Huddled on Kotou\u010d Hill, the townspeople of \u0160tramberk faced an invading army. That’s just one legend associated with \u0160tramberk. Today we stand before \u0160tramberk, a town in the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic. Its historic center is well-preserved. It is protected by law as an urban monument reservation.
\u0160tramberk’s history stretches back to 1211. A village was documented then, under an eponymous castle. In 1359, \u0160tramberk was founded by John Henry. He was the Margrave of Moravia.
But what about that castle? Its origin and age remain unknown. Legend says dwarves thwarted its initial construction on Kotou\u010d Hill. They were from the Devil’s Hole cave. The castle is associated with royal land administration. It may have defended land borders. The noble family of Bene\u0161ovice or the P\u0159emyslid princes of Olomouc may have built it.
In the 13th century, the Knights Templar owned the castle. After the Order’s abolition in 1312, Bohemian King Jan Lucembursk\u00fd possessed it. Charles IV, then Moravian Margrave, owned it from 1333 to 1346. After 1533, the castle gradually decayed.
Fast forward to the early 20th century. The cylindrical tower was roofed. It became a lookout tower. Prague architect Kamil Hilbert designed the adaptation. The Gothic tower and grounds became a landmark. Since 1994, the town has owned \u0160tramberk.
Look up to see the remnant of \u0160tramberk Castle. It is a cylindrical tower called Tr\u00faba. Repaired in the early 1900s, it now serves as an observation tower.
Now let’s talk about those famous \u0160tramberk ears. \u0160tramberk is known for the production of \u0160tramberk ears. This traditional confectionery has been produced for about 800 years. It is a protected geographical indication by the European Union. It was the first Czech product with this designation. The legend says the ears commemorate the Tartar invasion of 1241. Townspeople sought refuge on Kotou\u010d hill. The Tartars were defeated. Sacks of severed human ears were found. These sacks contained proof of their bloody conquest. The \u0160tramberk ears became a symbol of the town. They remind everyone about the townspeople’s courage.
Besides the castle, \u0160tramberk offers other sights. The historic center features timbered houses. They date from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Baroque parish Church of Saint John of Nepomuk is on the town square. Jano K\u00f6hler decorated it in the early 20th century. Also explore the freely accessible \u0160ipka Cave. On B\u00edl\u00e1 hora hill, there is an observation tower. It is in the shape of a double helix.
\u0160tramberk has seen many changes. It was once the centre of Moravian Church. It was acquired by the Jesuits. It was annexed by Nazi Germany. Despite these trials, \u0160tramberk remains a vibrant town.
As you explore \u0160tramberk, remember its layers of history. From its prehistoric roots to its medieval castle. From its famous ears to its resilient spirit. \u0160tramberk invites you to discover its unique charm.