SVATY JAN POD SKALOU (Saint John under the Cliff) with its abundance of natural scenery and historical landmarks, is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cesky Kras natural protected area. The history of the village dates back to the end of the 9th century when, according to legend, the first Czech Christian hermit, Ivan, settled down in a cave under a large cliff. THE SAINT IVAN LEGEND The hermit Ivan, worshipped as a saint, lived in local travertine caves, which have been preserved up to the present day. Ivan was the son of the Charvatian duke Gostimysl. Legend has it that he turned away from secular life and retreated to this sile ...