 |
| Mikulov |
Technical and Crafts Museum – Koloveč - Museums and Galleries in the Czech Republic 4.
Location: Koloveč, West Bohemia
The Technical and Craft
Museum in Koloveč with its area of 1000m2 and more than 7500 exhibits
is one of the largest museums of that kind in the Czech Republic. We
can find here all traditional handicrafts and trades which were
performed by people in the country. Visitors explore 47 period shops,
handicraft workshops, trades and 12 technical exhibitions in the
museum: butcher’s, baker’s, confectioner’s, wig-maker’s,
coopery, saddler’s, hatter’s, brush maker’s, stonecutter’s,
watchmaker’s, hairdresser’s and barber’s, pub, grocery, weaver
and dentist’s with a lab. We can see here collections of clocks and
music machines, children prams and toys, electric devices, kitchen
equipment, traps, milk processing and fire station. The highlight of
the museum is the famous “Magic Mill” where old women are
“recycled” to young girls.
We shouldn’t miss
the family Volf’s potter’s workshop where traditional pottery is
produced since 1785. Reddish brown clay and a simple decoration are
typical for the Koloveč
pottery. Since 1900 a dark blue colour appears in addition to the
reddish brown.
Open: March – October / daily 9:00 – 17:00, November – February / after agreement
More information:
www.muzeum-kolovec.cz
Kašperk castle - Castles, fortresses and chateaux in the Czech Republic 5.
Location: Kašperk, South Bohemia
Kašperk,
the most highly situated royal castle in Bohemia (886 metres above
sea levels) dominates the Bohemian Forest scenery already more than
860 years. Castle visitors are attracted not only by the impressive
landscape view but also by the atmosphere of a Middle Ages castle.
Kašperk is also regarded as a typical example of the period of
Charles IV architecture.
The
castle was built by order of the Czech king and Roman emperor Charles
IV in just five years during 1356-1361. Since the very beginning, the
castle crew had to fulfil three missions: protect the local
gold-bearing district, guard the border with the neighbouring Bavaria
and secure the traffic on the trading road, so called Golden Path.
Ruins of an advanced fortifications, so called Pustý hrádek, have
been preserved about 400 metres from the castle and offer a beautiful
view to the castle itself as well as the surroundings.
Two
different sight-seeing tour are prepared for the tourists. Both of
them finish with a beautiful view from the castle tower.
Velký Lopeník Lookout Tower - Lookout and TV Towers in the Czech Republic 3.
Location: East Moravia
The Velký Lopeník Lookout Tower is a twenty-two metres high
wooden lookout tower. It was constructed at the second highest hill of
the White Carpathians, 911 metres above sea level. It symbolizes the
Czech-Slovak friendship. A spectaculous view on the Czech and Slovak
part of the White Carpathians opens in front of us, if we climb 101
stairs. Without attendance only at our own risk.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun
10-18
More information:
www.obec-lopenik.cz
Dudák - Czech Breweries 3.
Location: Strakonice, South Bohemia
Strakonice has a long
beer brewing tradition. The town grew from the villages below the
castle built in 1230. Beer had been brewed there since before 1308.
Bavor IV of Strakonice granted the local people the right to brew
beer on 8th
December 1367.
Due to the hardships of the Thirty Years’ War, the
impoverished beer makers agreed with the town authorities to
establish a common brewery in house No. 47 in 1649. At that time,
there were 158 houses with the right to brew beer in Strakonice. The
town brewery was expanding, and the old technology was replaced by
new industrial ones. In 1873-74 a steam-driven brewery was built on
the bank of the Otava river, and the old house turned into a malt
house. The World War I. and II. was a catastrophe for the local beer
making too, and in 1948 the brewery was nationalized and incorporated
into South Bohemian Breweries. After the Velvet Revolution the life
of the brewery has been changed. After a long process of
privatization, in 2005 the Strakonice Brewery went to the ownership
of the city, and now the town of Strakonice is the only shareholder
of this company. Extensive modernization was started and it will
completed in 2019. In 2011 the company changed its name to DUDÁK
(Bagpiper). The brewery offers various types of beer that are
demanded, among others Švanda
draught pale ale, Dudák premium pale and dark lager, Klostermann
semi-dark lager, or Král Šumavy
pale lager. Another popular brand is Sklepák unfiltered lager. The
taste of Strakonice beer is strong and popular.
Velké Losiny / Museum of paper - Museums and galleries in the Czech Republic 3.
