Masojedy: Chapel, Monument and Historical Traces

Masojedy’s history can be seen through several clearly distinct themes: its early settlement history, the chapel and its earlier history, and a monument to the citizens who fell in the First World War. Nearby are also the ruins of Šember Castle; cycle route 0089 also runs close to the village. This distinction is helpful when planning a stay: the chapel and monument are part of the village’s history, while the castle and cycle route are features of the surrounding area. This lets you decide whether to focus mainly on local history or also include the surrounding area in your travel plans.

Early Local History

Masojedy was founded in the early 14th century amid the Černokostelecké forests. The earliest written mention of the village dates to January 25, 1342. Its founding is dated to the beginning of the century; January 25, 1342, marks the first written mention, not an exact year of foundation. Throughout the second half of the 14th century, Masojedy belonged to the Skalický Monastery. The founding period, first written mention, and monastic affiliation thus mark different stages in the village’s early history.

The Chapel and Its Earlier History

The chapel in Masojedy dates from the late 19th century or around the turn of the 20th century. It stands on the site of an earlier bell tower in the form of a broad-crowned linden tree with a bell. Cadastral maps from 1841 document this earlier bell tower. The year 1841 therefore relates to the site’s earlier history, not to the dating of the present-day chapel. On the occasion of the celebration of the municipality’s 666th anniversary, the chapel was painted and restored; the work was led by Josef Vitovský of Hradešín. The earlier linden-tree bell tower, the later construction of the chapel, and its restoration in connection with the municipal anniversary can thus be understood as distinct historical layers.

The 1919 Monument

Near the chapel stands a granite monument to the citizens of Masojedy who fell in the First World War. It was erected in 1919 at the citizens’ expense; the lower inscription reads “1914–1919.” The year of construction and the inscription should be distinguished: 1919 marks its erection, while “1914–1919” appears on the lower inscription. While the chapel is understood through its construction history, the monument commemorates the fallen citizens. Both are part of the village’s history, but they highlight different aspects.

Šember Castle in the Surrounding Area

The ruins of Šember Castle are near Masojedy, but outside the village. They are considered an important archaeological site and evidence of earlier settlement. The surviving remains include walled-up sections of wall on the eastern side, depressions that suggest cellars, remains of building walls made of medieval masonry, the area of a half-timbered palace, and ramparts. Various kinds of remains can thus be found together: masonry, possible cellar spaces, a palace area, and fortifications. The ruins add a destination in the surrounding area to the history of Masojedy.

Cycle Route 0089

Cycle route 0089 also runs near Masojedy. If you plan to use it for a bike ride, check the current signage before setting out. The cycle route offers a separate planning consideration alongside the village’s historical attractions.

Discover more destinations: Radovesnice I, Krakovany, Nová Ves-Ohrada, Libenice, Týnec Nad Labem, Tři Dvory, Ratbor, Pňov-Předhradí

For the broader travel overview: Okres Kolín.