Horní Smržov combines a museum dedicated to the history of rural everyday life with a settlement layout resembling a Gothic round village. There is also a wooded valley and predominantly hilly countryside. If you are looking for accommodation, you can therefore choose the area based on two different interests: the village’s cultural and historical traces, or hiking opportunities in the surrounding area. The details below show what defines the character of the place—from the layout of its farmsteads to its location by the Zavadilka stream.
Village History and Museum
Horní Smržov was first mentioned in 1294. The original name meant “Smržův dvůr” (“Smrž’s farmyard”). These early references provide a historical and linguistic point of departure; the architectural traces tell another part of the village’s story. The museum was established in 2005/2006 by converting a former agricultural building. Its exhibition documents rural life in the first half of the 20th century. Its focus is therefore on a clearly defined period and everyday life in the countryside. In the northern part of the municipality, the folk-architecture buildings of the museum form a distinct area.
Farmsteads, Village Green and School
The farmsteads are arranged around the village green; the settlement structure resembles the type known as a Gothic round village. The arrangement of the historic houses also retains the influence of the “Franconian farmstead.” The comparison with a round village refers to the grouping of farmsteads, while the Franconian influence relates to the historic arrangement of the houses. One named building adds a more specific point of interest: building No. 19 has two storeys and was originally built as a village school in 1900. Its façade detailing has been preserved. The spatial layout of the village and a specific building with a former school use can thus be considered side by side.
Valley, Forests and Hiking
Horní Smržov lies in a forest-surrounded valley on the border between the Blansko and Svitavy districts. The village is also located in the flat valley of the Zavadilka stream. The surrounding landscape is predominantly hilly and has extensive woodland. The setting can therefore be viewed on two scales: the flat valley beside the stream and the hilly, wooded countryside around it. For visitors who value outdoor activities, Horní Smržov offers excellent opportunities for hiking. Those wishing to focus on local history and nature can weigh the museum exhibits and hiking opportunities as different priorities for their stay.
Getting There and Accommodation
Road access is via a Class III road connecting to the R 43 expressway between Brno and Svitavy. As the road network may change due to future infrastructure works, check your specific route before setting out. Overnight accommodation in the museum building consists of one double room and two rooms with four beds each. Room configurations may change, so confirm them before booking. You can also decide whether village history, hiking or both will be the main focus of your stay.
Discover more destinations: Okrouhlá, Černá Hora, Pametice, Kozárov, Boskovice, Jedovnice, Míchov, Stvolova
See the broader travel overview: Blansko District.
