Bílovec is one of the most important cities in
Moravské Kravařsko and is a perfect point of departure for the exploration of the Poodří Protected Landscape Area. Its history reaches back into the early 14
th century, when the local estates were seized from the lords of Lichtenburg by King John of Bohemia and given to Lord Vok of Kravaře. First written mention dates back to 1324, a time when the city was referred to as Wagstadt, i.e. Vok's city.
The atmosphere of this old Silesian town, once part of the Sudetenland, can be felt by visitors virtually every step of the way. Its most valuable feature is the square with its renaissance town hall and subterranean maze of Gothic cellars. Following its renovations, the Saint Barbara Chapel—the last remaining building of the old infirmary—has become a sought-after venue for weddings, thanks to its unique interiors. The 14
th century Saint Nicholas Church is also worth a visit.
Tourists should also not miss out on a tour of the chateau of the Sedlnitzkýs of Choltitz, which has been newly restored, and offers an exposition of hunting trophies, as well as a hint of the interior furnishings of its former residents, among other things.
The Bílovec museum remembers the manufacturing activities of the famous local company, Massag, better known as KOH-I-NOOR, whose primary production included pens, pencils, and ski bindings, and supplied goods to sixty countries around the world.
The restored town square allows visitors to play chess on the
largest outdoor chess board in the Czech Republic, measuring 8 x 8 metres.
Today, Bílovec also prides itself on the fact that, in 1990, it became the birthplace of one of the foremost world tennis players,
Petra Kvitová.