Přišimasy

Hidden within the Czech Republic’s heart lies Příšimasy, a village whose name whispers tales of ancient forests. Příšimasy wasn’t always one entity. It began as three distinct settlements: Příšimasy, Horka, and Skřivany. The oldest, Horka, appeared in records as early as 1279, perched atop a hill, its church a beacon in the landscape. Skřivany followed, nestled in a valley carved by a small stream, first mentioned in 1385. Příšimasy, the largest and most prosperous of the three, emerged later, a classic round village with a spacious central square and its own fishpond, documented from 1309. By the mid-15th century, these three villages, each with its own character and history, united under the name Příšimasy, taking the name of the wealthiest among them. This unification marked a turning point, creating the Příšimasy we know today. Příšimasy, Horka, and Skřivany, once separate threads, became interwoven into the rich tapestry of this village. The village has seen its share of change. In 1575, Jaroslav Smiřický ze Smiřic, then lord of the manor, rebuilt Horka’s church. The community thrived, establishing a school in 1856, a volunteer fire brigade in 1884, and even a Sokol gymnastic club in 1912. Příšimasy’s population has fluctuated over time, peaking at 942 in 1930 and experiencing a decline in the latter half of the 20th century. Today, Příšimasy is experiencing a resurgence, with new homes being built and families moving in, drawn by its tranquil charm and proximity to Prague. The village’s name itself is a source of local legends. While some believe it signifies a “passage of masses,” the true meaning likely comes from the old Slavic word “šum,” meaning forest. Příšimasy, therefore, means “founded by the forest,” a testament to its deep connection with the surrounding natural world.