Vysoeina - Culture

If you are interested in touring a fantastic and near authentic folk village, you simply must go see Bethlehem, which is part of the Vysočina Set of Folk buildings located in this region. These old structures fell into disrepair for many years but gradually they were restored to their original glory. In 1993 Bethlehem was opened to the first visitors. Two years later, it was declared a folk architecture monument reservation. The exhibition is a unique group of timbered and brick houses dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. These buildings are located right in the middle of the town. Some of the buildings on display today are of original and some are imported.

During the tour visitors will see a weaver, a toy maker and a shoemaker. Tours are supplemented by various thematic programs. Visitors also will be able to experience a historic slice of life with exhibits featuring jewelry-making, cooking folk cuisine, making folk clothing, etc. On location there is a shop selling small souvenirs, ceramics and herbs. Each year, Bethlehem comes alive when the Adam’s folklore celebrations take place at the end of the summer. During these festivities, visitors will enjoy folk music, dancing and other cultural activities from the Czech Republic and abroad. Holland, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and other countries also take part in these celebrations.

Folk architecture can also be seen in several nearby villages. In Dřevíkov the square is surrounded by timbered and brick buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Another nearby village, Možděnice, is a former settlement of minor farmers. Other points of interest include Svobodné Hamry, a water-powered forging mill and a mansion dating from the 16th century. The mansion today is a popular and stylish restaurant.

The Renaissance Mydlář building in the nearby town of Chrudim houses a unique museum managing a collection of puppets from all around the world. Here you will enjoy thematically arranged exhibits mapping the history and presence of the Czech puppet theatres throughout the Czech Republic.

At the Hippology Museum in Slatiňany you can learn about the development of the horse which came from this region. The museum also presents artistic items on the subject of equines. The museum is housed in the beautiful interior of the Renaissance Slatiňany mansion. It is the most extensive in museum specializing in equine artifacts in all of Europe.

Another museum at the same location is a thematically focused exhibit on the Celtic settlement of this region. Here you will become acquainted with the lifestyle of the Celts by getting to know their crafts, farming methods, religion, funerals and lifestyles. The exhibition includes an interactive room where you can try to build a wooden puzzle of a thatched semi-underground hut. You can also assemble a stone circle representing the cultural symbol of the Celts.

The Municipal Museum in Skuteč is another interesting museum. Today’s museum building served as the residential house of the music composer, Vítězslav Novák. Visitors to the museum can tour the memorial hall of this famous composer. The museum is currently managed by the memorial of the Skuteč native and music composer, Václav Jan Tomášek.

We can offer vacation properties located close to the cultural activities. This makes it possible for you to enjoy all of the local festivals, art, museums and theatres while having all the comforts of “home.” Guests may enjoy the luxurious accommodations available in one of our beautiful houses, cabins, or apartments. Many of these rental accommodations include access to a sauna, Jacuzzi, pool or hot tub.  In many locations a maid service is also provided for a small additional fee.