Křelovice is defined by its fully elliptical village layout, coniferous forests and historic buildings. Walks, two distinct routes and traces of village history offer various ways to enjoy a stay.
Forest, River and Routes
Křelovice lies less than one kilometre from the left bank of the Trnávka River. The village is mostly surrounded by coniferous forests, 131 hectares of which are directly owned by the municipality. Křelovice is considered a suitable starting point for walks in the forests, where blueberries and mushrooms can be gathered. Foraging opportunities depend on the season.
Reservoirs considered suitable for swimming are about two kilometres from Křelovice. If you are planning a swimming trip, check the current facilities and water conditions beforehand.
Two named routes also pass through Křelovice. Cycle Route 161 runs between Želiv and Senožaty through the village, then continues via Onšov and Košetice. A blue-marked historic trail leads from Červená Řečice to Pelhřimov, passing through Křelovice and continuing to Košetice. The route numbers and named places distinguish the two connections; before cycling, check the route number and conditions, and before hiking, check the current trail markings.
An Elliptical Village Layout
The fully elliptical layout of Křelovice is called Okrouhlice and is considered the oldest type of Slavic village. This distinctive shape offers a unique perspective on the village’s history, alongside its individual buildings and stone memorials.
In 1379, Křelovice is recorded as having 40 residents and an area of 24 lánů. Among the villages belonging to the Červená Řečice estate, the municipality had the second-largest area. These recorded figures offer a snapshot of the village’s size at the time and its standing within the estate.
Buildings and Stone Memorials
The Stará pošta building complex, house number 26, was extended in 1856 with a long wing containing vaulted stables. Sýpka, house number 1, is a plastered, two-storey granary with a rectangular footprint and a gabled roof. It is part of an agricultural farm complex.
By the central pond is a damaged granite stone said to commemorate a tavern dispute that ended in a death. On the northeastern edge of the village, on the road to Senožaty, stands a stone memorial with a raised relief of a paw cross.
The Dva smírčí kříže site comprises two sandstone reconciliation crosses, probably of medieval origin. Only one survives; its engraving depicts either a crossbow or a sword. A statue of the Virgin Mary dating from 1901 also stands in front of the chapel. Together with the unusual village layout, these details are a focal point for anyone interested in the history and architectural forms of Křelovice.
Discover more travel destinations: Leškovice, Salačova Lhota, Důl, Dobra Voda U Pacova, Kosetice, Bohdalín, Nová Buková, Dobrá Voda.
For the broader travel overview: Pelhřimov District.
