Vlkaneč – Churches, Archaeology and Forest Landscape

Vlkaneč combines protected church complexes, traces of a long architectural history, an archaeological site and a distinctive granite formation in the surrounding forests.

Protected Church Complexes

The protected complex of the Church of Saint James the Elder includes the church, the enclosing wall with a gate and wicket, as well as the grounds of the complex. The church is based on an early Gothic structure dating from before or around 1300. Its history continued through several construction phases: it was extended from 1590 to 1592, and a tower was subsequently added from 1706 to 1710. The enclosing wall with its gate and wicket is also an architectural feature in its own right of the Church of Saint James the Elder in Vlkaneč.

Another historical focal point is the Church of All Saints. Its protected complex includes the church, the enclosing wall with a gate and the associated grounds. The building is originally Gothic and dates from the first half of the 14th century. Wall paintings from around the middle of the 14th century have been preserved inside.

Church History in the Surrounding Area

The Church of Saint Wenceslas in Přibyslavice also adds to the cultural picture. It dates from the late 13th century and was originally early Gothic. In 1802, it was rebuilt in the Baroque style. The church thus combines an early Gothic origin from the late 13th century with a Baroque remodelling in 1802. As another historic religious building in Přibyslavice, it complements Vlkaneč’s church complexes with an independent architectural history spanning several centuries. Its construction is probably attributed to the Teutonic Order; this does not establish definite authorship.

The Church of All Saints stands in the centre of Kozohlody. Together with the Churches of Saint James the Elder, Saint Wenceslas and All Saints, it forms a historical spectrum ranging from the late 13th century through the first half of the 14th century to later remodellings and extensions. You can therefore choose different focuses when planning your trip: early Gothic, Baroque alterations, medieval wall paintings or the development of a church building over several centuries.

Archaeology, Granite and Community Tradition

The Vlkaneč archaeological site is dated to the period from the Middle Ages to the modern era, as well as to the late Middle Ages. Tisá skála, a protected granite formation in the surrounding forests, provides a landscape contrast. Both themes broaden the view beyond the churches without leaving the historic character of the place behind.

Towards the end of summer, the municipality of Vlkaneč holds the annual Slavnost dožínek harvest festival for the local population. This tradition is part of the social and seasonal character of the place. If you would like to extend your search to other places, you can also check Hostovlice, Černíny, Zruc Nad Sázavou, Uhlírské Janovice, Malešov, Zleby, Tupadly and Dobrovítov.

For the overarching travel overview: Okres Kutná Hora.