Berenek

Berenek is a small municipality and village located in the Znojmo District within the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic. The settlement lies approximately 12 kilometres northeast of Znojmo and 54 kilometres southwest of Brno, situated on the Sudeten Foreland along the upper course of the Svratka River. The area of Berenek covers around 4.5 square kilometres and sits at an elevation of about 190 metres above sea level.

According to the latest census, Berenek has a population of roughly 420 residents. The demographic structure reflects a typical rural community, with a mix of families engaged in agriculture, service sectors, and commuting to nearby larger towns for employment. The official language is Czech, while German is also used by a minority group due to the village’s historical ties to the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The first written mention of Berenek dates back to 1257, when it was recorded in a deed of the Přemyslid patriarch. Over the centuries, the village was shaped by feudal possession, the influence of the Habsburg Monarchy, and periods of Ottoman incursions in the 16th century. During the 19th century, Berenek benefited from agricultural reforms and the introduction of viticulture, which remains an important component of the local economy. In recent decades, the municipality has promoted tourism, focusing on cultural events, local gastronomy, and the preservation of historical buildings.

Key landmarks include the Church of Saint George, a baroque chapel dating from the 18th century, and the remnants of a medieval castle that once provided defensive oversight of the surrounding plains. The village hosts an annual harvest festival that attracts visitors from neighboring towns, showcasing traditional crafts, music, and regional specialties. The local administration works closely with regional authorities to manage land use, environmental protection, and infrastructure improvements, ensuring that Berenek maintains its rural charm while adapting to contemporary needs.