Velké Opatovice

Czech Republic, Czech Republic (Czechia)

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Velké Opatovice is a town in the South Moravian Region of Czechia with a history dating back to at least 1308, originally consisting of two separate villages called Horní (Upper) Opatovice and Dolní (Lower) Opatovice.

These villages merged in 1848, becoming simply Opatovice, and the prefix "Velké" meaning "great" was added in 1888. The town officially gained its status in 1969. Velké Opatovice is known for its Baroque castle built in 1757 on the site of a former Gothic fortress, and the castle underwent Art Nouveau modifications in 1913.

The castle now houses museums, the town hall, and a cinema. The town is also home to the Moravian Cartographic Centre, showcasing cartographic history, and features cultural highlights such as sculptures by local sculptor Karel Otáhal. The Church of Saint George, rebuilt in the late 18th century, stands as a notable landmark with its altar sculpture depicting Saint George's battle with the dragon.

The surrounding forests and local ponds provide recreational opportunities, making Velké Opatovice both a historical and cultural destination in the region.