Treasures of the Moravian Gate

There are a number of archaeological sites in the Moravian Gate, but the most significant is undoubtedly Předmostí near Přerov. If you are interested in ancient history, do not miss the exhibition of archaeology in the Comenius Museum at Přerov Chateau and the Mammoth Hunters’ Memorial. You can also see several archaeological finds at Dřevohostice Chateau.

Přerov Chateau

The Renaissance chateau, dominating the Přerov Urban Conservation Area, is the seat of the Comenius Museum, the oldest of its kind in the world. The museum preserves rare exhibits in its collections of mineralogy, entomology, and archaeology, as well as documents relating to the life and work of John Amos Comenius, complemented by period reconstructions of classrooms. There is also an exhibition of Haná ethnography and a display of bells made by the world-renowned workshop of the Dytrych family from the nearby village of Brodek u Přerova.

Dřevohostice Chateau

This beautiful chateau at the foothills of the picturesque Hostýn Hills is among the most important monuments of the Moravian Renaissance. Its first mention dates back to 1368 when a military fortress owned by the Lords of Tovačov and Cimburk stood at the site. The chateau is now owned by the town and visitors can tour its typical chateau exhibits, collectibles, and also various other items of interest.

Tips in the environs

• Tom the Mammoth – life-size statue of a baby mammoth overlooking Přerov from the Čekyně Hill.
• Mammoth Hunters’ Memorial – the memorial in Předmostí near Přerov marks one of the most important Central European Early Palaeolithic sites.

Accommodation tips

• Hotel Jana, Přerov
• Resort Radslavice

Restaurant tips

• Restaurace U Labutě
• Restaurace U Bukáčků

The main “guard” dominating the Moravian Gate is majestic Helfštýn Castle, one of the largest castles in Europe. But in the past, there were several other sentry posts in the area. Unfortunately, only their remains have survived to this day, which will still delight lovers of mysterious ruins.

Helfštýn Castle

Founded probably in the last quarter of the 13th century, the main redevelopment into a Gothic fortress took place at the turn of the 14–15th centuries. It is dominated by its Hussite Tower with an observation deck, and the Medieval Palace. During the recent redevelopment, the palace was equipped with a unique, modern roof and newly-built footbridges so the upper storeys of the palace have been opened up, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape of the Moravian Gate.

Each year, the castle organises the international meeting of artistic blacksmiths, Hefaiston, during which you can watch master blacksmiths in action. Artworks created by them permanently adorn not only the castle itself, but also the nearby town of Lipník nad Bečvou.

Tips in the environs

• Ruins of Drahotuš Castle – located on the other side of the valley, almost opposite Helfštýn. The castle fulfilled its defensive purpose until the late 15th century, but then it was abandoned. Now the site only includes fragments of the palace, tower gate, and fortifications.
• Hranice Abyss – don’t miss visiting the deepest flooded abyss in the world! Thanks to virtual reality, you can also peek under water – just visit the Hranice Abyss Information Centre.
• Ruins of Svrčov Castle – remains of a castle near the Hranice Abyss, probably built in the 14th century. A nature trail from the abyss will lead you to the castle.

Accommodation tips

• Zámecký hotel Zlatý Orel, Hranice
• Hrad Kunzov Boutique Hotel
• Penzion Stará Střelnice, Hranice

Restaurant tips

• Restaurace Stará Střelnice, Hranice
• La Locanda, Hranice