Vysočina Region

Geography and characteristics

Vysočina's terrain is dominated by two upland ranges, the Žďárské vrchy and the Jihlavské vrchy, with altitudes that support cooler climates and extensive forests. Several rivers rise or flow through the region, including the Jihlava River, and the landscape alternates between meadows, woodlands and small farmed valleys. The region is divided administratively into five districts:

• Havlíčkův Brod
• Jihlava
• Pelhřimov
• Třebíč
• Žďár nad Sázavou

History and administration

The current Vysočina Region was created as part of the Czech Republic's administrative reform around 2000 and brings together territories with mixed historical ties to Bohemia and Moravia. Jihlava, the region's seat, has medieval roots as a mining and market town and later grew as a regional centre for trade and administration. Small towns and rural settlements preserve a large portion of the region's cultural heritage.

Economy, transport and culture

The economy combines agriculture, forestry and food production with engineering, light industry and services. Tourism plays an important role thanks to long-distance hiking, skiing in upland areas, spa and cultural tourism. The region is crossed by major transport corridors linking Prague and Brno, providing road and rail connections that support commuting and freight movement.

Notable sites and distinctions

Vysočina is notable for its well-preserved historic towns and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting diverse architectural and cultural values. The registered sites are listed below; more on UNESCO recognition is available at UNESCO:

• Historic centre of Telč — a compact market square with Renaissance and Baroque facades around a castle.
• Pilgrimage Church of Saint John of Nepomuk at Žďár nad Sázavou — an outstanding example of Baroque-Gothic sacral architecture with unusual geometry.
• Jewish Quarter and St Procopius' Basilica in Třebíč — preserved urban ensemble illustrating Jewish and Christian cultural relations.

Further reading on the region's listed monuments and visitor information can be found via regional cultural resources: World Heritage Sites in Vysočina.