Opolany – Discover History and Landscape

Opolany offers several points of interest for a trip that takes in local history and landscape: at Oškobrh, natural and archaeological themes go hand in hand, while the Sánský Canal and the Opolany–Velký Osek educational cycling trail offer further perspectives on the surrounding area. The Evangelical church and cemetery also tell the story of the town.

Landscape, Nature and Water Engineering

The Oškobrh Nature Monument covers the cadastral area of Opolany. It protects the population of the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus) and its habitat, xerothermic steppe grasslands, exposed marl deposits, and the species associated with these sites. The focus on nature is therefore specific: the protected beetle population, distinctive habitats and the species that depend on them are all included in the protected features.

Another landscape feature is the Sánský Canal, which has been preserved to this day. It flows through Opolánky and passes through Opolany, Odřepsy, Pátek and Křečkov. The canal was built around 1450 by Jiří z Kunštátu to divert water from the Cidlina to the Poděbrady ponds. Its history is linked to a clearly defined purpose: it was intended to carry water between the river and the ponds. For trip planning, the canal offers a historical connection to the landscape, while the nature monument draws attention to habitats and species.

Prehistory and Evangelical Local History

A hilltop settlement and a hillfort dating from several prehistoric periods have been documented in the summit area of Oškobrh. Oškobrh is therefore also of interest to visitors interested in early settlement history. The archaeological site also includes the location of the former Church of St Peter and Paul. This former church forms part of the local history of the site, alongside traces of prehistoric settlement.

The Evangelical history of Opolany reflects a different period. The Evangelical Reformed congregation was established in 1885. The Evangelical church was built in 1892–1893 and solemnly dedicated on 8 September 1893 by Superintendent J. E. Szalatnay. The Evangelical cemetery was established in 1899. Its headstones are uniform in design, modelled on the cemetery of the Moravian Church in Herrnhut (Ochranov) in Upper Lusatia. Because of the uniform design of its graves, the cemetery was declared a state cultural monument in 1989. The dates provide a clear chronological context for these aspects of local history—from the establishment of the congregation to the cemetery’s later designation as a protected monument.

By Bike, on Foot and on a Hike

The Opolany–Velký Osek educational cycling trail provides a safe and convenient connection for pedestrians and cyclists, including tourists, in the area around the municipalities of Opolánky, Opolany, Kánín, Sány and Velký Osek. Information boards and navigation posts help visitors find their way along the trail. The educational cycling trail connects two main cycling routes via the newly built motorway embankment and uses existing paths. Check current trail conditions and signage before setting out.

A hike to Oškobrh can start in Opolany. Check current trail conditions and access before setting out. The activities differ in their focus: the educational cycling trail is designed as a route for pedestrians and cyclists, while a hike starting in Opolany is an option for visiting Oškobrh.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Loučeň, Lysa Nad Labem, Senice, Bobnice, Odřepsy, Křinec, Dlouhopolsko, Kounice.

For the main travel overview: Okres Nymburk.