Hidden in a pine forest above the village of Želízy in the Mělník district, Čertovy hlavy — literally 'Devil's Heads' — is one of the most jaw-dropping outdoor sculptures you'll ever stumble upon. Two colossal faces, each around 9 metres tall, are carved directly into sandstone boulders, making them the second largest rock head reliefs in the world, surpassed only by Mount Rushmore. It's the kind of place that makes you stop and stare in disbelief.

The reliefs were chiselled by sculptor Václav Levý between 1841 and 1846, inspired by figures from ancient mythology and shaped by the spirit of Romanticism. The surrounding pine forest lends the site a moody, almost mystical atmosphere — especially on misty autumn mornings or in the long shadows of a winter afternoon. Since the trees in front of the reliefs were cleared in 2011, the massive faces are now visible from the main road, offering a striking first impression even before you reach the trail.

• Želízy (village office) — blue trail marker, easy walk, suitable for all ages and fitness levels
• The trail continues south to the Klácelka cave, featuring reliefs of prominent figures from Czech history
• About 2.5 km northwest of Želízy along the marked trail you'll find more rock carvings — Harfenice and Had (the Harp Player and the Snake), created between 1840 and 1845

• Free admission, open access at all times
• The reliefs are already significantly weathered and damaged by people climbing on them — please admire from a distance
• Location: Želízy village, Mělník district, Czech Republic

Here's a fun fact to share with your hiking companions: at the time of their creation, these carvings were a completely unique artistic feat in Bohemia, and nearly 180 years later, they still hold their title as the largest rock reliefs of their kind in Central Europe.