In Špačince, a long history of churches meets a protected landscape. The village lies in the northern part of the Trnava Hills; the Krupanský potok also flows through Špačince. Those interested in the village’s history will find notable dates spanning from the Neolithic period to surviving parts of a medieval church. The Calvary and the annual long-distance hike also give a visit its own cultural and active focus.
Landscape and bird protection
The Špačinsko–nižnianske polia Special Protection Area covers part of the cadastral area of Špačince. It was designated, among other reasons, to safeguard the conditions for the survival and breeding of the saker falcon. Together with its location in the Trnava Hills and the Krupanský potok flowing through the village, the protected area shapes Špačince’s geographical character.
A church with several building phases
The Roman Catholic church in Špačince is dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. It was originally Gothic and was built in 1312. Part of the original presbytery survives as the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. The building’s history can also be traced through changes made in the 20th century: when the old church was demolished in spring 1939, the tower, sanctuary and Chapel of Saint Anne were retained at the request of the heritage authority. These surviving elements and the chapel of the original presbytery tell different parts of the church’s construction history.
Calvary and historical traces
The Calvary beside the cemetery dates from 1797 and has a Baroque cross. Fourteen stations were erected there in 1873, and paintings were added to the stations in 1930. The sequence of these dates shows that the site was developed over a longer period. There is also a protected monument on the road to Trnava: the statue of Christ the King dates from 1678 and is protected by the heritage authority.
Špačince also has archaeological connections to very different periods. Finds from the Neolithic period, associated with around 7000 BC, were discovered in the Peňažité tract. A silver coin found in Špačince is recorded from the Roman period. Together with the dates associated with the church and the Calvary, this creates a broad time frame: the village’s history stretches from early traces of human life to specific buildings and monuments.
Long-distance hike and trip planning
Since 1985, the local tourist club has organised the long-distance hike Pochod ŠPCH – Špačinskí pekní chlapci. The hike has been held every year since its first edition. Cyclists have also taken part since 1992: they may ride a separate route, but must pass all the checkpoints, just like the walkers. Their route choice therefore differs, while the checkpoints remain compulsory for both groups. If you are planning your trip around the hike, check the date of that year’s event in advance.
Road connections are also relevant when planning: Špačince is connected to the main road network by road II/560 Trnava–Dolné Dubové–Dechtice. When looking for a hotel in Špačince, you can first consider what you would like to focus on during your stay: church and monument history, the protected landscape or the long-distance hike. These different themes can help you choose a destination that suits your interests.
For the broader travel overview: Špačince.
