\
Czechia

Czechia

Continent

Europe

Best States to Visit

  • Central Bohemian
  • Moravian-Silesian
  • South Moravian
  • Prague
  • South Bohemian

Best Cities to Visit

  • Říčany
  • Prague
  • Hustopeče
  • Černošice
  • Brandýs nad Labem-Stará Boleslav

Size

78,866 KM2

Population

10,707,839

GDP

$432,346,000,000

Spending Budget

$270 - $1,607

Famous For

  • The Czech Republic ranks as the seventh safest country to live in the world.
  • The country’s expat community is huge.
  • It has the most castles in Europe.
  • The Czech Republic is home to the largest ancient castle in the world.
  • The Elbe River rises in the country.
  • The Czech Republic’s highest point of elevation is Sněžka.
  • Prague’s Old Town is home to third-oldest astronomical clock in the world.

Best Time to Visit

  • January
  • April
  • May
  • September
  • October

History

Archaeologists have found evidence of prehistoric human settlements in the area, dating back to the Paleolithic era. In the classical era, as a result of the 3rd century BC Celtic migrations, Bohemia became associated with the Boii. The Boii founded an oppidum near the site of modern Prague. Later in the 1st century, the Germanic tribes of the Marcomanni and Quadi settled there. Slavs from the Black Sea–Carpathian region settled in the area (their migration was pushed by an invasion of peoples from Siberia and Eastern Europe into their area:Huns, Avars, Bulgars and Magyars).[44] In the sixth century, the Huns had moved westwards into Bohemia, Moravia, and some of present-day Austria and Germany. During the 7th century, the Frankish merchant Samo, supporting the Slavs fighting against nearby settled Avars, became the ruler of the first documented Slavic state in Central Europe, Samo's Empire. The principality of Great Moravia, controlled by Moymir dynasty, arose in the 8th century. It reached its zenith in the 9th (during the reign of Svatopluk I of Moravia), holding off the influence of the Franks. Great Moravia was Christianized, with a role being played by the Byzantine mission of Cyril and Methodius. They codified the Old Church Slavonic language, the first literary and liturgical language of the Slavs, and the Glagolitic alphabet.

Present Day

In November 1989, Czechoslovakia returned to a liberal democracy through the Velvet Revolution. However, Slovak national aspirations strengthened (Hyphen War) and on 1 January 1993, the country peacefully split into the independent countries of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Both countries went through economic reforms and privatisations, with the intention of creating a market economy. This process was largely successful; in 2006 the Czech Republic was recognized by the World Bank as a "developed country", and in 2009 the Human Development Index ranked it as a nation of "Very High Human Development". From 1991, the Czech Republic, originally as part of Czechoslovakia and since 1993 in its own right, has been a member of the Visegrád Group and from 1995, the OECD. The Czech Republic joined NATO on 12 March 1999 and the European Union on 1 May 2004. On 21 December 2007 the Czech Republic joined the Schengen Area. Until 2017, either the Czech Social Democratic Party or the Civic Democratic Party led the governments of the Czech Republic. In October 2017, populist movement ANO 2011, led by the country's second-richest man, Andrej Babiš, won the elections with three times more votes than its closest rival, the centre-right Civic Democrats. In December 2017, Czech President Miloš Zeman appointed Andrej Babiš as the new Prime Minister.

