Křížky

Křížky is a small but botanically remarkable nature reserve set in the central part of the Slavkovský les Protected Landscape Area, right next to the village of Prameny in the Cheb district of the Karlovy Vary Region in western Czechia. Despite covering just 4.55 hectares at an elevation of 790–817 metres, this national nature monument protects one of the country's most important sites for rare plant life.

Where does the name come from?

The name Křížky ("little crosses") refers to three crosses that crown the hilltop. Sources differ slightly on their origin: some point to 1849, others to 1859, when the crosses are said to have been erected as an act of thanksgiving for recovery from illness. One of the crosses still bears the inscription "Hans u. Anna Hahn aus Sangerberg 1849," naming the donors who came from nearby Sangerberg, today's Prameny. The three crosses remain a striking, far-visible landmark on top of the hill to this day.

What makes this monument worth protecting?

The geological base of Křížky is amphibolite, a relatively rare rock type known locally as "hadec," which supports an unusually high number of rare and legally protected plant species. This specific bedrock is the key to the site's botanical uniqueness. The best-known resident is the chickweed Cerastium alsinifolium — one of the very few plant species endemic to Czechia, found nowhere else in the world except the amphibolite deposits around Mnichov. Alongside it, the rocky outcrop and surrounding meadows host a range of other rare plants adapted to the harsh conditions of this poor, stony soil.

A history of protection

The site was first placed under protection on 22 December 1962 by decision of the District National Committee in Cheb. In 2017 it was re-declared and slightly enlarged by the Administration of the Slavkovský les Protected Landscape Area, confirming its lasting natural value and the continued need for careful management.

Visiting Křížky

The reserve can be visited, though with some restrictions: the site is fenced, but a gate allows access directly to the spot where the three crosses stand. Because the location's main value lies in its fragile plant communities, visitors are encouraged to stick to the marked path rather than wandering off into the meadows or across the rock outcrop itself.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Křížky located? In the central part of the Slavkovský les Protected Landscape Area, near the village of Prameny, in the Cheb district of the Karlovy Vary Region in western Czechia.

How big is the protected area? It covers 4.55 hectares, sitting at an elevation of 790–817 metres above sea level.

Why is this site protected? For its rare plant communities growing on amphibolite bedrock, including the endemic chickweed Cerastium alsinifolium, found nowhere else in the world.

Where does the name Křížky come from? From the three crosses standing on the hilltop, likely erected in thanksgiving for the donors' recovery from illness.

Can visitors enter the site? Yes, a gate in the fence gives access directly to the crosses, though sticking to the marked path is recommended to protect the sensitive vegetation.