Kittelův dům Homestead

Welcome to Krásná. As you stand here, take a moment to truly absorb the atmosphere of your surroundings. You are standing before a remarkable piece of history, a place where the past feels remarkably present. Before you rises the Kittelův dům, a structure that has witnessed centuries of change, serving as a silent observer to the evolving life of this region. As you look at the building, try to imagine the sounds and sights of the mid-18th century, when this site first began to take shape. The air was different, the pace of life was slower, and this very spot was becoming a sanctuary for those in need of healing.

The story of this magnificent homestead begins around the year 1750. It was during this era, in the heart of the 18th century, that the foundation for what you see today was laid. This was not merely a construction project; it was the vision of a man whose reputation would become legendary in these parts. Johann Josef Antonín Eleazar Kittel, a renowned physician and healer, chose this location in Krásná to establish his home and his practice. He was a man of science and compassion, and he required a space that could accommodate both his family life and his professional calling. Because of his significant presence and the importance of this location, the local people eventually gave the house a special name, calling it Burk, a term derived from German roots that echoed through the generations.

As you direct your attention to the architecture of the building, please notice the impressive scale of the structure. You are looking at a large, three-story timber-framed homestead, a style that speaks to the traditional craftsmanship of the period. Notice how the building is composed; it is not a uniform mass, but a thoughtful combination of materials. The ground floor is partially constructed of masonry, providing a solid, sturdy base that anchors the house to the earth. Above this, the timber-framed construction takes over, creating a sense of warmth and organic connection to the landscape. Look upward and observe the mansard roof, a distinctive architectural feature that adds a sense of elegance and complexity to the silhouette of the house. This design was not just about aesthetics; it was a practical way to maximize the space within the upper levels, allowing the house to serve its many functions.

Now, let us consider the purpose of this house, for it was far more than just a residence. Under the care of Johann Josef Antonín Eleazar Kittel, the Kittelův dům functioned as a multi-purpose center. It was a home, yes, but it was also a pharmacy and a small sanatorium. Imagine the activity that once filled these rooms. This was a place where medical knowledge met hospitality. The physician provided care to a wide spectrum of society, from the local commoners to members of the nobility. It was a rare space where different social classes might cross paths, all united by the common goal of health and recovery. This dual identity as both a private sanctuary and a public place of healing is what gives the building its unique soul.

The Kittel family remained deeply connected to this house for many decades. The legacy of the physician was carried forward, and the property remained in the hands of the Kittel family until 1817. Names like Johann Josef Antonín Eleazar Kittel and Ignác Kašpar Antonín Kittel are etched into the history of this site, representing a lineage of influence and service to the community. When you think about the people who walked through these doors, think of the patients seeking relief and the family members maintaining the traditions of their house.

However, the passage of time is rarely kind to historic structures. For many years, the Kittelův dům faced the inevitable wear and tear that comes with centuries of existence. There were times when the very stability of the timber-framed walls was at risk. It was not until 2004 that a vital turning point arrived. Significant rescue work was initiated to save this treasure. Engineers and specialists worked to provide structural stabilization and to perform essential sanitation of the timber constructions. These efforts were not just about fixing a building; they were about preserving a piece of our collective memory. It was a race against time to ensure that the craftsmanship of the 18th century would not be lost to decay.

The culmination of these preservation efforts led to a wonderful new chapter in the building's life. In the summer of 2019, the Kittelův dům was officially opened to the public as the Kittelovo muzeum. What was once a private home and a place of healing has now become a place of learning and reflection. The museum allows us to step back in time and understand the life of the Kittel family and the medical history of the region.

As you prepare to continue your journey, consider the incredible resilience of this place. From its origins in 1750 to its rebirth as a museum in recent years, the Kittelův dům has survived through dedication and care. It stands as a testament to the life of a great healer and the enduring beauty of traditional architecture. We invite you now to move closer, to explore the details of the museum, and to immerse yourself in the stories held within these walls. Take your time, wander through the spaces, and let the history of Krásná unfold before you. Thank you for joining us, and enjoy your exploration of the Kittelův dům.