Location: Velké
Losiny, Central Moravia
One
of the oldest manufactures for paper production in Europe was founded
in Velké Losiny in the mid 90’s of the 16th century by John the
younger of Žerotín – first mentioned in the year 1596. Nowadays
Classicist appearance with typical mansard shingle roof was obtained
in the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The handmade
paper factory has still made the paper by the traditional process
from cotton and flax. Thanks to its high quality and century-long
durability it is mainly used by artists, by firms for their
bibliophiles, and also for bookmaking and restoration practice.
Handmade paper and the current exclusive product range from these
papers have won a standing position and permanent popularity among
those who love traditional Czech handmade products. The second,
additional visit tour was opened for the season 2007 offering
untraditional view of the technical background of paper mill in Velké
Losiny.
Paper Museum
was founded in the year 1987, it is only one paper museum in the
Czech Republic, and is opened for the public all the year. Also
Museum gallery and stylish restaurant Losín were opened after the
entire premises have undergone several stages of costly repairs in
the years 1996-2006. The
unique premises of this important technical monument with a history
of more than four centuries of continuous traditional production of
handmade paper have no match in Central Europe. It was declared
National Cultural Monument by the Czech Government in 2002 and is
listed in UNESCO tentative World Heritage list. www.rucnipapirna.cz,
www.papermuseum.eu
.JPG)
The Bozkov Dolomites Caves – Natural and landscape values of the Czech Republic 3.
Location: Bozkov, Bohemian Paradise
The
Bozkov Dolomite Caves are situated on the northern slope of the
Bozkov village in the hilly landscape of the Krkonoše foothills. The
Caves are the longest cave system in the Czech Republic formed in
dolomite limestone.
The
entrance into the underground space was discovered by dolomite miners
in the 1940s, but only in 1957 the underground system of fissure
corridors, partly filled with water, was discovered. The Bozkov
dolomite caves is a labyrinth of underground corridors and cavities
situated not very deep under the surface. Alongside the rare
stalactite decoration the walls of the underground corridors and
halls are decorated with the unique honeycomb and reticular silica
structures formed by so –called selective corrosion. The visit
culminates in the Lake Dome with the beautifully lit largest
underground lake in Bohemia.
The
Bozkov dolomite caves is the only cave system in North Bohemia
accessible to the public. The groups are recommended to reserve the
guided tour in advance: www.caves.cz.
The caves and their surroundings is a protected area conditioned by
the nature and landscape protection law.
Dívči Kámen (Girl’s Stone) Castle - Castles, fortresses and chateaux in the Czech Republic 4.
Location: near Křemže, South Bohemia
Monumental
and romantical castle built on a high in the beautiful countryside
above where the Křemžský stream meets the River Vltava between the
towns of České Budějovice and Český Krumlov.
Dívči
Kámen is one of the most extensive and well-preserved medieval
monuments in the Czech Republic. The are of the castle was declared a
natural reservation and is part of the Protected Landscape Area of
Blanský les (Blansko Forest). The place is made even more attractive
by a nearby Celt oppidum (fortified settlement) whose importance and
size make it unique in Europe. The castle was founded by the
Rosenberg family in 1349 and abandoned by them in 1506. Five hundred
years later it came into the ownership of the village of Křemže.
Currently, the castle is open all year round. Concerts, historical
presentations, fencing and theatre, medieval markets and fairs,
lectures and exhibitions are held within the castle.
Bat'a Shoe Museum - Museums and galleries in the Czech Republic 2.
Location: Zlín, East Moravia
The museum is located in the entrance building of the former Tomas Baťa factory in the central part of the Zlín city (the Czech shoemaking capital) centre. The original collection (collected by the Baťa family, and the purchasing agents) was first presented to the public in 1931, so the this collection is one of the oldest shoe collection in the world. In 2012 the shoe exhibition is a part of the Southeast Moravian Museum, and its home, the Baťa Institute Building 14/15 was totally renewed, and modernised.
The Shoe Museum presents over 4000 exhibits and tell the history
of shoes from the very beginning to present times. The most extensive
and comprehensive collection in the museum deals with shoes
manufactured by the Baťa company. The collection includes production
from the year 1894 (foundation of the factory), until nationalisation
in 1945. Beside that a quite unique collection of footwear from
various foreign nations can be seen. It contains different types of
footwear coming from all continents. Textile slippers from a feudal
China, Ataman boots from 1911, African
sandals, footwears from India, and sandals made of emu feather and human hair (used in ritual
ceremonies in Australia).
The collection also reflects footwear development from the earliest periods (shoe replicas) of the Czech history up to the present days. The replicas are made in Baťa modelling department according to original pictures and patterns. They received their names according to the presumed owners, so we can see a replica of a riding boot of King Wenceslas, high boots owned by Albrecht von Waldstein (Wallenstein), Božena Němcová's textile ankle-boots and elastic-sided shoes worn by Bedřich Smetana. The oldest original footwear dates back to the first half of the 17th century. Beside the beautiful shoes the visitors can also get a detailed overwiew about the development of the Baťa company, and city of Zlín.
