‎Hřbitov Vojnův Městec

Hřbitov Vojnův Městec is a small parish cemetery located next to the village of Vojnův Městec, in the scenic Vysočina (Bohemian-Moravian Highlands) region of the Czech Republic. While it isn't a mass tourist destination, it's a worthwhile stop for anyone travelling through this quiet corner of the country — the cemetery offers a glimpse into local sacred architecture and the history of a small rural community.

What is there to see at this cemetery?

At the heart of the cemetery stands the hřbitovní kaple, a modest cemetery chapel built in 1885 and dedicated to Saint Anthony the Hermit (also known as Anthony of Egypt or Anthony the Great). The chapel serves both as a place of prayer for visitors tending graves and as a local landmark, clearly visible from the parking area adjoining the cemetery grounds.

What is the history behind the chapel's bell?

The story of the chapel reflects the turbulent history of Central Europe in the 20th century. The original bell, cast in 1929 and weighing around 44.5 kilograms, fell victim to wartime circumstances — during the Second World War it was confiscated for the war industry, a fate shared by countless church bells across occupied Europe at the time. The bell tower stood silent for decades after the war.

It wasn't until the year 2000 that the situation changed: the Kulhánek family (Kulhánkovi) donated a new bell to the cemetery chapel, restoring it to full use. The same occasion saw partial repairs carried out on the tower, helping preserve the historic structure for the years ahead.

Where exactly is the cemetery located?

The cemetery sits directly beside the village of Vojnův Městec, in the Vysočina region in the central part of the Czech Republic. Its approximate coordinates are 49.68°N, 15.87°E. The surrounding area is known for its hiking trails and cross-country skiing routes — the parking area next to the cemetery is also commonly used by visitors setting off on walks or winter excursions across the nearby hills.

Is it worth visiting?

This isn't a classic tourist attraction, but rather a point of interest for those curious about local history, rural chapel architecture, and the calm, contemplative atmosphere typical of Czech villages. For travellers exploring the Vysočina region — known for its traditional wooden folk architecture and numerous nature reserves — a brief stop at the cemetery in Vojnův Městec can be an interesting addition to the itinerary.

Frequently asked questions

What is the hřbitovní kaple in Vojnův Městec? It's a cemetery chapel built in 1885, dedicated to Saint Anthony the Hermit, forming the central feature of the local cemetery.

What happened to the chapel's original bell? The bell, cast in 1929 and weighing 44.5 kg, was confiscated during the Second World War for wartime purposes.

When did the chapel get a new bell? In 2000, the Kulhánek family donated a new bell, and the tower underwent partial repairs at the same time.

Where is the cemetery located? Next to the village of Vojnův Městec, in the Vysočina region of the central Czech Republic.

Is it a major tourist attraction? No, it isn't a headline attraction in the region, but it's an interesting stop for those interested in local history and sacred architecture.