The origin of the name is uncertain. According to the most probable theory, the initial name of the settlement was Úseč, derived from the personal name Úsek. Through the genitivs Úšče and then Úště, it was distorted to Úštěk.[2]
Geography
Úštěk is located about 15 kilometres (9 mi) northeast of Litoměřice and 22 km (14 mi) southeast of Ústí nad Labem. The municipal territory lies mostly in the Ralsko Uplands, but it also extends into the Central Bohemian Uplands in the north, where is located the highest point of Úštěk, the hill Pohorský vrch at 601 m (1,972 ft) above sea level. The town is situated on the strem Úštěcký potok and on the shore of the Chmelař Pond.
History
Synagogue and Rabbi's house
According to archaeological excavations, the area of Úštěk was inhabited from the 10th century. The importance of Úštěk has increased in the 14th century. Around 1361, the settlement was promoted to a town. In 1475, the town was acquired by marriage by the noble family of Sezima of Ústí. Under their rule, Úštěk prospered and grew rapidly, which lasted until the Battle of White Mountain in 1620. In 1622, the Úštěk property was confiscated and fell to Prague and Litoměřice Jesuits.[3]
The I/15 road (the section from Česká Lípa to Litoměřice) passes through the town.
Úštěk is located on the railway line Česká Lípa–Postoloprty.[6]
Sights
Town fortifications with the Pikart Tower
The town is renowned for its medieval centre, formed by Mírové Square and its surroundings. On the square, houses with Gothic gables have been preserved. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul on the square was built in the late Baroque style in 1764–1772.[7]
The historic centre is delimited by remains of town walls. The Pikart Tower is the largest and strongest tower of the town fortification. It is a sandstone tower built in 1428.[7]
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