The museum is located in the entrance building of the former Tomas Baťa factory in the central part of the Zlín city (the Czech shoemaking capital) centre. The original collection (collected by the Baťa family, and the purchasing agents) was first presented to the public in 1931, so the this collection is one of the oldest shoe collection in the world. In 2012 the shoe exhibition is a part of the Southeast Moravian Museum, and its home, the Baťa Institute Building 14/15 was totally renewed, and modernised.
The collection also reflects footwear development from the earliest periods (shoe replicas) of the Czech history up to the present days. The replicas are made in Baťa modelling department according to original pictures and patterns. They received their names according to the presumed owners, so we can see a replica of a riding boot of King Wenceslas, high boots owned by Albrecht von Waldstein (Wallenstein), Božena Němcová's textile ankle-boots and elastic-sided shoes worn by Bedřich Smetana. The oldest original footwear dates back to the first half of the 17th century. Beside the beautiful shoes the visitors can also get a detailed overwiew about the development of the Baťa company, and city of Zlín.
Cheb – Historical Main Squares in the Czech Republic 2.
Location: Cheb, Karlovy Vary Region
When you walk through the medieval square in Cheb, your eyes will
immediately fall on the city's symbol – Špalíček. This
picturesque group of eleven medieval merchants’ houses grew up here
as early as the 13th century. Several other beautiful houses with
historical meanings can be found in the main (market) square too. One
of them is Pachelbel House, now the building of the Regional Museum.
In 1634, the Pachebel House was the scene of assassination of
Albrecht von Wallenstein, one of the most controversial figures in
Czech and European history, whose life was frequently interlinked
with the city's history. A merchant, politician and military
commander who became one of the most powerful personalities in Europe
in his time. Because of his betrayal, and his huge power the Habsburg
Emperor ordered the murdering of the Wallenstein.
Other houses of the main square: Grüner House, House at Black Bear, Black Eagle, Golden Lion, Unicorn, the Town Hall, Minetti House, Brentano house and so on. Beautiful buildings, full of the history of Cheb.
City of Cheb is located to the north-west corner of the Czech
Republic, the last Czech city of any size before reaching the German
border. A city full of magnificently preserved historical sites and
its unique medieval atmosphere. Cheb is an interesting mix of German
and Czech culture, and the bilingual, bicultural heritage can be seen
most vividly in the historical main square.
Other houses of the main square: Grüner House, House at Black Bear, Black Eagle, Golden Lion, Unicorn, the Town Hall, Minetti House, Brentano house and so on. Beautiful buildings, full of the history of Cheb.
The Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains National Park - Natural and landscape values of the Czech Republic 2.
Location:
Giant Mountains Region
The Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains are situated in north-eastern Bohemia. The state border with Poland divides the entire mountain range into two different parts. The Czech Krkonoše Mountains over an area of 454 km2, cover about 2/3 of the whole area. Their slopes are more extensive, more broken and milder than those ones in their northern Polish part (with an area of 177 km2).
It
was the first national park established in Bohemia in 1963. The national park now covers an area
of about 370 km2. The Administrations of the National Park seats in
Vrchlabí. The Giant Mountains is an important region of nature,
culture and history too. The peaks of the Giant Mountains tower above
the alpine treeline, and their surface with residues of Pleistocene
glaciation is a unique gallery of wind, frost, and ice shaped
landscape. Visitors find here extraordinarily varied mosaic of
montane spruce, mixed forests, alpine meadows or
sub-Arctic peat bogs.
It is really an island of the Arctic in the middle of Europe. Due to the unique nature richness, landscape beauty, easy accessibility ehe national park is a traditional, most frequently visited tourist area of Europe. Already in the 18th and the 19th century ascents to the Schneekoppe (Sněžka) were common. So many famous artists, like Johann Wolfgang Goethe, or Caspar David Friedrich hiked through the mountains to find inspiration. The Krkonoše mountains are a traditional winter sports centre in Middle Europe too. The largest mountain resorts are located on the Czech side in Pec pod Sněžkou, Špindlerův Mlýn, Harrachov and Janské Lázně.
The Krkonoše (Giant) Mountains are situated in north-eastern Bohemia. The state border with Poland divides the entire mountain range into two different parts. The Czech Krkonoše Mountains over an area of 454 km2, cover about 2/3 of the whole area. Their slopes are more extensive, more broken and milder than those ones in their northern Polish part (with an area of 177 km2).
