We visited the Czeck Republic while living in Poland.
Nestled in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic is a land brimming with culture, history, and fairy-tale architecture. From the cobblestone streets of Prague to the picturesque towns dotting its countryside, this nation captivates travelers with its blend of past and present, tradition and innovation. The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Germany to the west, Austria to the south, Slovakia to the east and Poland to the north. Its capital and largest city, with 1.3 million inhabitants, is Prague. The Czech Republic includes the historical territories of Bohemia and Moravia, as well as a small part of Silesia.
The Czech Republic's story is as compelling as it is complex. Born from the rich legacies of Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia, the country has been a significant crossroads for various empires and cultures. Its history spans a millennium, from the Great Moravian Empire through the Bohemian Kingdom, to its modern formation after the Velvet Revolution in 1989. The resilience and spirit of the Czech people echo through the centuries, as they've shaped a nation proud of its heritage and optimistic about its future.
Prague, the capital, is a city that needs no introduction. Its storied streets tell tales of emperors, artists, and revolutionaries. The Prague Castle complex, the Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock are just a few of the must-visit landmarks that make Prague a top destination for history buffs and romantics alike.
Journey to Český Krumlov to witness a Renaissance town frozen in time. Its UNESCO-listed center, crowned by a stunning castle, offers a labyrinth of lanes where every turn brings a new discovery.
For those seeking relaxation, the spa town of Karlovy Vary provides an oasis of tranquility. Known for its healing thermal springs and grand colonnades, this town is a haven for wellness and architecture enthusiasts.
Brno, the Czech Republic's second-largest city, is a confluence of modernity and history. With its burgeoning tech scene, vibrant cultural life, and landmarks like the medieval Špilberk Castle and the avant-garde Villa Tugendhat, Brno is a testament to the country's dynamic spirit.
But there's more to the Czech Republic than these famous spots. Discover the wine regions of Moravia, the Gothic grace of Kutná Hora, and the battle-scarred fortresses that have withstood the tests of time.
As you plan your visit to this enchanting country, let travel.frogsfolly.com be your guide to the hidden alleys, the sweeping landscapes, and the stories waiting to be told. The Czech Republic is not just a destination; it's a journey through the annals of Europe, a mosaic of experiences waiting for you to piece together. Join us in uncovering the Czech Republic – a nation where history whispers from every corner and beauty is eternally etched into its streets.
![<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/meteorry/">Meteorry</a> posted a photo:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meteorry/55001014732/" title="Čtvrté nádvoří Pražského hradu - Praha (Czech Republik)"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001014732_a9e4d0ef2a_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Čtvrté nádvoří Pražského hradu - Praha (Czech Republik)" /></a></p>
<p><b>Čtvrté nádvoří Pražského hradu</b> 17/02/2025 10h45<br />
The fourth courtyard of the Prague Castle which is actualy a garden. We were diverted due to a ceremony at the Matyášova brána (Matthias Gate). <br />
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<u>Pražský hrad</u><br />
Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) is a castle complex in Prague, Czech Republic serving as the official residence and workplace of the president of the Czech Republic. Built in the 9th century, the castle has long served as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. As such, the term "Prague Castle" or simply "Hrad" ("the Castle") are often used as metonymy for the president and his staff and advisors. The Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept within a hidden room inside it.<br />
<br />
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, occupying an area of almost 70,000 square metres, at about 570 metres in length and an average of about 130 metres wide. The castle is the most visited tourist attraction in the Czech Republic. In 2024, the castle attracted 2.59 million visitors. <br />
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The history of the castle began in 870 when its first walled building, the Church of the Virgin Mary, was built. The Basilica of Saint George and the Basilica of St. Vitus were founded under the reign of Vratislaus I, Duke of Bohemia and his son Wenceslaus I in the first half of the 10th century.<br />
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King Ottokar II of Bohemia improved fortifications and rebuilt the royal palace for the purposes of representation and housing. In the 14th century, under the reign of Charles IV the royal palace was rebuilt in Gothic style and the castle fortifications were strengthened. In place of the rotunda and basilica of St. Vitus, building began of a vast Gothic church, that were completed almost six centuries later.<br />
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In 1918, the castle became the seat of the president of the new Czechoslovak Republic, Tomáš Masaryk. The New Royal Palace and the gardens were renovated by Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. In this period the St. Vitus Cathedral was finished on 28 September 1929. Renovations continued in 1936 under Plečnik's successor Pavel Janák.<br />
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Prague Castle's architecture is a unique blend of styles from different periods, reflecting its long and complex history. Gothic, Baroque and Classicism. <br />
<br />
[ <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prague_Castle" rel="noreferrer nofollow">Wikipedia - <b>Prague Castle</b></a> ]</p>](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001014732_a9e4d0ef2a_s.jpg)
![<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/meteorry/">Meteorry</a> posted a photo:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meteorry/55002127954/" title="[ 08/52 2025 ] Pražský hrad"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55002127954_37ca31d4d5_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="[ 08/52 2025 ] Pražský hrad" /></a></p>
<p><b>Second Best "52 Weeks Project"</b><br />
