Złote Góry

Zlaté Hory, formerly known as Cukmantl, is a town located in the Czech Republic, in the Olomouc Region, in the Opava Mountains, close to the border with Poland. The history of this region dates back to the 12th century, when Duke Vladislaus III Henry disputed the local gold mines with the Bishop of Wrocław. The first mention of the name Cukmantl comes from 1267, and for centuries the town was associated with mining activities, especially gold extraction. In the 16th century, Cukmantl became part of the Duchy of Nysa, and its development was linked to the goldsmithing and brewing industries. In the 17th century, the town experienced crises due to the Thirty Years' War, as well as witch hunts. In the 18th century, mining declined and was replaced by weaving; Cukmantl was shelled during the Silesian Wars but remained within Austria after the partition of Silesia. The 19th century brought the development of infrastructure, including street lighting and railways. After World War I, the town became part of Czechoslovakia, and German occupation lasted until 1945, after which residents of German origin were expelled. The town changed its name to Zlaté Hory in 1948. Communist authorities contributed to the further development of mining and infrastructure. In recent years, Zlaté Hory has become a popular tourist destination, attracting lovers of mountain hiking and history. Among the monuments are the charming town center, the ruins of Edelštejn, Leuchtenštejn, and Koberštejn castles, as well as the Chapel of St. Roch, which played an important role in local history. It is also worth visiting the pilgrimage church of Maria-Hilf and the 18th-century parish church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Active recreation enthusiasts can take advantage of numerous hiking and cycling trails. The unique mining open-air museum in the region attracts tourists interested in the history of gold mining. Interesting facts about Zlaté Hory also include former border crossings and rich collections of local cultural heritage, making the town an interesting place to explore and discover.