Velká Klajdovka

Velká Klajdovka is a small but ecologically significant nature reserve on the south-eastern edge of Brno, spread across the slope of Hády hill. The site sits on the cadastral boundary between the Maloměřice and Židenice districts within the Brno-město municipal district, and despite lying close to dense residential areas, it has preserved the character of open, sun-exposed slopes covered in steppe and forest-steppe vegetation.

Why is this place protected?

The area was granted protected status in 1988, covering 10.58 hectares. The reason for protection lies in its unusual combination of xerothermic (dry, heat-loving) habitats — grasslands and sparse woodland that have long drawn the attention of naturalists. The steep, well-lit slope creates a microclimate favouring plant and animal species more typical of warmer parts of Europe than of the surroundings of Brno, a large industrial city.

A hotspot of biodiversity

Since the 19th century, Velká Klajdovka has been regarded as one of the region's key research sites for scientists studying heat-loving flora and fauna. The area is especially known for its rich insect life — it is a recognised entomological locality where a wide range of invertebrate species tied to steppe habitats has been recorded. The diversity of plant and animal species packed into such a small area makes it an important reference point for research into the biology of xerothermic terrain in Moravia.

Landscape and history of the site

The slope on which the reserve lies is part of the larger Hády hill complex, known in Brno chiefly for its former quarrying activity. A quarry once operated in the immediate vicinity of Velká Klajdovka, and traces of that past can still be seen in the surrounding landscape. This combination of naturally occurring steppe slopes with the remnants of human industrial activity gives the site a layered character — it is both an ecologically valuable habitat and a record of how Brno's residents once used this terrain.

What to know before visiting

The reserve's proximity to the city makes it an easily reachable destination for a short walk for residents of eastern Brno. The open, sun-facing slopes mean the best conditions for observing nature occur during the warmer months, when the steppe vegetation and the insects that depend on it are most active. Because of its protected status, visitors should respect local conservation rules — staying on marked paths helps protect the sensitive xerothermic habitats from excessive foot traffic.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Velká Klajdovka located? On the south-eastern slope of Hády hill, on the cadastral boundary between Maloměřice and Židenice, within the city of Brno.

Since when has the area been protected? It received protected natural area status in 1988.

How large is the reserve? The protected area covers 10.58 hectares.

What makes this site ecologically important? Its steppe and forest-steppe slopes support rich, heat-loving flora and fauna, including a particularly diverse and valuable insect community.

Are there traces of former industrial activity nearby? Yes, a former quarry once operated in the vicinity, and its remnants are still visible in the Hády hill landscape.