See & Experience
The town of Hejnice lies at the northern foot of the Jizera Mountains, at an elevation of 375 meters above sea level; its main river is the Smědá. Most of this area is part of the Jizera Mountains Landscape Reserve.
The history of Hejnice has been closely linked to its pilgrimage church, which, according to tradition, dates back to 1211. The healing of the sick here was likely aided by the medicinal water that flows in the nearby village of Libverda. The Franciscan Order contributed to the town’s fame; its monastery was founded here in 1692 by Count František Gallas.
Iron ore mines were opened in the 16th century, and in the 19th century, several textile factories were established in the municipality and its surroundings.
The municipality of Hejnice was granted town rights on July 31, 1917.
It serves as an industrial and agricultural center but is also a starting point for tourists, with access to local public transportation.
The natural value of this area is of great importance for recreation. Several nature reserves and protected areas are located in the region of the mountain ridge. Currently, Hejnice’s cultural significance as a pilgrimage site is regaining importance.
Hejnice is home to the family house of Josef Riedel, the “glass king” of the Jizera Mountains, who was born here in 1816. In front of the house stands a commemorative plaque created by Josef Novotný of the Spider Glass factory in Heřmanice. The plaque was ceremoniously unveiled in 2024 by Maximilian Riedel, a descendant of Josef Riedel, and his wife. In Hejnice, in the Church of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary, there is also a monumental crystal chandelier that Josef Riedel donated to his hometown and to the church where he was baptized.
