There are two notable starting points for a stay in Hrubý Jeseník: Romanka, an observation tower in the Elbe lowlands, and the history of the municipality, reflected in an early written mention and sacred architecture. This lets you explore the views and local history as distinct aspects of your trip.
Romanka: views and dual purpose
The Romanka observation tower stands in the Elbe lowlands in the municipality of Hrubý Jeseník. What makes it unusual is its dual purpose: it combines the function of a telecommunications tower with that of a public observation tower. Romanka opened on 28 March 2003. The tower can therefore be seen both as a technical structure and as a viewpoint intended for public use.
The observation platform is about 26 metres above the ground and can be reached by climbing 116 steps. The two figures describe different aspects: 26 metres indicates the platform’s height, while 116 steps describes the way up. When planning your visit, you can consider not only the tower’s purpose but also the practical details of the climb. The number of steps may help you decide how to fit the tower into your day.
Ways to reach the tower
From Hrubý Jeseník, Romanka is accessible on foot via short field paths. By car, you can get almost all the way to the tower; parking is available. You can therefore plan either a walk from the village or a drive. Check the opening conditions before your trip, as details about access and seasonal operation may change.
Local history across several periods
Hrubý Jeseník is one of the oldest municipalities in the Nymburk area and was first mentioned in writing in 1088. The settlement originally consisted of Jeseník and Jeseníček; later, Jeseníček became part of Oskořínek. The local history therefore includes both an early written reference and a change to the original settlements. The first mention and the later development of Jeseníček represent different aspects of the municipality’s history.
Church and cultural monument
The church in Hrubý Jeseník, dedicated to Saint Wenceslas, dates back to the mid-14th century. Its present form dates from 1769. The two dates therefore refer to different periods: the church’s longer history and its present form. This makes it possible to distinguish the church’s historical origins from its later architectural development.
Another point of cultural and historical interest is the ensemble of sculptures and a chapel along the Stations of the Cross in Hrubý Jeseník. It is listed as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. Unlike the church, the focus here is an ensemble of several elements rather than a single sacred building. For visitors interested in cultural history, these different kinds of local heritage complement one another.
The dates can also be distinguished by what they refer to: 1088 marks the municipality’s first written mention, the mid-14th century the history of the church, and 1769 its present form. They do not form a single construction chronology, but trace the story from the municipality’s history to the development of a particular building.
Discover more destinations: Kněžice, Jizbice, Chleby, Opolany, Oskořínek, Činěves, Křinec, Žitovlice
For the broader travel overview: Nymburk District.
