Hamry U Hlinska can be explored through several distinct themes: the Masopust tradition, the landscape along the Chrudimka, and local architectural and economic history. The Masopust procession is particularly closely linked to the municipality; the nature trail and preserved architectural heritage offer different perspectives.

Masopust: a tradition in its place of origin

The Masopust procession of Hamry has been passed down for generations and retains its Old Bohemian character. Since 2010, the procession has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It can only be experienced in its original area: in the municipality where it takes place. Anyone planning a trip around the procession should check the specific date before making plans.

A special feature is Prohánění kobyly, a unique element of Masopust processions in the Hlinecko region, passed down only in Hamry. On the afternoon before the day of the masked procession, young men in horse costumes and other masks visit every house in the municipality. In this way, they announce the events of the following day. The eve is therefore also part of the described form of the custom.

The Chrudimka and the nature trail

Hamry lies in a landscape surrounding the Chrudimka River. In the cadastral area of Hamry u Hlinska, above the Hamerská Reservoir, the Chrudimka is a partly shaded stream five metres wide. These details describe both the broader landscape and a precisely located section above the reservoir.

The Vlastivědná stezka Krajem Chrudimky nature trail passes through Hamry. From Čachnov, the village is located at kilometre 14.5 along the route; there are 37 information boards in total along the trail. The entire route is marked in green. The kilometre figure indicates Hamry’s position along the route from Čachnov, while the boards are distributed along the trail and the marking applies to the entire route. As route details may be updated, it is a good idea to check the current route before setting out on a hike.

The chapel, folk buildings and local history

The Chapel of St John of Nepomuk, also known as Svatojánské lázně, is an immovable cultural monument in Hamry. Several folk buildings typical of the local foothill landscape have also been preserved. These include timber cottage No. 25, with its decorated lattice gable. Together, these examples illustrate different aspects of the architectural heritage: a protected chapel and preserved folk buildings with distinctive forms.

The area’s earlier industries can also be placed in historical context. Iron ore was processed in Hamry and in Hamřík, farther to the north, during the 15th and 16th centuries. Work at the ironworks in Hamry continued until the 18th century. Three watermills that were operating in Hamry at the beginning of the 19th century add another dimension to its economic history. Iron processing and the later milling operations thus stand side by side as distinct chapters in the village’s history.

Discover more destinations: Vcelakov, Lipovec, Rostejn, Ústupky, Lany, Prosec, Smrček, Svídnice.

See the regional travel overview: Okres Chrudim.