The basic condition for mining and processing ores in historical mining districts was sufficient water power. Water from natural streams and artificial canals was used to drive water-extraction machines and treatment plants and to transport construction and firewood. The situation was no different in the Upper Blatná tin district. A water ditch was built for it from the northern edge of the Božídarské peat bog through Myslivny, Ryžovna, Bludná and the northern slope of Blatenský vrch to Horní Blatná, where it is piped and drained into the Blatenský stream. The ditch retained its functionality for centuries. As a source of water for the Blatenský factories and fire protection, it was regularly maintained until 1945. In 1980 it was declared an immovable cultural monument and was completely reconstructed between 1995 and 2001.
Boží Dar
An educational trail runs along the Blatenský ditch. It starts at Boží Dar and connects to the nature trail to Blatenský vrch and Vlčí jámy above Horní Blatná. Significant tin deposits were mined on the slopes of Blatenský vrch (1043 m), a hilly forested peak built up by granites of the so-called Blatenský massif. The main Wolfgang tin mine was in operation as early as 1532. Later it was drained by the hereditary Vavřinec adit (Laurenzi-Stollen), which was mined from 1749 as a municipal one.
Photo 1: The beginning of the ditch at the dam on the Černá River
Photo 2: Wolf Pits
Photo 3: Map of the Blatná Water Moat