What if this unassuming village held secrets of emperors and ancient estates? This is Hlavenec. It is a municipality in the Prague-East District of the Central Bohemian Region. Hlavenec has a history stretching back centuries.
Hlavenec was first mentioned in writing in 1386. It was likely established alongside Kostelní Hlavno and Sudovo Hlavno. The Lords of Michalovice once owned it. Later, it became part of the Brandýs estate. The Habsburg family acquired the estate in 1547. Then Hlavenec became known for its imperial game park.
Today Hlavenec has a population of around 500. It sits in the Polabí lowlands. The landscape is flat, between the Jizera Table and Central Elbe Table. The highest point nearby is Kobylí hlava. It rises to 215 meters above sea level.
A key landmark near Hlavenec is the memorial to Emperor Charles VI. Matthias Braun created it in 1724-1725. František Maxmilián Kaňka designed it.
Let’s step back in time. Imagine Emperor Charles VI visiting in 1723. Count František Antonín Špork presented him with the insignia of the Order of St. Hubert. The count hoped to gain favor with the emperor and win the Order of the Golden Fleece. The memorial’s completion was celebrated on November 4, 1725. Prince Emanuel of Savoy attended. Count Špork even created commemorative medals for friends.
The monument in Hlavenec features a massive baldachin with columns. Braun added the stone decorations. This includes a statue of Charles VI.
Hlavenec offers more than just history. The village reflects a blend of past and present. Despite its small size, Hlavenec has a vibrant community. Several associations thrive here. These include the Volunteer Fire Department and the Sports Club. They also have Zelené srdce and Kobylí hlavy. These groups contribute to a rich cultural life.
In 2011 Hlavenec was recognized as the Village of the Central Bohemian Region. That same year, it placed second in the Village of the Year competition. Hlavenec actively works on village development projects. It regularly maintains the memorial to Emperor Charles VI. A new sidewalk enhances safety along the main road.
Hlavenec may be small. However, it offers essential services. Its location provides easy access to larger centers like Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav and Prague.
Notice the village’s coat of arms. A silver deer head with a golden cross stands on one side. An imperial crown above a hunting horn appears on the other. These symbols reflect Hlavenec’s history. They also reflect its connection to imperial hunting traditions.
Hlavenec. It is a village where history and community intertwine. The memorial of Charles VI stands as a reminder. It is a reminder of imperial visits and artistic achievements. As we conclude our visit, remember Hlavenec. It is a place where the past enriches the present.