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 here are 7 quirky stuff you in all probability don’t know in regards to the Czech Republic.
1. Prague Citadel is the most important fort on this planet
Constructed within the ninth century, Prague Citadel is the most important fort advanced on this planet, with well-known websites together with the Previous 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 could be discovered within the district of Mala Strana in Prague. It’s been dubbed previously because the ‘crying wall’ and was utilized by protesters of the day to color political messages.
Over the previous a number of a long time, folks have used this wall to engrave, write and draw symbols of peace alongside lyrics from The Beatles’ many well-liked songs. Though the wall was typically painted over, Lennon fanatics continued their messaging, ultimately resulting in the wall changing into an ongoing image of free speech.
At the moment, the wall continues to symbolise John Lennon’s philosophy of peace and anti-violence and attracts hundreds of holiday makers yearly. John Lennon is remembered right here with a big mirror and portrait.
3. Prague has over 500 spires and many alternative types of structure
Nicknamed ‘town of 100 spires,’ Prague’s skyline is extremely distinctive because of the 500-plus spires that dot its rooftops. Nevertheless, not all are comparable. It is because, like the remainder of the nation, many alternative architectural types have been used all through the ages right here.
From Gothic and Baroque to Romanesque, Renaissance and Rococo to newer types like Modernism and Deconstructivism, Prague has fortunately retained its many centuries of favor.
Spend time wandering the streets, however don’t overlook to search for every now and then.
4. The Czechs eat essentially the most beer on this planet
In case you thought your nation was the world’s high beer drinker, the Czechs have you ever beat. Consuming roughly 160 litres yearly per capita, the Czechs are the primary shopper of beer on this planet – and have been for the previous few centuries!
And you’ll wager they’ve mastered the artwork of the right 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, often called a hospoda, for his or her most well-known brew, a Pilsner. Chances are you’ll must order a ‘pivo’ (beer in Czech), or you might not, with some conventional pubs serving beer to tables with out the necessity to order. Additionally, some conventional pubs can also solely serve one kind of beer, so you might wish to verify when you’re after one thing particular!
5. The Czech Republic retains many relics of the Center Ages.
Irrespective of when you’re within the coronary heart of its capital or out within the huge 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 most 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, you might even really feel transported again in time as you wander via the primary sq. and as much as the fort. Constructed within the thirteenth century, Cesky Krumlov has retained its medieval attraction for over 5 centuries. With the imposing UNESCO Heritage Citadel Advanced, 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 severely spectacular Astronomical clock
Prague’s astronomical clock, often called Prague Orloj, was put in in 1410, making it the oldest on this planet. It’s a formidable instrument to behold. Situated on the Previous 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 originally of a brand new hour. The present includes figures representing the 12 Apostles transferring out and in of the home windows earlier than the brand new hour is rung. Whilst you’re there, see when you 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 Jap Europe, however Prague is extra west than Vienna, which is in Central Europe.
Though which will sound complicated, it does make it straightforward so as to add on a visit via the Czech Republic or to make it half of a bigger central Europe journey!
Try our Czech Republic journeys.
