The Jordan Reservoir, which feeds the waterfall, was constructed in 1492 by damming the Tismenice stream to supply water to the growing town of Tábor.
The reservoir is technically a man-made lake and was originally used to store fish and facilitate gold washing.
The waterfall is not a natural geological formation but an engineered spillway designed to regulate the water level of the 50-hectare reservoir.
In 2012, a significant revitalization project was completed to clear silt from the reservoir, which directly affects the flow intensity of the waterfall.
The waterfall structure is built directly against the remains of the medieval stone curtain walls that once protected Tábor.
Jordan Waterfall is an artificial cascade created by the overflow of the Jordan Reservoir, the oldest water reservoir in Central Europe, established in 1492. Located in the town of Tábor, the waterfall drops 18 meters over the historic town walls into the Tismenice stream. The site serves as the primary drainage mechanism for the reservoir, which was originally built for gold mining and later repurposed for urban water supply. The surrounding park area features walking paths that allow visitors to view the cascade from both the top and bottom perspectives. The waterfall is integrated into the structural integrity of the town's medieval fortifications.
The bridge crossing the dam provides a high-angle view, while the path below the falls offers a dramatic perspective of the full 18-meter drop.
Visit immediately after heavy rainfall for the most impressive water flow.
Follow the trail leading down to the stream level to see the waterfall from the base of the canyon.
Wear sturdy walking shoes if planning to hike the Tismenice valley trail.
Do not attempt to climb the mossy or wet stones near the water base as they are extremely slippery.
