Folk architecture

 

 

Bethlehem is part of the Vysočina Set of Folk buildings. Gradually the individual buildings began to be repaired and in 1993 Bethlehem was opened to the first visitors. In 1995 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 in the middle of the town, of which some are original and some are imported. During the tour visitors can acquire an idea of the life of a weaver, a toy maker and a shoemaker. Tours are supplemented by various thematic programs, which are devoted for example to Christmas and the Easter holidays and the traditions connected with these, manufacture of jewellery, cooking folk cuisine, making folk clothing, etc. A shop selling small souvenirs, ceramics and herbs is located in Bethlehem. Bethlehem comes alive at the end of the summer holidays when the Adam’s folklore celebrations take place. Apart from the Hlinec ensembles, Vysočánek and Vysočan, ensembles from other places in the Czech Republic and from abroad – Holland, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and other countries – also take part in the celebrations.















 

The Vysočina Set of Folk Buildings also includes Veselý Kopec (Happy Hill). The first visitors were able to view the exhibition in 1972. A group of timbered cottages dating from the 18th and 19th Centuries remind one of a traditional village set in the local landscape. Some buildings are original and some have been imported from other areas of the Czech-Moravian Highlands. The interiors of the timbered cottages are again evidence of the lifestyles of craftsmen and farmers living in this area. Tours are traditionally supplemented by programs that are focused on holidays, folk traditions and customs and crafts such as wire working, pottery, weaving and others. Fairs are regularly held in Veselý Kopec, which manufacturers of folk items from the whole Czech Republic participate in and where visitors can purchase their products. The buildings distributed in quiet nature attract a large number of visitors every year.















 

Folk architecture can also be seen in these villages. In Dřevíkov the square is surrounded by timbered and brick buildings dating from the 18th and 19th Centuries. Možděnice is a former settlement of minor farmers and forest and pond worker. Points of interest in Svobodné Hamry include the water-powered forging mill, the mansion dating from the 16th Century and the stylish restaurant.









 

This originally Gothic church was built in 1397 and is the most valuable monument in the village. Later on it was rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style. In the interior it is possible to see wall frescos, a compartment ceiling, a pulpit and a desk picture of the Coronation of the Virgin Mary. The church was expanded by a wooden bell tower the form of a spire, into which a wooden bridge leads over a small water-filled moat.