Future

The economy of the Czech Republic is a developed export-oriented social market economy based in services, manufacturing, and innovation, that maintains a high-income welfare state and the European social model. The Czech Republic participates in the European Single Market as a member of the European Union, and is therefore a part of the economy of the European Union, but uses its own currency, the Czech koruna, instead of the euro. It is a member of the OECD. The Czech Republic ranks 13th in inequality-adjusted human development and 14th in World Bank Human Capital Index ahead of countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom or France. It was described by The Guardian as "one of Europe’s most flourishing economies". The industry sector accounts for 37.5% of the economy, while services for 60% and agriculture for 2.5%. The principal industries are high tech engineering, electronics and machine-building, steel production, transportation equipment (automotive, rail and aerospace industry), chemicals, advanced materials and pharmaceuticals. The major services are research and development, ICT and software development, nanotechnology and life sciences among others. Its main agricultural products are cereals, vegetable oils and hops. As of 2018, the Czech GDP per capita at purchasing power parity is $37,370 and $22,850 at nominal value. As of June 2019, the unemployment rate in the Czech Republic was the lowest in the EU at 1.9%, and the poverty rate is the second lowest of OECD members only behind Denmark. Czech Republic ranks 24th in both the Index of Economic Freedom (ranked behind Norway) and the Global Innovation Index (ranked behind Australia), 32nd in the Global Competitiveness Report, 41st in the ease of doing business index and 25th in the Global Enabling Trade Report (ranked behind Canada). The largest trading partner for both export and import is Germany and other members of the EU in general. The Czech Republic has a highly diverse economy that ranks 9th in the 2017 Economic Complexity Index.
Must Visit Places ------------

Prague Castle

For most travelers, the focal point of a visit to the Czech Republic is Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). It's on all Prague itineraries. Located in the city's Hradcany neighborhood and dating from the late 10th century, Prague Castle has been central to Eastern European history for centuries, and has been home to Holy Roman Emperors, the Habsburgs, Bohemian kings and, more recently, the Czech Republic's President. Over the course of its 1,000-year history, the castle - the largest in the world in terms of area - has undergone many dramatic changes in architectural style, evidence of which can be seen in the numerous buildings constructed within its walls through the centuries. Highlights of the castle include beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George's Basilica, the Powder Tower, and the Golden Lane with its medieval workshops. Of particular note is the Old Royal Palace with its magnificent Vladislav Hall, so big it was used to host knightly jousting tournaments, as well as the adjoining 16th-century Royal Garden with its spectacular Singing Fountain. English language guided tours and audio-guides are available.

Prague's Charles Bridge

It's impossible to visit Prague without taking the time to traverse the city's most important river crossing, the spectacular Charles Bridge (Karluv Most). This famous structure spanning the River Vltava was built in 1357 and has many unique points of interest along its 520-meter span, including numerous fine statues. Perhaps the most famous are those of the bridge's namesake, Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, as well as the 1683 statue of John of Nepomuk, which honors the country's most revered saint who, ironically, was deliberately drowned in the Vltava. The bridge is extremely popular with tourists and photographers for its fine views. Some of the best views are actually captured during off-peak hours, at dawn and at dusk, making for a much less crowded visit.

St. Vitus Cathedral

Part of the Prague Castle complex, St. Vitus Cathedral is best known as the home of the Bohemian Coronation Jewels, as well as the tomb of the Czech people's most revered saint, St. Wenceslas. The cathedral has a long history. Dating back to the year 925, when Prince Wenceslas built a chapel on the site, the building grew along with Prague's importance, and it soon became a basilica after the Prague bishopric was established. There was another period of expansion between 1344 and 1419 when it began its transformation into a Gothic cathedral, and the St. Wenceslas Chapel was built. Construction and repairs resumed in the late 18th century, adding neo-Gothic elements. Highlights of a visit include seeing the bronze doors adorned with reliefs of the cathedral's history, ornate stained glass windows in the chapels, and the Royal Mausoleum. Tourists should be sure to visit St. Wenceslas Chapel to admire the murals, which are original 14th-century depictions of the stations of the cross, as well as scenes depicting the life of St. Wenceslas.

Prague's Old Town Square

Ceský Krumlov Castle

Dominating the old town after which it's named, Ceský Krumlov Castle is remarkably well preserved given its age. Dating from the 13th century, much of what stands today in this UNESCO World Heritage Site stems from the 17th century, including the Rosenberg Ballroom and the Renaissance Hall, the Royal Apartments, and the Chapel of St. George. Also worth seeing is the castle's old Baroque theater. Built in 1682, it's still used for special performances. Other highlights include historic collections of paintings and tapestries, along with fine décor and period furniture. The Ceský Krumlov Castle complex comprises 40 buildings, including fine old palaces, castle courts, and gardens. Tourists could easily spend several days wandering the grounds, although those who want to see the highlights may enjoy one of the English language guided tours that are available.