It
was the first national park established in Bohemia in 1963. The national park now covers an area
of about 370 km2. The Administrations of the National Park seats in
Vrchlabí. The Giant Mountains is an important region of nature,
culture and history too. The peaks of the Giant Mountains tower above
the alpine treeline, and their surface with residues of Pleistocene
glaciation is a unique gallery of wind, frost, and ice shaped
landscape. Visitors find here extraordinarily varied mosaic of
montane spruce, mixed forests, alpine meadows or
sub-Arctic peat bogs. It is really an island of the Arctic in the middle of Europe. Due to the unique nature richness, landscape beauty, easy accessibility ehe national park is a traditional, most frequently visited tourist area of Europe. Already in the 18th and the 19th century ascents to the Schneekoppe (Sněžka) were common. So many famous artists, like Johann Wolfgang Goethe, or Caspar David Friedrich hiked through the mountains to find inspiration. The Krkonoše mountains are a traditional winter sports centre in Middle Europe too. The largest mountain resorts are located on the Czech side in Pec pod Sněžkou, Špindlerův Mlýn, Harrachov and Janské Lázně.
Bernard - Czech Breweries 2.
Location: Humpolec, Highlands Region
In 1991 Stanislav Bernard, Josef Vávra and Rudolf Šmejkal won an
auction for the small privatization of the bankrupt brewery in
Humpolec, established in the 16th century. They have started a long
renovation and development process, including the whole modernization
of the factory. In 2000, the brewery became a part of a join-stock
company. Since July of 2001, Bernard Brewery is in strategic
partnership with the Duvel Moortgat from the Kingdom of Belgium. In
the past twenty years the Bernard Family brewery continued its
growing, and became a well-known premium brand throughout the entire
Czech Republic.
Nowadays the Bernard is well known not only at home,
but also in many countries worldwide. In 2009 more than 200.000 hl of
alcoholic and non-alcoholic beer was produced and exported to 26
countries. The success of their product is based upon the special recipe, the
use of the best ingredients (malt from the own malt house, czech hop,
own yeast culture, own spring water from the Czech-Moravian
highlands), and other special brew making technologies. And the main
difference between the Bernard and other czech beers is the use of
the microfiltration technology, a special procedure for the final
beer treatment that really makes Bernard an exceptional,
unpasteurized beer.
In 1991 Stanislav Bernard, Josef Vávra and Rudolf Šmejkal won an
auction for the small privatization of the bankrupt brewery in
Humpolec, established in the 16th century. They have started a long
renovation and development process, including the whole modernization
of the factory. In 2000, the brewery became a part of a join-stock
company. Since July of 2001, Bernard Brewery is in strategic
partnership with the Duvel Moortgat from the Kingdom of Belgium. In
the past twenty years the Bernard Family brewery continued its
growing, and became a well-known premium brand throughout the entire
Czech Republic. 
The Viewing Tower of the New City Hall – Ostrava – Lookout and TV Towers in the Czech Republic 2.
Location: Ostrava, North Moravia and Silesia
The Viewing Tower of the New City Hall (Vyhlídková věž Nové
radnice), on the Prokešovo square is one of the most popular tourist
attractions of Ostrava. On a clear day, it is possible to see not
only panorama of the entire city, and the Ostrava basin, but the
nearby Beskydy Mountains, Jeseníky Mountains and even neighbouring
Poland.
The Viewing Tower has dominated the Ostrava skyline since it was built at the New City Hall (the largest in the Czech Republic) in 1930. The strict functionalist style of the tower creates, in the opinion of its designers, a noble beacon of concrete, metal and glass. The tower reaches 298 metres above sea level, and 85.60 metres above ground level. The tower is equipped with an illuminated clock face, an elevator, and a lookout deck 72 metres above the ground. The Ostrava City Information Centre, located directly beneath the tower, provides all sorts of information about the city, in several languages. Every half hour, guides are available to the visitors providing information on the city. The lookout deck is open daily.
The Viewing Tower of the New City Hall (Vyhlídková věž Nové
radnice), on the Prokešovo square is one of the most popular tourist
attractions of Ostrava. On a clear day, it is possible to see not
only panorama of the entire city, and the Ostrava basin, but the
nearby Beskydy Mountains, Jeseníky Mountains and even neighbouring
Poland. The Viewing Tower has dominated the Ostrava skyline since it was built at the New City Hall (the largest in the Czech Republic) in 1930. The strict functionalist style of the tower creates, in the opinion of its designers, a noble beacon of concrete, metal and glass. The tower reaches 298 metres above sea level, and 85.60 metres above ground level. The tower is equipped with an illuminated clock face, an elevator, and a lookout deck 72 metres above the ground. The Ostrava City Information Centre, located directly beneath the tower, provides all sorts of information about the city, in several languages. Every half hour, guides are available to the visitors providing information on the city. The lookout deck is open daily.
