Modrá brings together a glimpse into the Great Moravian period with exhibitions on water and nature. The Archeoskanzen focuses on a fortified settlement, while Živá voda explores life in and around the water. There are also trails through Modrá and the valley of the Modranský potok, as well as the small Židoviny observation tower above the northern edge of the village. To help choose what to do, consider this: would you most like to discover an early medieval settlement, observe aquatic life, or explore the landscape on foot or by bike?

Great Moravian History in Modrá

The Archeoskanzen Modrá depicts a fortified settlement from the Great Moravian period. It is based on actual archaeological finds, some of which were discovered right at the open-air museum site. The combination of a reconstructed settlement and the place where finds were unearthed gives your visit a tangible archaeological connection. At the open-air museum, you can also try out traditional crafts. From the palace of the Archeoskanzen, you can reach the Klenotnice Velké Moravy exhibition space, where you can extend your visit with an exhibition.

The early medieval Church of St John in Modrá complements this historical focus. It is now a national cultural monument of the Czech Republic.

Aquatic Worlds and a Natural Swimming Biotope

At Živá voda, the focus shifts from settlements and history to bodies of water. The botanical and limnological exhibition explores life in and around the water, as well as aquatic animals and plants from the Morava River, nearby streams and ponds. Through a glass tunnel, you can observe carp, pike and beluga sturgeon in a pond. If seeing the tunnel is important to your plans, check access in advance.

The complex also includes an artificially created natural swimming biotope. Special plants filter its water naturally. Swimming availability may vary depending on the season and conditions. If you plan to swim in the biotope, check whether this is possible before your visit.

Nature Trails, Valley and Viewpoint

The Chřiby Fauna and Flora Nature Trail is five kilometres long, runs through Modrá and is suitable for walkers and cyclists. Its route leads from the Konvent pond near the pilgrimage Basilica of Velehrad, through Modrá and the valley of the Modranský potok, and into the Chřiby Massif. The valley of the Modranský potok is also home to a chain of six ponds with numerous rare and protected animals, especially amphibians.

The Stezka praturů offers a different focus. From the Živá voda site, you can reach the trail via a footbridge that runs up to four metres above the ground. At twelve themed stops, you can observe aurochs and learn about their history and their return to Moravian pastures after 2,000 years. The Chřiby Fauna and Flora Nature Trail, by contrast, has a stated route length and leads through the valley and massif; the Stezka praturů combines animal watching with themed stops.

The small wooden Židoviny observation tower stands above the northern edge of Modrá and adds another named location to the area’s nature and landscape attractions.

Events and Local Tastes

Events are held throughout the year at the Archeoskanzen and in the municipality of Modrá, and many have become traditions over the years. If you would like to plan your visit around an event, check the specific dates in advance.

At the Centrum historie a tradic Modrá, you can sample regional fruit brandies and wine. You can also learn about the fruit distilling process and the history of wine-growing. This adds insights into regional traditions to the archaeological and landscape themes.

Visiting the Archeoskanzen with a Dog

If you visit the Archeoskanzen with a dog, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a lead.

Discover more destinations: Lopenik, Rudice, Babice U Uherského Hradiště, Tučapy, Kostelany Nad Moravou, Záhorovice, Topolná, Uherské Hradiště.

Return to the regional travel guide: Uherské Hradiště District.