Because of the labyrinth of narrow streets, Štramberk is sometimes called the Moravian Bethlehem. The town attracts visitors with its rich history, mysterious legends and wooden folk architecture. One truly unique feature is the local gingerbread confectionery in the shape of the human ear.
Štramberk was founded in the 14th century by John Henry of Luxembourg, brother of Emperor Charles IV. The town is located at the foot of the Beskids and can be recognised from afar because of the distinctive tower called the Trumpet (Czech: Trúba).
The historical centre consists of a unique row of bourgeois houses right in the market square. The brick buildings contrast with the wooden houses with shingled roofs, which are now typical rather of villages in the region of Valašsko. The system of streets and alleys, stairs and passages creates a mysterious labyrinth with a unique atmosphere.
The local delicacies are served at numerous restaurants, where you can also try the local beer called Trubač. Štramberk is also connected with the aroma of gingerbread, which you can smell in the narrow alleys. This cone-shaped confectionery called Štramberk ears is baked at many homes to commemorate the victory of the local people over the Mongol Horde which looted this region in the 13th century.