Pernštejn Castle – Castles, fortresses and chateaux in the Czech Republic 3.
Location: Nedvědice, South Moravia
Pernštejn Castle (the marble castle) is one of
the best preserved castles in the Czech Republic and a must-see on
every tourist’s itinerary. It was founded in the second half of the
13th century. Radical adaptations came in the 15th and 16th century,
when the cultivation of the castle came along with the increasing
influence of House Pernštejn family. They owned the castle till
1596, when they sold it. During the early 17th century, the Counts of
Lichtenstein-Kastelcorn obtained the castle and gave the chapel,
originally Renaissance, a Baroque makeover. During the Thirty Years’
War even the Swedish army couldn't conquer Pernštejn, the strong and
impregnable fortress. At the start of the 18th century the
Stockhammer family took over the castle. They had the Knights’ Hall
redone, adding stucco ornamentation to the walls and ceiling vault
and had an exquisite fresco painted in the chapel. The last owners
before the transfer to the state were the Mitrovský family.
Pernštejn’s medieval appearance is breathtaking, and the visitor can take part in a remarkable journey through various historical periods. Narrow, spiraling staircases, vaulted ceilings, Renaissance chairs and the Baroque chapel. Pernštejn Castle, a place which is full of 100 percent history.
Pernštejn’s medieval appearance is breathtaking, and the visitor can take part in a remarkable journey through various historical periods. Narrow, spiraling staircases, vaulted ceilings, Renaissance chairs and the Baroque chapel. Pernštejn Castle, a place which is full of 100 percent history.
Minor Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Svatý Kopeček - Churches, chapels, monasteries in the Czech Republic 3.
Location: Svatý Kopeček (Olomouc), Central Moravia
The Minor Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or shortly Basilica of Our Lady is located about 5 km from the city of Olomouc, on the top of the Holy Hill, Svatý Kopeček.
In the 17th century a local wine dealer, promised
that when he got rich he would build a church for the Virgin Mary,
who appeared to him in his dreams. One day he found out that this
hill was the place from his dream. In 1629 he started to build a
small chapel with the approval of the Premonstrates Order, the land
owners. The chapel was consecrated four years later. In
1642, the Swedes came to Olomouc and the chapel was destroyed too,
but in a very short time, it was rebuilt. The Holy Hill was such a
popular place among the local people, that the Church decided to
build a larger new church using the plans of Giovanni Pietro
Tencalla. The new building was consecrated in 1679 by
Olomouc bishop Karel II of Lichtenstein. In 1748 Queen Mary Theresa
visited the pilgrimage place, 36 years later Kopeček got the
privileges of the "Small basilica". During the rule of King
Joseph II. the Order was abolished, but in the 19th
century the church was returned to the monks (nuns). After the World War II.
the Basilica was confiscated by the state, and the order was
abolished again, but in 1990 the premonstrates got back the church
and they are the owner of the place now.
The Baroque pilgrimage church with a two-tower frontage is a distinctive landmark of the landscape around Olomouc. Adjoining the church building, there are side wings with an attic carrying statues of 12 apostles and two saints - Saint Sebastian.and Saint Roch. Behind the church, there are a cloister and the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. The ceiling of the single-naved interior is vaulted over by a massive dome. The nave is flanked by side chapels. Numerous local and foreign painters, sculptors and plasterers (Jan Kryštof Handke, Johann Spillenberg, Joseph Winterhalter) participated in the interior decoration of the church. This monumental church was promoted by Pope John Paul II. to Minor Basilica in May 1995, when he visited the church.
The Minor Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or shortly Basilica of Our Lady is located about 5 km from the city of Olomouc, on the top of the Holy Hill, Svatý Kopeček.
The Baroque pilgrimage church with a two-tower frontage is a distinctive landmark of the landscape around Olomouc. Adjoining the church building, there are side wings with an attic carrying statues of 12 apostles and two saints - Saint Sebastian.and Saint Roch. Behind the church, there are a cloister and the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. The ceiling of the single-naved interior is vaulted over by a massive dome. The nave is flanked by side chapels. Numerous local and foreign painters, sculptors and plasterers (Jan Kryštof Handke, Johann Spillenberg, Joseph Winterhalter) participated in the interior decoration of the church. This monumental church was promoted by Pope John Paul II. to Minor Basilica in May 1995, when he visited the church.
