A father and son recently stumbled across a massive cache of old artillery shells in a Czech forest, triggering a two-day operation involving a bomb squad. The discovery was reported by a 48-year-old father who had gone metal detecting with his son on October 28, near the Czech-Polish border crossing in Bartošovice, located in the Orlické Mountains.
The father described finding an object resembling ammunition in a forested area, prompting an immediate police response. “The man explained that while recreationally metal detecting with his underage son, he had unearthed a suspicious metal object at a depth of about 30 centimeters,” police stated in their press release. A bomb technician was swiftly called in to handle the situation.
During the two-day operation, a bomb disposal expert found a total of 138 105 mm artillery shells, 14 75 mm shells, and 5 cartridge cases. All the munitions were transported to a specialized storage facility in Ralsko, a former military airport. The cache is believed to date back to World War II, according to Czech outlet České noviny.
The police release emphasized the importance of public vigilance and responsible behavior when encountering suspicious finds. “The police thank citizens who act responsibly in such situations, as their vigilance and prompt reporting allow experts to intervene safely, minimize risk and protect lives and property,” the statement read. Authorities urged the public to follow the same protocol if they come across similar objects, especially if they are ammunition or explosives.
“Do not handle the object,” police warned, “do not dig it up, move it or examine it. Keep a safe distance and warn others nearby and wait for police or a bomb technician to arrive.” This advice is crucial, as improper handling of such items can pose serious threats to public safety and property.
The Orlické Mountains, which border the Czech Republic and Poland, have become a hotspot for archaeological and historical discoveries in 2025. Earlier this spring, two hikers in the Czech Republic uncovered a cache of gold items and other treasures weighing fifteen pounds. In Poland, a group of friends searching for WWII rockets also found a significant cache of ancient artifacts, highlighting the region’s rich historical legacy and the potential for future discoveries.
These incidents underscore the importance of community awareness and cooperation with authorities when dealing with historical artifacts and potential threats to public safety. As the Czech Republic continues to explore its past, such findings not only contribute to historical knowledge but also serve as a reminder of the need for responsible and careful handling of the country’s wartime heritage.