Considering the origin of its name, did you know Vinařice was once envisioned as a hub for winemakers? The name Vinařice comes from “vinařci”. It meant “little winemakers.” Over time the name evolved into the Vinařice we know today.
Vinařice is a municipality and village located in the Kladno District. It lies in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. Vinařice is positioned about 4 kilometers north of Kladno. It is also about 20 km northwest of Prague. The Prague Plateau cradles this village.
The history of Vinařice dates back to 1277. King Ottokar II gave the village to the Ostrov Monastery in Davle. The monastery held Vinařice until the Hussite Wars. Afterward ownership passed to unknown nobles. By 1654 Vinařice became part of the Smečno estate. The Martinic family owned it.
Black coal was mined in Vinařice from 1874 to 1987. The mining industry spurred the municipality’s growth. This also led to an increase of the population.
Today Vinařice is home to the Vinařice Prison. It is a significant employer for the local economy. This prison is for men. It operates with medium and high security. It employs more than 300 people. The prison can hold 854 prisoners.
Although no major roads pass directly through Vinařice, the village has a past connection to railways. The railway that runs through the municipality is unused now.
One of Vinařice’s notable landmarks is the former Mayrau Mine. The complex features several buildings. It also has well-preserved mining machinery. Today it functions as a mining open-air museum.
Another historical landmark is the small chapel in the center of Vinařice. It dates back to the first half of the 18th century.
As of January 1 2024, Vinařice has a population of approximately 2,100 residents. The village occupies an area of 5.16 square kilometers. The highest point is Vinařická hora. It stands 413 meters above sea level.
From its humble beginnings as a potential winemaking center to its industrial and modern roles Vinařice has transformed. Vinařice has a rich history evident in its landmarks and stories.