Czechia Page 18

Czechia

Czechia is the country located in the heart of Europe. Since 2004 it is an active member of European Union. Among the neighbors are Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. Since 2010 it has become a very attractive for tourists and travelers. According to various statistics, Czechia and its capital Prague is one of the most popular destinations for New Year and Christmas holidays, summer vacations and short weekend trips.

  • Capital: Prague;
  • Geographical size: 78 868 km²;
  • Population: 10 538 275 (2015);
  • Official EU language: Czech;
  • Political system: parliamentary republic;
  • Currency: Czech koruna (CZK);
  • Schengen area member: since 21 December 2007.

History

The whole history of the Czech Republic can be split into the following period:

  1. 500 – 1306: The Great Moravian Empire and the Přemyslid Dynasty;
  2. 1310 – 1378: John of Luxembourg and Charles IV;
  3. 1415 – 1526: The Hussite Era and George of Poděbrady;
  4. 1526 – 1790: The Habsburg Dynasty to Joseph II;
  5. 1790 – 1914: National Revival to World War I;
  6. 1918 – 1945: The First Republic and World War II;
  7. 1945 – 1989: The Communist Era;
  8. 1989 – present: Velvet Revolution and Beyond.

During the whole its history Czechia as a country changed the name, territory, languages, rulers, dynasties, accumulating for future generations a lot of interesting information, unbelievable legends, fantastic architecture and inspiring examples of manpower.

Cities

There are 20 cities in the Czech Republic with population over 50 000 people and 6 with over 100 000 people. These are: Prague (the capital), Brno, Ostrava, Plzen, Liberec and Olomouc. All of them are very interesting destinations for a day trip.

Prague

The Capital of the Czech Republic, the city of hundred spires, the place with the biggest and oldest city centre in central Europe. These are all nicknames of Prague. Being the cultural, educational, political and economical centre of the country for many years, it has become also a popular touristic hub.


Brno

Brno is the southern capital of Czechia. Located on the boarder with Slovakia, it has its own charm, dialect, culture and attitude towards the rest of the country. Brno is well-know worldwide for its universities, vineries and amazing recreation facilities. It is also a good destination for a short 2-day trip from Prague.


Ostrava

Ostrava has always been an important industrial centre of the Czech Republic, but due to the fact, that coal, which was the main resource of the area, was limited, the city had to change itself. Today more and more people come to in Ostrava the remnants of the industrial past. It’s also popular for an amazing annual music festival “Colours of Ostrava”, held in July.


Castles

Czechia is extremely reach on castles. According to different estimations, there are about 2000 places which are castles, chateaus or just remnants and ruins of former impressive constructions. Traveling to the places like Czech Krumlov, Karlstejn, Hluboka nad Vltavou, Konopiste should be an indispensable for any tourist visiting Prague. These are the must see attractions among top 10 things to do and to see in the Czech Republic.

Mountain

Mountains are play an important role in the life of the country. They make the natural boarder around Czechia, thus giving amazing opportunities for active life style. There are more than 200 places for sky and snowboard lovers, with over 500 kilometres of hills. Each year they are properly checked and prepared for new season. Most popular destinations for both winter and summer mountain activities are Krkonoše with the highest peak Sněžka 1602 m.

Spa

Czech Spa resorts are the following attractive feature of the country. People come to Karlovy Vary or Marianske Lazne to recover after certain troubles, to support and heal the body. All the medical destinations today have a perfect choice of hotels to stay, multi-language support and perfect service for very reasonable price. That is why more and more people from all over the world choose Czechia as the best variant for travelling abroad for treatment.

Třebíč (Trebic) is situated 55 km to the west from Brno. This city is widely known for its Romanesque basilica and restored Jewish ghettos, protected by UNESCO since 2003. Going there you will get into a fairy tale setting...
Kromeriz is a small city 20 km northwest of Zlín and 60 km northeast from Brno. Since 1110 it has been serving as the residence of the Olomouc bishops, but now it is a quiet and peaceful place with...
Kutna Hora is a city in Bohemia, which is called the treasury and the jewel of the Czech Republic. Rich saves of silver attracted a lot of attention to the region and later made the history of the city....
While walking along the New Town in Prague you may notice a beautiful gothic Jindrisska Tower. A lot of tourists don't imagine that it is a famous entertainment point. Despite being right in front of you at the same...
Prague’s cultural side needs a lot of time for exploring. That is why staying in the city center helps a lot with it. In this article we will speak about the best hotels near Charles Bridge in Prague. We...
The beauty of the Czech Republic is not only about Prague. In order to feel the spirit of the country it is even better to include other destinations into the must-visit list and Olomouc is a good choice. In...
Going on a business trip to Prague or having some unpredictable situations, there are a plenty of options where to stay in. In this article we will single out the top 10 best hotels near Prague airport. We will...
No Charles Bridge tour in Prague is the best chance to experience the local life. Meeting at the very heart of the city we will make our way on e-bikes or e-scooters (you choose the transport) along the river...
Ostrava attracts tourists with unique architecture that is different from the rest of the country: coal mines, huge industrial complexes and thematic monuments. Moreover, it is the third largest city in the Czech Republic, which has many interesting places...