HISTORY
HISTORY AND PRESENT
PRE-WAR PERIOD
The golden age of iron and forests
Mala Moravka was founded around 1594. Even then, its life was closely connected to what the surrounding landscape gave it: forests, ore and water. The main driving force was the mining of iron ore and its processing in ironworks, which were literally the beating heart of the village.
Before the First World War, the area was inhabited mainly by German-speaking people, whose culture was deeply rooted. Cows grazed on the slopes, smoke rose from the chimneys of the furnaces, and crafts flourished – from woodworkers to blacksmiths. But even then, “spa guests” – today we would call them tourists – were coming here to admire the healthy air and the beauty of the mountains.
Interesting fact: The church of St. Alois was built in the village in the 19th century, which is still a dominant feature and an important cultural monument.
Photo: the center of Mala Moravka in 1901
WAR PERIOD
New people, new beginning
After 1945, Mala Moravka, like many other border villages, found itself at a crossroads. The original German population was displaced, the houses remained empty and the landscape seemed to fall silent for a while. New residents came to replace the original inhabitants – Czechs from various parts of the republic. However, the village gradually regained its breath. In the 1950s and 1960s, recreation and tourism began to develop. Karlov, a part of Malá Morávka, began to turn into a ski resort that attracted visitors from a wide range of areas.
Interesting fact : The local ski lifts in Karlov were already in operation during socialism and were among the first organized areas in the Jeseniky Mountains.
Photo: former Alfred's cottage
PRESENT
A place where people return
Today, Mala Moravka is a lively, albeit quiet, mountain village. As of January 1, 2024, there were 658 inhabitants (source: maskrnovsko.cz). It still retains its natural beauty and connection with nature, but at the same time is not afraid to be modern. In winter, the village literally comes to life - Karlov pod Pradědem offers several ski resorts, slopes for families and adrenaline riders. In summer, cyclists' wheels spin again and tourists with backpacks stream along the mountain paths.
Interesting fact : It is from Mala Moravka that a popular route leads to the highest mountain in Moravia – Praded (1491 m). It leads through Hvezda and Ovcarna – a well-known point for all lovers of the Jeseniky Mountains.
Photo: Mala Moravka and Karlov 2024