Visiting Czech Republic

The lands of the Czech Republic have long been considered the crossroads of European cultures and with good reason. Between the cities, quaint villages, and spa towns with warm, mineral water, this country is inspirational to people all around the globe. Even with such a strong connection, the Czech Republic is actually one of the youngest of all European families, being created in 1993 when the Czechoslovak Federal Republic was divided into the independent states of Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic covers just 30,450 miles, ranking it among the smallest of countries. However, do not be fooled by the size since the beauty is magnificent and the culture rich and diverse. Because of all the country has to offer, it is known as a prime cultural destination. When visiting this part of the world, you will discover 14 separate tourists regions, each with mesmerizing castles, châteaux’s, and small, charming towns.


Each of these tourist regions are a part of a country that depends heavily on tourism. As an example, one such region offers wonderful trails for people who enjoy cycling and an amazing wine country. As you will discover in this article, the Czech Republic has something to offer everyone who visits, regardless of age. We will provide you with some specific information on the cities, spa towns, and activities just waiting to be explored.

When most people think of the Czech Republic, they think of Prague and while that is a wonderful city, keep in mind there are many more just as exciting. The common denominator among all the towns is the cleanliness and well maintained the monuments are. We will outline just a few, starting with the town of Kromenz, which in 1777 was situated at the foot of the Chirby Hills in Central Moravia. However, since that time, Kromenz has become the seat of bishops for Olomouc. This chateau features beautiful gardens and a castle gallery where you can enjoy an impressive collection of European art.

Next is the town of Kutna Hora, which was rich with silver mines in the Middle Ages. In fact, because of these mines, the Czech Crown lands became quite famous and Kutna Hora, the richest and most powerful of all towns. Then at the end of the 14th century and beginning of the 15th century, Kutna Hora became the seat of King Vaclay IV. The churches in Kutna Hora include St. Barbara’s Cathedral built in 1388 and St. James’ Church in 1330, both great reminders of the earlier years.

Another great city is actually an extensive Baroque complex called the Lednice Valtice area, which was originally built for the Liechtenstein family by famed architects. Spread between numbers of smaller towns, Lednice Valtice is nestled just southeast of Brno. There, you will enjoy sightseeing among the beautiful gardens and structures, chateau buildings, and ponds and woods. The chateau itself is surrounded by a magnificent natural park filled with greenhouses of tropical plants and flowers, along with rare trees.


Another city includes Cesky Krumlov, which is picturesque and the previous home of the Lords of Rozmberk from 1302 to 1602, as seen from the picture to the right. Then, there is the city of Holasovice, a 13th century village that features 22 farmhouses, each with painted Baroque gables and a beautiful, central pond, and Litomysl, a small town built during the mediaeval Renaissance. Of course, there is Prague, the capital’s historical center that stands more than 10 centuries old, among others.

Other things to do and see while in the Czech Republic include taking time to visit the national parks and biosphere reserves. Because this country is so magnificent with its mountains and dense forests, you will still find many areas completely untouched and tranquil. These parks and reserves are home to many great animals to include the wildcat, lynx, bustard, grouse, and the wolf. The Czech Republic also features incredible caves that are all connected by massive underground rivers. These huge caverns feature stalagmites and stalactites, with extensive halls and passageways that provide a glimpse into prehistoric times.

Then, you might spend some time in any number of open-air museums, which show you how the original settlers lived. Here, you can walk among typical houses furnished with traditional furniture. Finally, during various times of the year, you can enjoy a number of colorful festivals. Keep in mind that these are just a few of the wonderful opportunities just waiting to be experienced in the Czech Republic, a country that is truly worth seeing.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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