Emauss Monastery – Churches, chapels, monasteries in the Czech Republic 2.
Location: Prague
The Emauss Monastery (Monastery Na Slovanech) was founded in the
mid of the 14th century by King Charles IV for the Slavic
Benedictines, who performed religious services in Old Church Slavonic
language. In 1371, a church was added to the monastery complex. It
became soon the centre of education and art. John Hus, the famous
czech priest and Jerome of Prague also belonged to the most famous
students of the monastery. In 1611 the building was plundered.
Finally it revived in the second half of the 17th century, when it
underwent a baroque reconstruction led by Spanish Benedictines. That
time the famous astronomist Johaness Kepler also lived among the
walls of the monastery. In the second half of the 19th century, the
monastery was rebuilt by the Beuron Benedictines (from south
Germany), who created a specific artistic style, the Art of Beuron.
At the end of the Word War II, the Emauss Monastery was seriously damaged during the bombing of Prague in 1945, but the complex was finally revived between 1966 and 1969. It later became the seat of the Czechoslovakian Academy of Science. In 1990, it was returned to the Benedictines and both the monastery and the church were reconstructed for the next twenty years. The roof of the curch was rebuilt in a very modern style. The building now is a national cultural monument.
The Emauss Monastery (Monastery Na Slovanech) was founded in the
mid of the 14th century by King Charles IV for the Slavic
Benedictines, who performed religious services in Old Church Slavonic
language. In 1371, a church was added to the monastery complex. It
became soon the centre of education and art. John Hus, the famous
czech priest and Jerome of Prague also belonged to the most famous
students of the monastery. In 1611 the building was plundered.
Finally it revived in the second half of the 17th century, when it
underwent a baroque reconstruction led by Spanish Benedictines. That
time the famous astronomist Johaness Kepler also lived among the
walls of the monastery. In the second half of the 19th century, the
monastery was rebuilt by the Beuron Benedictines (from south
Germany), who created a specific artistic style, the Art of Beuron.At the end of the Word War II, the Emauss Monastery was seriously damaged during the bombing of Prague in 1945, but the complex was finally revived between 1966 and 1969. It later became the seat of the Czechoslovakian Academy of Science. In 1990, it was returned to the Benedictines and both the monastery and the church were reconstructed for the next twenty years. The roof of the curch was rebuilt in a very modern style. The building now is a national cultural monument.
Bohemian Switzerland National Park – Natural and landscape values of the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Ústi nad Labem Region
The Bohemian Switzerland National Park (Národní park České Švýcarsko), which was established on 1st January 2000 and covers an area of nearly 80km2, is the youngest one of the four national parks in the Czech Republic. On its northern side borders itis linked to the Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany.
The National Park is famous of the unique sandstone rock towns
with the occurance of rare plant and animal species and islands of
well-preserved (pine, herb-rich beech) woods. Natural values of the
National Park have also been acknowledged within the European Union
by including it in the prestigious list of European conservation
areas called Natura 2000. The park also represents beautiful samples
from the local folk architecture (half-timbered houses etc.) in the
village of Mezná.
The most widely known rock formation of the Bohemian Switzerland
National Park is the Pravčická Brána, the largest natural stone
bridge on our continent and symbol of the entire area. The span of
the arch at the bottom is 26.5 m, the height of the opening is 16 m,
width 7-8 m, minimum thickness 3 m, and the surface area of the
bridge is 21 m above its base.
The Bohemian Switzerland National Park (Národní park České Švýcarsko), which was established on 1st January 2000 and covers an area of nearly 80km2, is the youngest one of the four national parks in the Czech Republic. On its northern side borders itis linked to the Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany.
Domažlice – Historical main squares in the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Domažlice, West Bohemia
The main square of Domažlice,
capital of the so-called Chodsko border region, close to Germany, is
renowned for its leaning tower, which is today a part of the dean´s
Church of The Virgin Mary. (the originally Gothic church was rebuilt
in the Baroque style). Its tower (open to the public) has a deviation
of 60 cm from its vertical axis. The other main historical values
of this square are the historic houses. These houses with arcades in
Domažlice are the only houses of this type to be preserved in the
region of West Bohemia and nearby Bavaria.
Beside these monuments the visitor can see other
sights in the main square too. The eastern end of the square is
closed by the Dolejší brána, this beautiful Gate Tower, which was
a part of the former fortification of the city in the 14th
century. It was reconstructed in 1905. Another ecclesiastical
building is the Augustinian monastery and church. The town-hall from
1891-1893 is also situated in the square. The fountain in front of
the town-hall was constructed in 2005 as an approximate replica of
the original.
