the end of World War II and died on November 21, 1945, in the town of Strakonice. He was fortunate to see Czechoslovakia free of Nazi occupation. His death was not a major event, but the story of the last Czech knight remained etched in people's memories.



Today, he is remembered as a man who was unafraid to be himself. His 1938 act is not only a funny legend, but also an example of how one man can challenge an entire army, armed only with faith in his ideals. The Dobrša Fortress still stands, a reminder of its unusual owner.