Way of the Cross in Nejdek

The Way of the Cross in Nejdek is one of the most valuable sacred landscape monuments in the Karlovy Vary Region. It climbs for 1.6 kilometres along the north-western slope of Křížový vrch directly above the historic centre of Nejdek. Fourteen stone chapels from the 1840s and 1850s line the path to a striking seven-metre iron crucifix. The trail gains roughly 110 metres, follows broad forest switchbacks and works equally well as a pilgrimage route, a nature walk and a gentle family outing.

History

The Nejdek Way of the Cross began with the bequest of Anna Häcklová (1752-1840), a Nejdek townswoman who left her estate for the creation of this spiritual place. The project was carried out by Franz Waldöstl (1791-1871), a town judge and municipal representative, together with the Way of the Cross Foundation. Construction took place between 1851 and 1858.

The fourteen chapels are carved from massive granite blocks, each about 3.5 m high, 1.75 m wide and 85 cm deep. They are crowned by triangular gables, decorative cornices and stone crosses. The reliefs with scenes from the Passion were created by sculptor Hermann Kouby, while the metalwork was designed by Stanislav Nádeníček. The whole ensemble was conceived as an open-air gallery, a quality the Nejdek Way of the Cross still carries today.

The Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre was added on Křížový vrch in 1862-1863. The first wooden cross followed in 1863 and was replaced in 1897 by the monumental iron crucifix that still stands above the landscape.

After 1950 the entrance Chapel of the Mount of Olives was demolished and the Chapel of the Holy Sepulchre gradually fell into disrepair. After 1989, the local civic association JoN - Jde o Nejdek took up the restoration. Volunteers repaired the individual chapels and restored their artistic decoration over many years. The restored Way of the Cross was blessed on 31 August 2008, during the 150th anniversary year of its completion.

Route

The trail starts on the edge of Nejdek. From Karel IV Square, follow the green or yellow hiking marker towards Krásná vyhlídka and after about 500 metres you reach the beginning of the Way of the Cross. The path then climbs in pleasant forest switchbacks towards the top of Křížový vrch, with each granite chapel offering a quiet stop and a close look at the reliefs.

About halfway up is Rajmannova vyhlídka, a viewpoint over the southern part of Nejdek and the surrounding slopes. At the summit, around 690 m above sea level, the seven-metre iron crucifix forms the landmark of the hill, with broad views over historic Nejdek and the wooded valley of the Rolava River.

You can return the same way or choose an alternative forest path along the slope. The trail is especially atmospheric in autumn, when the beech and maple colours light up the hillside.

Practical Information

The trail is freely accessible year-round and admission is free. The paths are broad and maintained, suitable for families with children and older visitors; pushchairs are possible with some assistance. The walk itself takes about 30-45 minutes one way. Allow roughly 1.5-2 hours for the full there-and-back visit with stops at the chapels and viewpoints.

Wear outdoor shoes, especially outside the summer season. The rocky summit can be slippery in winter.

Directions and Contacts

Nejdek lies about 12 km north-west of Karlovy Vary on road I/25. The Way of the Cross is reached on foot from Karel IV Square in the town centre, about 500 m from the square.

• Address: Křížová cesta, Nejdek, 362 22, Karlovy Vary Region
• GPS: 50.3241, 12.7376
• Tourist Information Centre Nejdek: náměstí Karla IV. 241, 362 21 Nejdek
• Phone: +420 353 240 135
• E-mail: infocentrum@nejdek.cz
• Website: nejdek.cz