The Czech Republic could also be smaller than its European neighbours, however don’t let that idiot you. There’s a medieval journey, a mighty fort and a much-loved pub round each nook.
Initially printed October 2023
Listed below are 7 quirky belongings you in all probability don’t know in regards to the Czech Republic.
1. Prague Citadel is the most important fort on the earth
Constructed within the ninth century, Prague Citadel is the most important fort complicated on the earth, with well-known websites together with the Outdated Royal Palace, Saint George’s Basilica, the Golden Lane, the Royal Backyard and the Saint Vitus Cathedral.
These well-known halls have hosted kings, queens, presidents, emperors and extra over their lengthy historical past, which spans over a thousand years. The crown jewels, alongside many essential nationwide relics, are housed in these halls, a few of that are open for public admission.
2. There’s a Wall of Lennon
The ever-changing wall of graffiti named after John Lennon will be discovered within the district of Mala Strana in Prague. It’s been dubbed up to now because the ‘crying wall’ and was utilized by protesters of the day to color political messages.
Over the previous a number of many years, individuals have used this wall to engrave, write and draw symbols of peace alongside lyrics from The Beatles’ many fashionable songs. Though the wall was typically painted over, Lennon lovers continued their messaging, finally resulting in the wall changing into an ongoing image of free speech.
Right now, the wall continues to symbolise John Lennon’s philosophy of peace and anti-violence and attracts hundreds of tourists yearly. John Lennon is remembered right here with a big mirror and portrait.
3. Prague has over 500 spires and many alternative kinds of structure
Nicknamed ‘the town of 100 spires,’ Prague’s skyline is extremely distinctive because of the 500-plus spires that dot its rooftops. Nevertheless, not all are related. It is because, like the remainder of the nation, many alternative architectural kinds have been used all through the ages right here.
From Gothic and Baroque to Romanesque, Renaissance and Rococo to newer kinds like Modernism and Deconstructivism, Prague has fortunately retained its many centuries of fashion.
Spend time wandering the streets, however don’t overlook to lookup occasionally.
4. The Czechs devour essentially the most beer on the earth
When you thought your nation was the world’s prime beer drinker, the Czechs have you ever beat. Consuming roughly 160 litres yearly per capita, the Czechs are the primary client of beer on the earth – and have been for the previous couple of centuries!
And you’ll guess they’ve mastered the artwork of the proper pint with recordings exhibiting beer being brewed right here since 993 AD – and in a monastery of all locations.
Stroll into one in all their many conventional pubs, generally known as a hospoda, for his or her most well-known brew, a Pilsner. You might must order a ‘pivo’ (beer in Czech), or it’s possible you’ll not, with some conventional pubs serving beer to tables with out the necessity to order. Additionally, some conventional pubs can also solely serve one sort of beer, so it’s possible you’ll need to examine for those who’re after one thing particular!
5. The Czech Republic retains many relics of the Center Ages.
Irrespective of for those who’re within the coronary heart of its capital or out within the large inexperienced valleys of the countryside, you’ll typically come head to head with remnants from the Center Ages.
Prague is the one main metropolis in Europe that wasn’t extensively bombed in WWII. For that reason, you will see that lots of the buildings within the historic centre standing as initially constructed, a few of which date again to the Center Ages.
When visiting Cesky Krumlov, a southern Bohemian city, it’s possible you’ll even really feel transported again in time as you wander by way of the primary sq. and as much as the fort. Constructed within the thirteenth century, Cesky Krumlov has retained its medieval appeal for over 5 centuries. With the imposing UNESCO Heritage Citadel Complicated, Baroque Theatre and Church of St. Vitus as its most visited websites, you’ll get an actual really feel for medieval life right here.
6. Prague has a critically spectacular Astronomical clock
Prague’s astronomical clock, generally known as Prague Orloj, was put in in 1410, making it the oldest on the earth. It’s a powerful instrument to behold. Positioned on the Outdated City Corridor Tower, this intricate and vibrant clock has lengthy been an attraction for European guests.
The most important purpose for its reputation is the hourly 45-second sequence, which happens at the start of a brand new hour. The present entails figures representing the 12 Apostles transferring out and in of the home windows earlier than the brand new hour is rung. When you’re there, see for those who can spot your star signal on the clock face.
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7. It’s each east and west
The Czech Republic is taken into account a part of Japanese Europe, however Prague is extra west than Vienna, which is in Central Europe.
Though that will sound complicated, it does make it simple so as to add on a visit by way of the Czech Republic or to make it half of a bigger central Europe journey!
Take a look at our Czech Republic journeys.
