Smírčí kříž, Stone conciliation cross in Martinice, Czech Republic
Smírčí kříž is a stone monument standing at the edge of Martinice village, approximately 120 centimeters tall and 65 centimeters wide, tilting slightly to the left. A schematic sword is carved into its surface, marking the location where armed conflicts once occurred.
The cross was erected to commemorate a battle fought in 1644 between rebellious subjects and imperial troops at this location. This conflict was part of the broader tensions between local forces and central authority in the region.
A schematic sword carved into one side of the cross represents the armed conflicts that took place in the region. This symbol shows how the location was marked by the disputes of its time.
The monument sits about 3.5 kilometers southeast of Holesov on the road to Frystak and is easy to reach by car or foot. Hiking trails in the surrounding area pass nearby, making it a natural stopping point during walks through the countryside.
In 1869, a classical stone cross on a tall pedestal was placed next to the original monument, creating a dual memorial site. This later addition shows how the memory of the location was expressed differently across different eras.
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