The history of Zbýšov U Brna can be explored through several distinct themes: historic railways, hard-coal mining, church architecture and routes through the landscape. For planning, specific conditions matter: the Simson Mining Museum usually opens on the narrow-gauge railway’s operating dates; check the trail markers before setting out on a hike.
Railway and Mining Museum
Historic steam and motor trains run from Zbýšov to Zastávka u Brna and back. On the narrow-gauge railway’s operating dates, the Vlastivědný spolek Zbýšov usually opens the Simson Mining Museum, which it operates, and offers explanations by its guides. If you would like to combine the railway and museum, plan your museum visit around the railway’s operating dates and check the specific visiting days before your trip. Part of the mining museum’s exhibition opened in May 2017. Zbýšov also has a permanent exhibition on the history of the Zbýšov railway.
Mining History and Zbýšovská halda
Work on the Simson mine began in 1848, and it went into operation in 1853. Its headframe is an architectural and technical monument documenting the industrial development of the Rosice–Oslavany hard-coal basin in the 19th century. Zbýšovská halda also arose from local hard-coal mining: spoil was gradually deposited there during the 20th century. The spoil tip is more than 40 metres high, 500 metres long and 250 metres wide.
The southern slope of Zbýšovská halda offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape towards Padochov and Oslavany. Vegetation and visibility may change. An unmarked path leads to the summit from the end of Havířská Street. Check access conditions on site and follow safety requirements; access conditions may change.
Two Distinct Circular Routes
The circular route around Zbýšov is a way to learn more about the town’s mining past. It is about 10 kilometres long and follows local markers along two loops, one larger and one smaller. Check the markers before setting out on a hike. The Stezka permoníků circular route passes through rolling terrain, along paths with far-reaching views and through shady forests. The two hikes have different focuses: the Stezka permoníků highlights terrain, views and woodland, while the circular route around Zbýšov offers mining history, an approximate distance and a loop structure as practical points of reference.
Church and Nearby Nature
The present-day Neo-Romanesque Kostel sv. Martina was built in 1893–1894 on the site of an earlier church mentioned in a 1676 episcopal decree. Two bells have been preserved in its tower: the larger dates from 1652 and the smaller from 1762. One of the existing altars is dedicated to Saint Barbara, the patron saint of miners.
Nearby, Rybičková skála is currently designated as a protected natural formation. It is a continuous rocky gorge in the cut of the Neslovický potok, to the left of the road between Neslovice and Zbýšov.
Discover more destinations: Blažovice, Pravlov, Kaly, Skalička, Sentice, Bukovice, Medlov, Lomnicka
View the broader travel guide: Brno-Country District.
