Horní Benešov combines a long mining history with buildings from different periods. It is also home to the Lichnovské šance, whose history has been interpreted in different ways, and offers practical information about trails, a cycling route and a bus connection.
Mining History from the Middle Ages to 1992
Horní Benešov was founded as a mining town in 1253. The city’s silver mines were among the oldest in the country. Mining continued in Horní Benešov, with interruptions, until 1992. Together, these details span a long historical period: from the town’s foundation in the 13th century to mining in the more recent past, though it did not take place continuously.
Buildings and Art from Different Periods
Cultural monuments include the Church of St. Catherine and the wall surrounding it. The church is a Baroque building on medieval foundations. The building and its older foundations thus bring together different periods.
The cemetery chapel of the Virgin Mary was built in 1893 and has a unified Neo-Gothic interior. Its construction date and furnishings give it a distinct character alongside the Baroque church. Another historic landmark is the sandstone statue of St. John of Nepomuk: this Baroque sculpture dates from the second half of the 18th century. In Horní Benešov, religious architecture, furnishings and sculpture thus offer different perspectives on the town’s history.
The Lichnovské šance and the Trail from Luhy
The historical classification of the Lichnovské šance remains uncertain: they are considered either a fortification from the Thirty Years’ War or artillery earthworks from the Seven Years’ War. Depending on the interpretation, the site is therefore associated with two different wartime periods.
A forest trail leads to the Lichnovské šance, heading north from Luhy, a district of Horní Benešov. Check local trail conditions before setting out. Regional cycling route No. 6160 passes through the cadastral area of Horní Benešov; check the current signage before your ride.
Plan Your Bus Journey and Activities
Bus route 811 runs between Krnov and Horní Benešov. Check the current timetable before departure, as schedules and services may change.
A specific hobby horsing session is listed at the sports ground in Luhy: the 2026 municipal newsletter lists training every Monday from 16:00. Please check the schedule before your visit.
HHC/HB MAAT (Hobby Horse Club Horní Benešov) is an official regional member club of the Česká Hobby Horsing Asociace. Clubs like this hold regular training sessions that interested people can attend. Specific participation details may change.
Horní Benešov in the Regional Context
Horní Benešov is one of the municipalities in the Slezská Harta microregion. The Slezská Harta area offers sightseeing trips; check access and operating days before planning your visit.
Discover more destinations: Andělská Hora Ve Slezsku, Mezina, Dolni Moravice, Brantice, Nové Heřminovy, Úvalno, Lomnice, Holčovice.
For the broader travel overview: Okres Bruntál.
