Silver mining, church art and castles give Kutná Hora District its diverse character. In Kutná Hora, history traces the city’s journey from silver to royal city in the 14th century. Elsewhere, castle history, river landscapes and traditional crafts take center stage. You can tailor your discoveries to specific interests, from medieval mining history and architecture to nature and regional wine.
Silver City and Church Art
St. Barbara’s Church is a Gothic landmark in Kutná Hora. Its frescoes depict scenes from the secular life of the medieval mining town. The architecture and imagery thus offer two perspectives on the same history: sacred architecture and urban life shaped by silver mining.
In Sedlec, the former Cistercian cathedral offers a different perspective. Jan Blažej Santini had it restored in the Baroque style in the early 18th century. The Sedlec Ossuary comprises two chapels; Sedlec is also home to the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint John the Baptist. Ticket arrangements may change, so check the latest information before your visit.
From Mining to Coinage
The Silver Trail in Hrádek explores topics ranging from medieval mining and silver processing to coin minting. Its stops also include a horse-powered trejv (hoist) and an authentic medieval mine. This offers a way to understand silver history not only as the rise of a city, but also through the work and processes associated with the metal.
The medieval mine in Kutná Hora is accessible to visitors via a 33-meter staircase. Traditional miners’ clothing, helmets and lamps are used during the visit. Visit arrangements may change seasonally; check the current conditions before you go.
Castle Park, Trails and River Landscapes
Žleby Castle Park covers approximately 24 hectares. Its design incorporates the steep castle slope and a gorge-like meander of the Doubrava. The park is home to more than 50 species of small birds and songbirds; it also includes a reserve where white deer and fallow deer are kept. The landscape and wildlife offer a marked contrast to the churches and mining sites.
A red-marked hiking trail leads from Žleby via Ronov nad Doubravou, Žlebské Chvalovice, Krkanka and Rudov to the ruins of Lichnice Castle. Markings and access may change. A train station is about a 15-minute walk from Žleby Castle. A bus stop is on the square directly below the castle, and two parking lots are near the castle complex. Check transport and parking information before your trip.
Castle Stories and Sázava Themes
The Museum of Czech Rural Life is housed in the Empire-style Kačina Castle. Its rooms and collections include a Chotek library, salons, a historic pharmacy and a historic theater. Guided tours focus on the history of the Chotek family, the everyday lives of the servants and the transformation of aristocratic estates in the 19th century. The Kačina Nature Monument offers a distinct natural attraction: it features preserved hardwood floodplain forests, wetlands and wet meadows, and is also known for rare insects.
In Zruč nad Sázavou, the “Story of the Sázava River” exhibition presents vanished water-related crafts as well as plants and animals of the Sázava. Check current opening hours separately. The Milota of Kolowrat Trail at Zruč Castle offers a different kind of activity, with axe throwing, archery, climbing, balance obstacles, fishing and skittles. It operates depending on the weather and season.
Wine and Local Cuisine
An enogastronomic tasting at the Kutná Hora winery pairs five local wines with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Menu details may change. Wine tastings at the St. Ursula Monastery include tours of the historic monastery cellars; opening and booking details may vary. Wine culture and cuisine thus complement historical discoveries with a distinct culinary focus.
Discover more destinations: Černíny-Krasoňovice, Mocovice, Uhlírské Janovice, Zruc Nad Sázavou, Rataje Nad Sázavou-Malovidy, Rataje Nad Sázavou, Zhor, Zleby, Stipoklasy, Vlastejovice, Zbraslavice, Caslav, Čestín, Kuttenberg, Kácov, Žehušice, Miskovice, Chotusice, Církvice, Červené Janovice, Hlízov, Hostovlice, Rašovice, Kluky, Onomyšl, Křesetice, Nepoměřice, Paběnice, Starkoč, Suchdol, Tupadly, Třebonín, Úmonín, Vlkaneč, Vrdy, Záboří Nad Labem, Zbizuby, Černíny, Chlístovice, Horka I, Zbýšov, Čejkovice, Chabeřice, Dobrovítov, Vidice, Drobovice, Horky, Třebětín, Hraběšín, Slavošov, Staňkovice, Vavřinec, Podveky, Řendějov, Košice U Nepoměřic, Ledečko, Svatý Mikuláš, Malešov, Dolní Pohleď, Samopše, Okřesaneč, Opatovice I, Soběšín, Potěhy, Rohozec, Semtěš, Schořov, Souňov, Sudějov, Šebestěnice, Žáky, Třebešice, Vinaře, Vlačice, Vodranty, Petrovice Ii, Adamov U Tupadel, Bohdaneč, Nové Dvory U Kutné Hory, Krchleby.
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