Ruda brings together dated local history and practical walking and cycling options. During your stay, you can choose from historical points of interest, different route directions and seasonal events.

Church of St. Giles and its history

The Church of St. Giles is considered the most significant historical monument in Ruda. The foundation stone for the present-day church was laid on 25 May 1792; it was consecrated on 4 September 1795. Four bells hang in the tower, including one from 1516 and one from 1709. Both of these bell dates predate the laying of the foundation stone for the present-day church, while 1792 and 1795 mark its construction and consecration. This makes it easy to distinguish the dates of the bells from those of the present-day church.

A memorial to those who fell in the First World War stands directly next to the church. The church and the memorial thus offer different points of interest for a walk focused on Ruda’s history and remembrance.

Local history in coats of arms and monuments

The first recorded mention of Ruda dates from 1353; at that time, the settlement was called Hruda. Historic iron-ore mining is represented by miners’ hammers in the municipality’s coat of arms and flag. The recorded name and the hammers thus stand for two different aspects of local history: the settlement’s early mention and its mining industry.

Another point of interest lies next to Holíkův Pond, which now serves as a fire-fighting water reservoir. There stands a reconciliation cross stone dating from 1812 and measuring 71 × 36 × 20 cm. Its date and precise dimensions distinguish it from the historical points of interest at the church; the pond adds a present-day function to the location.

Walking and cycling: distinguishing the routes

A blue-marked hiking trail runs through the cadastral area of Ruda. The two directions mentioned can be distinguished by their intermediate places and destinations: one route leads to Budišov via Jabloňov and Tasov, while the other leads to Velká Bíteš via Ořechov and Osová Bítýška. Check the current trail markings before setting out.

Cycle route 5240 also runs through Ruda, connecting Bohdalec, Křižanov and Tasov. Free cycling maps are available at the local U Malců pub; if you are planning with a map, check its availability in advance.

Cycling tour starting and finishing in Ruda

Another way to experience Ruda by bike is the recurring “Zlaté kolo Vysočiny” tour. It is open to unregistered cyclists of all ages and starts and finishes in Ruda near Velké Meziříčí. The 2024 edition was the 21st. For your choice, it is useful to note the difference from cycle route 5240: the route runs through Ruda and connects three specified places, while the cycling tour starts and finishes in Ruda. Check the date of the relevant edition before your trip.

Pilgrimage and nativity scenes throughout the year

The St. Giles pilgrimage takes place in Ruda every year. If you would like to plan your visit around it, check the date of the relevant edition in advance. A traditional Christmas nativity scene has been displayed in the same place in front of the church for decades. During a walk through Ruda in December 2024, visitors could also see illuminated nativity scenes in the Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk and in the window of the cultural centre’s library. As the nativity scenes are displayed seasonally, check whether they will be available before travelling during the Christmas season.

Discover more destinations: Zadní Zhořec, Kundratice, Petráveč, Strachujov, Nové Dvory, Hodíškov, Malá Losenice, Dvořiště.

For the overview of the wider region: Žďár nad Sázavou District.