This small Czech town, known for its slate mining history, sits in the Nízký Jeseník mountains. It has an open underground mine, Baroque architecture, and access to hiking trails.
Nestled in the Nízký Jeseník mountain range, Budišov nad Budišovkou is a small Czech town with a rich slate mining past. This calm settlement invites you to descend into underground mines, walk along the North Trail of Via Czechia, and admire the late Baroque Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. With its protected historic center and unique geological features, Budišov nad Budišovkou offers an authentic experience of the Czech countryside.
Location and Geography
Budišov nad Budišovkou sits in the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic, about 24 kilometers southwest of Opava and 43 kilometers west of Ostrava. The town is situated on the Budišovka Stream, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Nízký Jeseník range. Červená hora, the highest point in the area, reaches 749 meters above sea level. This geographical setting creates a calm atmosphere and allows for many hiking and cycling opportunities.
Slate Mining Past
Slate mining has shaped the town's identity since the 18th century. Budišov nad Budišovkou has the only open underground slate mine in the Czech Republic, which resumed operations in 2015. You can learn about this industrial history at the Slate Museum, housed in a former water mill next to the Baroque stone bridge. The museum displays tools, photographs, and slate samples that illustrate the town's mining story.
Historical Architecture
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary stands as a prime example of late Baroque architecture in Budišov nad Budišovkou. Built between 1745 and 1755, the church interior contains a late Gothic statue of the Madonna and Child from around 1500. Another significant historical structure is the Baroque stone bridge, which includes a statue of Saint John of Nepomuk. These well-preserved buildings have contributed to the town's designation as an urban monument zone.
Hiking and Cycling Trails
The landscape around Budišov nad Budišovkou provides numerous opportunities for hiking and cycling. The North Trail of Via Czechia, the longest hiking and cycling route in the country, passes through the area. On this trail, you can walk or ride through various Czech landscapes, including protected areas and numerous mountain ranges. Shorter local trails also allow you to discover the town's immediate surroundings, including former slate mines and natural landmarks.
Getting There and Around
You can reach Budišov nad Budišovkou by train, as it serves as the terminus of a local railway line from Suchdol nad Odrou. The town's compact size makes it easy to walk around. If you want to venture further into the surrounding countryside, local buses and rental bicycles are available. The proximity to larger cities like Opava and Ostrava also makes Budišov nad Budišovkou a good base for day trips in the Moravian-Silesian region.
