Discover Krnov: Churches, Synagogue and Architecture

Krnov offers culturally minded travelers several distinct points of interest: sacred architecture, the history of the synagogue, a villa designed by Viennese architect Otto Prutscher, and observation towers. The buildings date from different periods and reveal more than one facet of the town. When looking for a hotel in Krnov, you can first consider whether churches, Jewish architectural history, exhibitions or views over the surrounding area are especially important to your stay. The following places offer some concrete ideas.

Pilgrimage Church and Cvilín Hill

On Vorderní Cvilín Hill above Krnov, at an elevation of 437 m, stands the Baroque, twin-towered red-and-white pilgrimage church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and Our Lady of Sorrows (Povýšení svatého Kříže a Panny Marie Sedmibolestné). The Church of Our Lady of Sorrows on the hill is designated a national cultural monument; it also has a Way of the Cross. Each year, the pilgrimage church welcomes numerous visitors for regular religious pilgrimages. If you are traveling to Krnov for one, check the dates in advance.

The Lichtenštejnská rozhledna observation tower is also on Vorderní Cvilín Hill and offers wide-ranging views over the surrounding area. Opening arrangements may vary by season, so check the latest information before visiting.

Synagogue: Architecture and Present-Day Use

The Krnov Synagogue (Krnovská synagoga) was built in 1871–1872 in the Neo-Romanesque style. Its Moorish interior is inspired by Sephardic Jewish architecture and provides a different architectural accent from the Baroque pilgrimage church. Today, the synagogue serves as a museum, exhibition venue, and cultural and religious space.

Since 2020, it has been part of the “European Trails of Jewish Cultural Heritage” project and, since 2021, also of the Moravian-Silesian Region’s “Technotrasa.cz” project. For your visit, check the latest opening information; project arrangements may also change.

Church Architecture and Flemmich Villa

The Church of St. Benedict in Krnov-Kostelec was built in the early 13th century. Its original presbytery, the church’s chancel, has been preserved as a sacristy. The early date and this surviving part of the building offer a distinct perspective on Krnov’s architectural history, focusing on its origins and original church architecture.

Flemmich Villa was built between 1914 and 1917 as the family residence of textile manufacturer Theodor Flemmich; it was designed by Viennese architect Otto Prutscher. Its original purpose therefore differs from that of religious buildings. Today, its exhibition rooms are open to visitors daily except Mondays, and guided tours are available on request. As arrangements may change for operational reasons, confirm the opening hours before your visit and request a guided tour if needed.

Viewpoints and Planning

The Vyhlídka observation tower is located in Ježník. Together with the Lichtenštejnská rozhledna on Cvilín, this gives you two observation towers at different locations to consider when planning your trip. The Lichtenštejnská rozhledna is notable for its wide-ranging views over the surrounding area; its opening arrangements may vary by season.

Visiting arrangements also differ: religious pilgrimages take place regularly every year, and you should check their dates in advance. Flemmich Villa is open daily except Mondays, while guided tours are available on request. You can plan your stay around whether a pilgrimage, an exhibition visit or a viewpoint is your priority.

Discover more destinations: Mezina, Horní Město, Sucha Rudna, Tvrdkov, Hošťálkovy, Svetla Hora, Jiříkov, Karlovice

Go to the broader travel overview: Bruntál District.