Brno's Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

High above the old city of Brno is the beautiful Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, one of the Czech Republic's most important national monuments. The site of the cathedral first held an 11th-century Romanesque chapel that was later expanded to include a crypt and a basilica, the remains of which can still be seen. Eventually rebuilt as a Gothic cathedral during the 18th century, the interior is a Baroque masterpiece designed by architect Moric Grimm. Among its most remarkable features are the Kapistránka pulpit and the crypt, which is home to not only tombs but the remnants of Brno's original city walls. Added in the early 20th century, the building's two 84-meter-high towers are home to the church bell that rings each day at 11am, instead of noon. This tradition has been carried on to remember the city's successful attempt to trick an attacking army into abandoning their siege after the general had announced that they would give up if they had not taken the town by noon. Also in Brno is the 13th-century Spilberk Castle (hrad Spilberk), home to the Brno City Museum, as well as the fascinating Tugendhat Villa, built in 1930 and one of the most important examples of modern architecture from the early 20th century in Europe.

Bone Collectors: Czech Crypts, Tombs, and Cemeteries

Spread across the Czech Republic are a number of fascinating locations dedicated to preserving the remains of those slain in war or killed by diseases such as the terrible plagues that gripped Europe in medieval times. But what makes these places even more interesting are the often bizarre ways in which these centuries-old human relics are displayed. Nowhere is this more evident than in the small town of Sedlec, home to the famous "Bone Church," the Gothic All Saints Chapel. Here in the Sedlec Ossuary, the curious will be rewarded with a chance to see the remains of some 70,000 people who died between the 14th and 16th centuries displayed in rather chilling artistic fashion, including coats of arms, chandeliers, chalices, and bells. A similar effect was created at the Brno Ossuary where the remains of some 50,000 people were found stacked in heaps in archways and used as decorative displays and ornamentation. A little less spooky but impressive for its sheer size is the spectacular Schwartzenberg Tomb, a huge crypt dedicated to one of the country's most powerful dynasties.

The Colonnades and Spas of Karlovy Vary

Often referred to by its old German name of Karlsbad, Karlovy Vary is a must-visit for anyone interested in an authentic European spa experience. Established in 1358, Karlovy Vary has for centuries been a popular destination for Europe's elite, from royalty like Peter the Great to famous composers and writers including Beethoven, Chopin, and Goethe. Evidence of the town's 13 main springs, not to mention its countless smaller springs, is everywhere. In addition to the large spas, the town is filled with Neoclassical and Art Nouveau colonnades with drinking and bathing fountains. A magnificent fountain sits in the midst of the Tepla River, shooting jets of water 14 meters into the air. The town is also an important cultural destination, home to a number of art galleries and museums, as well as the popular Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in Europe.

Spectacular Libraries: The Clementinum and Strahov Monastery

Three of Europe's loveliest and oldest libraries can be found in Prague. The largest, the National Library of the Czech Republic, is in the magnificent Clementinum (Klementinum), which sits in the center of historic Prague next to the Charles Bridge. This sprawling complex of historic Baroque buildings is one of the largest in Europe, and is home to several points of interest. Library Hall is best known for its frescoed ceiling, and the Astronomical Tower resides here as well, from which tourists can enjoy lovely views. The 12th-century Strahov Monastery (Strahovsky kláster) contains two magnificent libraries, including the Philosophical Library, with its exquisite furnishings and ceiling paintings, and the Baroque Theological Library, which features excellent frescoes and stucco work. These libraries also house numerous rare manuscripts, including the nearly 1,200-year-old Strahov Gospel.

Glassworks of Karlovy Vary

In addition to its many fine spa resorts, the lovely town of Karlovy Vary remains one of Europe's most prominent glassmaking centers, an industry that has thrived here for more than 150 years. A fascinating excursion is to the Moser Visitor Centre, part of the Moser glassworks, which was established in 1857. Thanks to the skills and craftsmanship of the local glassmakers it employs, it is widely considered one of the world's leading manufacturers of decorative glass. Tours of the facility include a chance to learn about the history of glassmaking, visit the factory floor to watch glassblowers at work, and see some 2,000 fine examples of glass creations in the Glass Museum.

