Sacral Sites Open Their Doors Once More

Open Gates is a thriving initiative that has become quite popular with the public over the years, making it a significant part of the tourism offerings in the Zlín Region. This year, everyone is warmly invited to explore the stunning and historically significant sacred sites in the area, specifically from May 1 to September 30, 2025. Visitors will have the chance to appreciate not just the stunning architecture of these sacred structures but also the unique atmosphere that surrounds them. Entry to these monuments is free of charge, depending on arrangements made with each parish. Tours can take place either solely on weekends or throughout the entire week, and may be combined based on availability. However, during religious services or cultural events, guided tours will not be available.

So, which sacred monuments are opening their doors for you to explore? For instance, you can visit the Church of St. Stephen of Hungary in Francov Lhota, several churches in Holešov, the Baroque Church of St. John the Baptist in Kroměříž, the Church of St. Moritz, and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. In Luhačovice, there’s the Church of the Holy Family, and the Church of All Saints is waiting for you in Rožnov. The Open Gates initiative also features Štípa with the pilgrimage church dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the Baroque Church of St. Francis Xavier, and the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary in Uherský Brod, as well as the charming wooden churches located in Valašské Meziříčí, Velké Lhota, and Velké Karlovice. The city of Zlín is represented by the Church of St. Philip and Jacob. For additional information regarding the participating monuments, guided services, and tour timings, feel free to check out the official project website otevrenebrany.cz.

Open Gates Project: Explore Sacred Monuments in the Zlín Region (May–September 2025)

• Project Duration:
  From May to the end of September 2025.

• What’s Included:

  • Opportunity to explore 22 different religious monuments.

  • Tours are completely free of charge.

• What to Expect:

  • Guided tours led by trained professionals who share the rich history and spiritual importance of each site.

  • The goal is to make artistically and historically significant churches and chapels easily accessible to the public.

• Highlights:

  • The Church of St. Philip and St. James in Zlín is part of the program.

  • Visit traditional timbered churches in Valašské Meziříčí.

  • Discover the modern Church of the Holy Family in Luhačovice.

  • Learn about the Holy Trinity Church, whose renovation began in 2023.

  • The Tolerance Church in Velká Lhota: Jan Karafiát, author of the famous fairy tale “Beetles,” served here as pastor.

  • One of the featured structures has 24 angles in its design.