- Land of Castles and Châteaux
With more than 2,000 castles and châteaux scattered across its regions, the Czech Republic is often said to have the highest density of castles in Europe. From the grand Prague Castle to hidden gems in the countryside, there’s always a new medieval landmark to discover. - Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia
Although unified under one nation, the Czech Republic comprises three historic lands—Bohemia, Moravia, and part of Silesia—each with its own cultural and culinary traditions. This regional diversity shapes the country’s rich identity. - Home of World-Famous Beer
The Czech Republic consistently tops global charts for beer consumption per capita. Iconic brews like Pilsner Urquell (from Plzeň) and Budweiser Budvar (from České Budějovice) pioneered beer styles that influenced breweries worldwide. - Prague: City of a Hundred Spires
The nation’s capital boasts a skyline filled with historic towers and church spires, earning it the nickname “City of a Hundred Spires.” With its well-preserved Old Town, medieval Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock (built in 1410), Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. - Karel Čapek and the Word “Robot”
The term “robot” was first introduced by Czech writer Karel Čapek in his 1920 play R.U.R. (Rossum’s Universal Robots). It derives from the Czech word “robota,” meaning forced labor or drudgery, forever changing the sci-fi lexicon. - Land of Spa Towns
Renowned for therapeutic mineral waters, Czech spa towns like Karlovy Vary, Mariánské Lázně, and Františkovy Lázně have attracted visitors—including royalty and celebrities—for centuries. Indulging in spa treatments and sipping from thermal springs is a time-honored tradition. - The Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church)
Near the town of Kutná Hora lies a small chapel famously adorned with the bones of an estimated 40,000 to 70,000 people. The bone chandeliers, altars, and decorations in the Sedlec Ossuary offer a stark yet fascinating glimpse into medieval attitudes toward life and death. - Velvet Revolution and Modern Democracy
In 1989, peaceful protests known as the Velvet Revolution ended decades of communist rule in Czechoslovakia. The subsequent peaceful split of Czechoslovakia in 1993 led to the modern-day Czech Republic and Slovakia—often referred to as the “Velvet Divorce.” - Český Krumlov: A Fairy-Tale Town
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Český Krumlov enchants visitors with its winding river, picturesque bridges, and a remarkable castle complex towering over cobblestone streets. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring beyond Prague. - Franz Kafka’s Legacy
Literary icon Franz Kafka was born in Prague, and his works (like The Metamorphosis and The Trial) have become staples of modern literature worldwide. Visitors can explore the Kafka Museum in Prague’s Lesser Town to learn more about his life and writing. - Charles University: A Medieval Institution
Founded in 1348 by Emperor Charles IV, Charles University in Prague is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It has nurtured generations of scholars, scientists, and political figures, and remains a prestigious seat of learning today. - From Czech Republic to Czechia
In 2016, the Czech government officially approved the short-form name “Czechia” for international use, though “Czech Republic” is still commonly used. The move was aimed at creating a concise and more memorable identity, similar to France or Slovakia.
From the captivating architecture of Prague and the fairy-tale charm of Český Krumlov to the nation’s deep-rooted beer culture and inventive literary contributions, the Czech Republic (Czechia) brims with history, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Na zdraví!
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