Ruda: Church, Cycling Trails and Historic Traces

Ruda combines historical landmarks with trails for cyclists and hikers. The Church of St. Giles is particularly prominent, with a history dating back to 1792. The area also offers regional traditions, recurring events, and destinations in the immediate and wider surroundings. If you are looking for accommodation in Ruda, you can therefore plan your stay around culture, outdoor activities, or seasonal discoveries.

The Church of St. Giles and the History of Ruda

The foundation stone for the present-day Church of St. Giles was laid on 25 May 1792, and the church was consecrated on 4 September 1795. Four bells hang in the church tower, including one from 1516 and one from 1709. The church is considered the most important historical monument in Ruda. A memorial to those who fell in the First World War stands next to it.

The first documented mention of Ruda dates back to 1353; at that time, the settlement was referred to as Hruda. Mining hammers on the municipality’s coat of arms and flag commemorate the historic iron ore mining industry. The pilgrimage dedicated to St. Giles also takes place every year. During the pilgrimage weekend, people in traditional dress helped with the preparations.

Traditions and Special Discoveries

During the Christmas season, you can view illuminated nativity scenes while walking through Ruda, in the Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk and in the window of the library in the cultural centre. A traditional nativity scene has been displayed at the same location in front of the church for decades. A reconciliation cross stone dating from 1812 also stands beside Holíkův Pond, which now serves as a fire-fighting reservoir. The monument measures 71 × 36 × 20 cm, making it a small, clearly documented testimony to local history.

Cycling and Hiking around Ruda

Cycling Route 5240 passes through Ruda and connects Bohdalec, Křižanov and Tasov. Free cycling maps are available at the local U Malců inn. Another option for cyclists is the “Golden Wheel of Vysočina”, a recurring cycling tour for unregistered cyclists of all ages. The tour starts and ends in Ruda near Velké Meziříčí.

A blue-marked hiking trail runs through the cadastral area of Ruda. The route options lead via Jabloňov and Tasov to Budišov, or via Ořechov and Osová Bítýška to Velká Bíteš. This allows you to choose between different directions when planning your route, while keeping the village as the starting point of the described trails.

Mountains and Destinations in the Region

The mountains Koní hora, Duforty and Ambrožný are located in the immediate surroundings of Ruda; Horka is situated in the area around Ruda. The wider region also includes Veveří Castle, a castle, as well as the ruins of Rabštejn and Tempelštejn. Svatý Marek is designated there as a church.

For further orientation, you can also explore the neighbouring places: Skrdlovice, Krásné, Dvořiště, Radňoves, Hamry Nad Sázavou, Milešín, Rudolec, Brezi Nad Oslavou.

To the higher-level travel overview: Okres Žďár Nad Sázavou.