Kutná Hora

If you're able to visit just one Czech town apart from Prague, you couldn't do much better than choose Kutná Hora, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just 80 kilometers east of the capital, Kutná Hora was once home to one of Europe's leading silver mines, the wealth from which helped finance many of the town's most beautiful structures. Highlights include the Baroque St. Barbara's Cathedral. Built in 1338, it's notable for its beautifully decorated interior and frescoes that include not only religious themes like the mural entitled The Vision of St. Ignatius, but also references to the mining industry that funded construction. The Czech Museum of Silver contains exhibits about the medieval mining industry, as well as the Stone House, which explores daily life during those times. Tourists can also visit the town's old mint, housed in the splendid Italian Court (Vlassky dvur), the former palace of Bohemian King Vaclav IV, and the Gothic Sedlec Ossuary.

The Bohemian Paradise

One of the most beautiful corners of the Czech Republic, Eastern Bohemia is home to the spectacular Bohemian Paradise (Ceský ráj). This area of outstanding natural beauty is famous for its many massive rock formations that protrude from the ground like spikes and pillars, formed by tens of thousands of years of erosion by the elements. Now a UNESCO Geopark, the region draws hikers and sightseers from across Europe for its stunning sandstone hills, natural bridges, and tall basalt columns and outcroppings, all accessible by a network of trails and scenic drives. The region also has many old castles, including Kost Castle and Trosky Castle. Start your adventure in the town of Turnov, home to the Bohemian Paradise Visitor Center, where you can find a great deal of tourist information and maps of the region.

Konopiste Chateau and the Archduke's Trophies

One of the Czech Republic's loveliest palaces, Konopiste Chateau is just 50 kilometers southeast of Prague. Established in the 13th century and given its current Baroque form in the 18th century, this superb French-style four-winged chateau is famous as the final residence of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose untimely assassination is credited as having started WWI. The bullet that killed him is on display in the chateau's museum, as are many of the Archduke's animal trophies and many original artifacts he once owned. Other highlights include a superb collection of ancient weapons and armor, an indoor shooting range complete with moving targets, and a lovely garden with numerous statues and outbuildings.

Hluboká Castle

A short drive north of the city of Ceské Budejovice, the huge white Neo-Gothic Hluboká Castle (Hluboká nad Vltavou) is said to be the most beautiful of the Czech Republic's many fine castles. Built on the site of an older 13th-century fortress, the current castle was constructed in the 1660s and was given its present Gothic Tudor style - loosely based upon that of England's famous Windsor Castle - in subsequent extensive renovations. Highlights of a visit include its huge hedge mazes and lush foliage, along with its fine interior woodwork, stained glass windows, and furnishings. The castle also houses an extensive collection of art, including numerous pieces by leading Czech artists.

Karlstejn Castle

Karlstejn Castle was built between 1348 and 1365 for Charles IV, who was both the Czech king and the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. The grounds are arranged in a physical hierarchy, with the sacred Chapel of the Holy Cross located in the Great Tower. It is in this chapel that Charles IV stored his most precious possessions, including the crown jewels of the Roman Empire, as well as his personal collection of artifacts, including bones of saints. The interior of the chapel can be viewed by guided tour, and includes extensive frescoes by Master Theodoric. Other highlights include the Imperial Palace and Marian Tower, both of which are complete with period furnishings. Also, be sure to see the castle prison, the Well Tower, and replicas of the Roman and Czech crown jewels.

Pruhonice Park

Pruhonice Park, which is also home to Pruhonice Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located only 15 kilometers south of Prague. With a total area of 250 hectares, the expansive property includes formal gardens, wooded areas, streams, ponds, and 25 kilometers of walking paths. Among its 1,600 species of plants are a collection of more than 100 types of rhododendrons, with 8,000 specimens total. The Greater Castle, with sections dating back to the 12th century, forms a semicircle that faces the lake and gardens. Its courtyard features frescoes, statues, and a replica of the fountain found in Old Market Square in Prague.