Museum of Cats - Lnáře – Museums and galleries in the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Lnáře, South Bohemia
In 2005 a very rare, but kind museum was founded
in the castle of Lnáře: Museum of cats. It's the only museum of its
kind in the Czech Republic, but you may not find another one in
Europe too. The founder of this strange museum is Alena Vaníčková,
the member of the family who owned the castle.
In the museum visitors find a lot of interesting things about the cats, and the history of their coexistence with humans about for four thousand years. We can see exhibition about the ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt where the cat was worshiped as a goddess. In the museum a lot of statues, cat figures like ceramics, porcelain, wooden cats, a copy of a cat mummy from Thebes, and so many other interesting can be seen. If you do have any question about the history of cats, just visit this Museum! The museum is open from May to September, mainly on weekends and holidays from 10 to 16 o'clock.
In 2005 a very rare, but kind museum was founded
in the castle of Lnáře: Museum of cats. It's the only museum of its
kind in the Czech Republic, but you may not find another one in
Europe too. The founder of this strange museum is Alena Vaníčková,
the member of the family who owned the castle.In the museum visitors find a lot of interesting things about the cats, and the history of their coexistence with humans about for four thousand years. We can see exhibition about the ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt where the cat was worshiped as a goddess. In the museum a lot of statues, cat figures like ceramics, porcelain, wooden cats, a copy of a cat mummy from Thebes, and so many other interesting can be seen. If you do have any question about the history of cats, just visit this Museum! The museum is open from May to September, mainly on weekends and holidays from 10 to 16 o'clock.
Eggenberg - Czech Breweries 1.
Location: Český Krumlov, South Bohemia
The tradition of brewing beer in Český Krumlov (one of the most
beautiful czech town) dates right back to the origins of the town.
Under the reign of the last of the Rosenbergs, in 1560, a new brewery
was built in the castle grounds and a year later, regent Jakub Krčín
established a source of very high quality water, which the
brewery still uses today. In 1662 the entire Český Krumlov estate, together with the
brewery, was acquired by the Eggenbergs. The rising demand for beer
was the reason why the former seat of the mother
of Vilém and Petr Vok of Rosenberg), the former
armoury building, was converted in 1625–30 into what is now the brewery.
In 1945, the brewery came under state ownership and together with
Budějovický Budvar was incorporated into the national concern
Jihočeské pivovary (South Bohemian Breweries). After privatisation
in 1991, new, modern technology was installed and the brewing
capacity increased, and the Eggenberg brand quickly became well known
and popular again. Visitors can take a tour iin the brewery (every
day from 11.00 a.m) to sample some of the beer produced here.
The tradition of brewing beer in Český Krumlov (one of the most
beautiful czech town) dates right back to the origins of the town.
Under the reign of the last of the Rosenbergs, in 1560, a new brewery
was built in the castle grounds and a year later, regent Jakub Krčín
established a source of very high quality water, which the
brewery still uses today. In 1662 the entire Český Krumlov estate, together with the
brewery, was acquired by the Eggenbergs. The rising demand for beer
was the reason why the former seat of the mother
of Vilém and Petr Vok of Rosenberg), the former
armoury building, was converted in 1625–30 into what is now the brewery.
Tábor hill - Lookout and TV towers in the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Tábor hill, Lomnice nad Popelkou, Bohemian Paradise
Only a few kilometers from Lomnice nad Popelkou,
on the forest covered hill of Tábor a beautiful lookout
tower is waiting for the tourist.
The original lookout tower was built in 1888. It was a simple wooden structure, it is believed that the designers drew inspiration from the lookout tower near Vienna, dedicated to Empress Elizabeth.
In 1911, a brick tower was completed on the top of Tábor and it was considered one of the most beautiful towers in Bohemia. The tower is 35 meters high and the gallery at the height of 26 m is accessible through the staircase consisting of 145 steps.
Nowadays the Tábor hill with the wonderful panorama from the tower (from where you can see one quarter of Bohemia and count as many as 50 church spires and 12 lookout towers), is a popular destination for the tourists.
Only a few kilometers from Lomnice nad Popelkou,
on the forest covered hill of Tábor a beautiful lookout
tower is waiting for the tourist.The original lookout tower was built in 1888. It was a simple wooden structure, it is believed that the designers drew inspiration from the lookout tower near Vienna, dedicated to Empress Elizabeth.
In 1911, a brick tower was completed on the top of Tábor and it was considered one of the most beautiful towers in Bohemia. The tower is 35 meters high and the gallery at the height of 26 m is accessible through the staircase consisting of 145 steps.
