Laškov: Church, Castle and Cultural History

A trip to Laškov can be planned around different interests: local history and archaeology offer a different focus from an excursion on foot or by bike. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip, this overview can help you decide which topics appeal to you. Cultural history is reflected in the church and castle; other historical connections are associated with Krakovec.

The Church and Castle History of Laškov

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Laškov was built in 1612 and is protected as a cultural monument. Laškov Castle developed from a Gothic fortress, parts of whose ground plan have been preserved in the centre. The two buildings represent different historical strands: the church is associated with a specific year of construction, while the former fortress ground plan helps explain the castle’s origins. Another episode dates to 1887: during the imperial manoeuvres in the Konice area, Emperor Franz Joseph I chose the castle as his temporary residence.

Krakovec: Chapel and Religious Traditions

The present-day Baroque Chapel of Saint Anthony of Padua in Krakovec was built on Světina Hill between 1682 and 1686. A report by the Archdiocese dated 16 June 2023 noted that Fatima devotions had already been held in the chapel above Krakovec for more than 15 years at that time. The activities described in the report included a candlelight procession with a statue of Our Lady of Fatima and the recitation of the rosary.

Another religious monument stands outside Krakovec, on the road to Laškov: a stone cross dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius is located by the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. Together with the Chapel of Saint Anthony, it offers a distinct perspective on Krakovec’s sacred history, while the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the castle shape the history of Laškov.

Archaeological Traces and Historic Routes

Rmíz Hill above Laškov is a prehistoric hillfort site and an important archaeological site. It adds an archaeological perspective to local history alongside the later church and castle buildings. The so-called “Polish Road” also opens up a broader historical context. It is thought that one branch of this route ran from Prague via Litomyšl, Jevíčko, Konice, Krakovec and Náměšť na Hané to Olomouc, and then north through the Moravian Gate towards Poland, from the second half of the 10th century until the beginning of the 13th century.

Excursions and Practical Information

According to a hiking description last updated in 2012, the surfaced path on the excursion through the Rakovské Valley is suitable for walking and cycling. Check the trail conditions before setting out, as they may change. Visitors to Koupací biotop Laškov can use a designated car park on the grounds of the agricultural cooperative. Check the local regulations before your visit.

The options for planning your trip offer distinctly different experiences: the church, castle and chapel lead to architectural and religious history, Rmíz represents archaeology, and the path through the Rakovské Valley is an option for an excursion on foot or by bike. This can help you decide whether to focus your stay more on cultural history or outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Hrdibořice, Vincencov, Bílovice-Lutotín, Hrubčice, Raková U Konice, Kladky, Želeč, Klopotovice.

For the overview of the wider area: Okres Prostějov.