Since I have been joining the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/whysobluepandabear/pool/"><b>52 Weeks Project</b></a> on Flickr it has happened several times that I had to chose between two or more self portraits that week. A difficult choice. The solution is to create a set of all good alternatives. Life is full of choices and sometimes a week has too much opportunities. This is one of those alternatives, the second best. And sometimes just as good. <br />
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<i>Our visit to the Prague Castle on a beautiful but cold Monday morning.</i><br />
<b>Location:</b> Zahrada Na valech, Praha (CZ)<br />
<b>Coordinates:</b> <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/50%c2%b005'24.0" rel="noreferrer nofollow">50°05'24.0"N 14°23'56.2"E</a> (Google Maps)<br />
<b>Zahrada Na valech:</b> Zahrada Na valech, the second courtyard of Pražský hrad, the Prague Castle. The <i>Kohlova kašna</i>, the Kohls fountain is located here as well (visible right behind us)<br />
<b>Pražský hrad:</b> Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) is a castle complex in Prague, Czech Republic serving as the official residence and workplace of the president of the Czech Republic. Built in the 9th century, the castle has long served as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. As such, the term "Prague Castle" or simply "Hrad" ("the Castle") are often used as metonymy for the president and his staff and advisors. The Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept within a hidden room inside it.<br />
<b>Official "52-Weeks" of this week:</b> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meteorry/54361401684">08/52 Hradčanské náměstí</a> <br />
<b>Guest Star:</b> More than a guest star; Mehdi<br />
<b>Weather:</b> Sunny, -4°C (max was -1°C this day, minimum -10° C) <br />
<b>To Listen ♫:</b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3G4NKzmfC-Q" rel="noreferrer nofollow">Smetena - Moldau (Vltava)</a> (Youtube)<br />
<b>Selfie Attempts: </b> 4<br />
<b>Self-portrait technics:</b> Joby portable gorillapod placed on my crossover bag and a bench, timer on 10 seconds.</p>](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55002127954_37ca31d4d5_s.jpg)
![<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/meteorry/">Meteorry</a> posted a photo:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/meteorry/55001001307/" title="Zahrada Na valech - Praha (Czech Republik)"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001001307_31a78e1213_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="Zahrada Na valech - Praha (Czech Republik)" /></a></p>
<p><b>Zahrada Na valech</b> 17/02/2025 10h43<br />
Zahrada Na valech, the second courtyard of Pražský hrad, the Prague Castle. The <i>Kohlova kašna</i>, the Kohls fountain is located here as well. <br />
<br />
Kohl's Fountain (Czech: Kohlova kašna) is a fountain installed in the second courtyard of Prague Castle in Prague, Czech Republic. The fountain is embellished with lions' heads and Roman gods. <br />
This fountain, dating from the 17th century, is a jewel of Baroque art, adorned with elaborate sculptures and exquisite motifs. It was commissioned by the mayor of Prague, Jan Kohl, and was designed to provide drinking water to the city's inhabitants during periods of drought. [ Wikipedia ]<br />
<br />
<u>Pražský hrad</u><br />
Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) is a castle complex in Prague, Czech Republic serving as the official residence and workplace of the president of the Czech Republic. Built in the 9th century, the castle has long served as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. As such, the term "Prague Castle" or simply "Hrad" ("the Castle") are often used as metonymy for the president and his staff and advisors. The Bohemian Crown Jewels are kept within a hidden room inside it.<br />
<br />
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, occupying an area of almost 70,000 square metres, at about 570 metres in length and an average of about 130 metres wide. The castle is the most visited tourist attraction in the Czech Republic. In 2024, the castle attracted 2.59 million visitors. <br />
<br />
The history of the castle began in 870 when its first walled building, the Church of the Virgin Mary, was built. The Basilica of Saint George and the Basilica of St. Vitus were founded under the reign of Vratislaus I, Duke of Bohemia and his son Wenceslaus I in the first half of the 10th century.<br />
<br />
King Ottokar II of Bohemia improved fortifications and rebuilt the royal palace for the purposes of representation and housing. In the 14th century, under the reign of Charles IV the royal palace was rebuilt in Gothic style and the castle fortifications were strengthened. In place of the rotunda and basilica of St. Vitus, building began of a vast Gothic church, that were completed almost six centuries later.<br />
<br />
In 1918, the castle became the seat of the president of the new Czechoslovak Republic, Tomáš Masaryk. The New Royal Palace and the gardens were renovated by Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. In this period the St. Vitus Cathedral was finished on 28 September 1929. Renovations continued in 1936 under Plečnik's successor Pavel Janák.<br />
<br />
Prague Castle's architecture is a unique blend of styles from different periods, reflecting its long and complex history. Gothic, Baroque and Classicism. <br />
<br />
[ <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prague_Castle" rel="noreferrer nofollow">Wikipedia - <b>Prague Castle</b></a> ]</p>](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001001307_31a78e1213_s.jpg)
![<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/makovonmako/">MakoVonMako</a> posted a photo:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/makovonmako/55001730801/" title="19. 1. 2024 I 753.615+753.616 I Březina nad Jizerou - Mnichovo Hradiště"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001730801_4f2c5b7944_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="19. 1. 2024 I 753.615+753.616 I Březina nad Jizerou - Mnichovo Hradiště" /></a></p>
<p>Pn 64202 [Libuň - Řetenice]</p>](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55001730801_4f2c5b7944_s.jpg)
![<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/makovonmako/">MakoVonMako</a> posted a photo:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/makovonmako/55002011245/" title="21. 1. 2023 I 751.033 ; 797.813 I Praha-Krč - Praha-Kačerov"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55002011245_71cf5ec62c_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="21. 1. 2023 I 751.033 ; 797.813 I Praha-Krč - Praha-Kačerov" /></a></p>
<p>Sp 98070 [Praha-Krč - Praha hl. n.]</p>](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55002011245_71cf5ec62c_s.jpg)
