Křížová cesta z Nového Jičína do Štramberka Way of the cross

Křížová cesta z Nového Jičína do Štramberka is a historical monument in the village Rybí, which represents the Baroque heritage of the 17th century. The Jesuits built this 8,5-kilometer-long route for pilgrims travelling from New Jičín to the top of Mount Kotouč in Jubberg. Its importance is that it is one of many similar paths from the Baroque period, which the Jesuits created as part of religious and cultural life. The original building included fourteen stops, including walled chapels and God's grave, many of which were destroyed because of limestone mining. Today, the building is protected as a real cultural monument of the Czech Republic and preserved chapel is complemented by wooden crosses.

The history of the journey dates back to the 17th century when the Jesuits built it as part of their religious activities in the region. The original concept included twelve brick chapels, the chapel of St. John the Baptist and the tomb of God in the cave of the Devil's Hole. Over the years, some stops have been destroyed by quarry activity at the top of the Circuit. Despite these losses, seven chapels survived. The journey was reconstructed in 2011- 2013, with the missing chapel replaced by wooden crosses. The correction also included restoration of preserved chapels and installation of information tables with historical data on individual stops.

Architecturally, the original cross road was drawn in the Baroque style that the Jesuits preferred. Chaps and other stops came from masonry with rich decoration typical for this period. Although some parts of the route have disappeared, the preserved chapel has retained its original character and are now protected as cultural monuments.

Over the years, ownership and management of the monument have changed, but the specific history of these changes is not fully documented. Major events include its construction in the 17th century and reconstruction in the years 2011- 2013, initiated by the Club of Native and Friends of the City of Nová Jicin. The official blessing of the renewed route took place in 2013 by Bishop František Václav Lobkowicz, which underlined its religious and cultural value.

Today, the cross road from Nová Jičín to Šnamberk is accessible to visitors who can take advantage of the pilgrimage route and discover historical chapel. The current condition with wooden crosses replacing the missing chapel allows you to explore the entire journey in its continuity. The monument is worth visiting not only for its historical value, but also thanks to the possibility of admiring the beautiful landscape character of the area around June.

Křížová cesta z Nového Jičína do Štramberka is not only a monument but also a witness to historical changes. Its existence recalls the importance of preserving cultural heritage and offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and landscape of the region. For those interested in the Czech cultural heritage, this route is a necessary stop.