The church dating from 1612, the castle of Gothic origins and the archaeological hill of Rmíz offer different ways to explore the history of Laškov. If you are looking for a holiday apartment for your stay, you can choose how to explore the area based on whether you are particularly interested in architectural history, religious heritage or archaeology.
Church and Castle in Historical Perspective
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Laškov was built in 1612 and is protected as a cultural monument. Laškov Castle developed from a Gothic fortress, whose ground plan has been partly preserved in the centre. A dated religious building and the traces of an older fortification thus represent two different chapters in the history of the area.
Another clearly dated episode links the castle with Emperor Franz Joseph I: on the occasion of imperial manoeuvres in the Konice area, he chose it as his temporary residence in 1887. The castle’s history therefore extends beyond its Gothic origins to include a specific event from the late 19th century.
Krakovec: Chapel, Devotions and Stone Cross
The present-day Baroque Chapel of St Anthony of Padua was built on Světina Hill in Krakovec between 1682 and 1686. Its construction period and hilltop location give it a distinctive historical place in the story of Laškov.
A report by the Archdiocese dated 16 June 2023 noted that Fatima devotions had already been held at the chapel for more than 15 years. The format described at the time included a candlelit procession with the statue of Our Lady of Fatima and the recitation of the Rosary. The date is important: the report describes the devotions and their format in 2023.
Outside Krakovec, on the road to Laškov, a stone cross dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius stands by the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. Together with the chapel, it offers another point of interest for travellers interested in religious history and local traditions of monument preservation.
Archaeology and Historical Connections
Rmíz Hill above Laškov is a prehistoric hillfort site and also an important archaeological site. Those choosing a destination who wish to consider archaeological history as well as buildings will find a distinct focus here. Rmíz thus offers a different perspective in time from the church and castle: the area’s prehistory takes centre stage.
A long-distance historical connection is also thought to have passed through the area. One branch of the so-called “Polish Route” is believed to have run from Prague via Litomyšl, Jevíčko, Konice, Krakovec and Náměšť na Hané to Olomouc, then north through the Moravian Gate towards Poland, from the second half of the 10th century until the beginning of the 13th century.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
A description of the excursion through the Rakovské Valley, last updated in 2012, mentions a surfaced path suitable for walking and cycling. As path conditions can change, check them before setting out.
Visitors to the Koupací biotop Laškov can use a designated car park on the grounds of the agricultural cooperative. Check local parking regulations before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Ludmírov, Lešany, Hacky, Skalka U Prostějova, Stražisko, Drahany, Ochoz, Horní Štěpánov
For the broader travel overview: Prostějov District.