Nowadays the Tábor hill with the wonderful panorama from the tower (from where you can see one quarter of Bohemia and count as many as 50 church spires and 12 lookout towers), is a popular destination for the tourists.
Chateau Duchcov - Castles, fortresses and chateaux in the Czech Republic 2.
Location: Duchcov, Ústi nad Labem Region
This chateau was originally built in Renaissance style at the end
of the 15th century. In 1642, the famous Valdštejn
(Wallenstein) family acquired it and the building was reconstructed
in Baroque style. At the turn of the 18th and 19th
century classic adaptations were carried out. In 1921 the Valdštejn
family sold the chateau to the state and the premises were turned
into an office. The building were later reconstructed in 1961.
The famous Italian adventurer, Giacomo Casanova spent his last years in Duchcov (old german name: Dux) and worked in the library of the chateau, and wrote his memoirs. When Casanova died, he was buried at the city cemetery, but the exact place of his grave was forgotten over the years and remains unknown today. If you go to Duchcov, you can visit an exhibition about his life in the chateau, and you can also see a beautiful collection of historical furnitures and Baroque sculptures here.
This chateau was originally built in Renaissance style at the end
of the 15th century. In 1642, the famous Valdštejn
(Wallenstein) family acquired it and the building was reconstructed
in Baroque style. At the turn of the 18th and 19th
century classic adaptations were carried out. In 1921 the Valdštejn
family sold the chateau to the state and the premises were turned
into an office. The building were later reconstructed in 1961.
The famous Italian adventurer, Giacomo Casanova spent his last years in Duchcov (old german name: Dux) and worked in the library of the chateau, and wrote his memoirs. When Casanova died, he was buried at the city cemetery, but the exact place of his grave was forgotten over the years and remains unknown today. If you go to Duchcov, you can visit an exhibition about his life in the chateau, and you can also see a beautiful collection of historical furnitures and Baroque sculptures here.
Saint Barbara Church - Churches, chapels, monasteries in the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Kutná Hora, Central Czech Region
The Saint Barbara Church, often called Cathedral is beautiful and unique work of High and late Gothic architecture. It is located in the medieval czech silver mine town, Kutná Hora, so it is not a miracle that the Church was consecrated to St. Barbara, patron saint of miners.
The three-tent roof and intricate flying buttresses make it one of the most significant monument not only the town, but whole Czech Republic. Its interior, with imageries depicting scenes from Kutná Hora's mining life is stunning and complex.
The construction of the Church was started in 1388 by Peter Parler`s smelt house. Construction work was interrupted several times and the monumental cathedral was finally completed after more than 500 years of building, in 1905 with a Neo-Gothic restoration.
The Church, together with the historical centre of Kutná Hora (including the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec) is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
The Saint Barbara Church, often called Cathedral is beautiful and unique work of High and late Gothic architecture. It is located in the medieval czech silver mine town, Kutná Hora, so it is not a miracle that the Church was consecrated to St. Barbara, patron saint of miners.The three-tent roof and intricate flying buttresses make it one of the most significant monument not only the town, but whole Czech Republic. Its interior, with imageries depicting scenes from Kutná Hora's mining life is stunning and complex.
The construction of the Church was started in 1388 by Peter Parler`s smelt house. Construction work was interrupted several times and the monumental cathedral was finally completed after more than 500 years of building, in 1905 with a Neo-Gothic restoration.
The Church, together with the historical centre of Kutná Hora (including the Cathedral of Our Lady at Sedlec) is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
Prague Castle - Castles, fortresses and chateaux in the Czech Republic 1.
Location: Prague
The Prague Castle, an ancient symbol of the Czech lands, is the most significant Czech monument and one of the most important cultural institutions in the Czech Republic.
The Prague Castle was founded in around 880 by Prince
Bořivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty (Přemyslovci). It is
the largest coherent castle complex in the world, with an
area of almost 70,000 m². A UNESCO World Heritage site, it consists of
a large-scale composition of palaces and ecclesiastical
buildings of various architectural styles, from Roman-style buildings
from the 10th century through Gothic modifications
in the 14th century.
The famous Slovenian architect Josip Plečnik was responsible for extensive renovations in the time of the First Republic (1918-1938). Since the Velvet Revolution, the Prague Castle has undergone significant and ongoing repairs and reconstructions.
The Prague Castle, an ancient symbol of the Czech lands, is the most significant Czech monument and one of the most important cultural institutions in the Czech Republic.
The famous Slovenian architect Josip Plečnik was responsible for extensive renovations in the time of the First Republic (1918-1938). Since the Velvet Revolution, the Prague Castle has undergone significant and ongoing repairs and reconstructions.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)