What country is czech republic. Official country name: Czech Republic
brief information
Quantity foreign tourists who come to the Czech Republic increases every year. Many tourists who have visited the Czech Republic once return there again and again. People fall in love with this country at first sight, and this love can last a lifetime. Tourists come to the Czech Republic for the unique historical and architectural monuments, magnificent nature, real Czech beer, balneological and ski resorts.
Geography of the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is located in Central Europe. The Czech Republic borders Slovakia to the east, Germany to the west, Austria to the south, and Poland to the north. The total area of this country is 78,866 sq. km, and the total length state border– 2,310 km.
In the west of the country in Bohemia there are low mountains - the Krkonose, which are structurally included in the Sudetenland. mountain range. It is in the Krkonoše that the highest Czech peak is located - Mount Sněžka (1602 m). In the east of the country in Moravia, the terrain is hilly with low mountains.
Several large rivers flow through the territory of the Czech Republic - Elbe, Vltava, Morava, and Odra. Some Czech rivers are an important part of the local national parks of the Krkonoše, Šumava, Podiya, and "Bohemian Switzerland".
Capital
The capital of the Czech Republic is Prague, which is now home to about 1.3 million people. Archaeologists believe that the first Slavic settlement on the territory of modern Prague appeared in the 6th century AD.
Official language
The official language in the Czech Republic is Czech, which belongs to the subgroup of West Slavic languages.
Religion
About 30% of the population of the Czech Republic are Catholics (Roman Catholic Church). Another 2% of Czechs are Protestants, and more than 32% of the Czech population do not believe in God.
State structure of the Czech Republic
According to the Constitution of 1990, the Czech Republic is a parliamentary republic in which the President is the formal head of state, but his powers are significantly limited. The Prime Minister has significant powers, however, he is appointed by the President and approved by the Parliament.
Legislative power belongs to the bicameral Parliament, consisting of Poslanecká sněmovna (200 deputies) and the Senate (81 people).
Until 2013, the President of the Czech Republic was elected by the Parliament of the country, but now it happens by popular vote.
Climate and weather
The climate in the Czech Republic is temperate continental with rather hot summers and cold snowy winters. In the west of the country, the average annual air temperature is +7C, and in southern Moravia - +9C. In Prague in July, the air temperature can reach +33C, and in the west of the country in February it can drop to -17C.
In winter, there is a lot of snow in the mountains of the Czech Republic, and this guarantees a long ski season.
Average air temperature in the Czech Republic:
January - -3C
- February - -2C
- March - +3C
- April - +8C
- May - +13C
- June - +16C
- July - +18C
- August - +17С
- September - +14С
- October - +8C
- November - +3С
- December - -1C
Rivers and lakes
Several large rivers flow through the territory of the Czech Republic - Elbe, Vltava, Morava, and Odra. In addition, there are many natural small lakes in the Czech Republic, as well as about 150 artificial lakes.
Story
Around the 4th century BC. Celtic tribes settled on the territory of modern Czech Republic, but after a few centuries they were supplanted by Germanic tribes. The Slavs appeared in the Czech Republic at the end of the 5th century AD.
In the 9th century, the flowering of the Czech Republic begins, which is associated with the rule of the Přemyslid dynasty. The Czech state manages to actually maintain its independence, although it was in vassal dependence on the Holy Roman Empire.
In 1085, the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV granted the Czech prince Vratislav the right to use the royal title. However, the independence of the Kingdom of Bohemia was proclaimed only in 1212.
From 1419 to 1436, the religious Hussite wars continued in the Czech Republic, as a result of which the Hussite religion was recognized by Catholics as one of the religions in this country.
Since 1526, the Habsburgs became kings of the Czech Republic, and thus this country became part of the Holy Roman Empire. By the way, the Czech Republic was part of Austria until 1918.
After the end of the First World War in October 1918, a single state was formed from the Czech Republic and Slovakia - Czechoslovakia.
As a result, the so-called. "Munich agreement" in 1939, Czechoslovakia was occupied by German troops. The Germans turned the Czech Republic into the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia.
After the end of World War II, socialist Czechoslovakia was formed. In 1968, the Warsaw Pact countries were forced to send troops to Czechoslovakia in order to support the socialist system in it.
In November 1989 in Czechoslovakia there was a so-called. "Velvet Revolution", which removed the Communist Party from power. Vaclav Havel became president of Czechoslovakia.
On January 1, 1993, two new independent states appeared on the political map of the world - Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
In 1999, the Czech Republic became a member of the NATO military bloc, and in 2004 it was admitted to the EU.
Culture of the Czech Republic
Czechs are proud of their traditions and carefully pass them on from generation to generation. So, in one of the Moravian villages of Vlcnovo, the “Ride of Kings” festival is still held every year, during which local boys and teenagers ride horses decorated with colorful ribbons throughout the region. At the same time, the riders themselves are dressed in traditional folk costumes. The boy-king is guarded by two bodyguards with sabers.
The fact is that in the Middle Ages in Moravia (and in the vicinity of the village of Vlchnovo) local princes often traveled, who for the peasants were real kings.
Czechs love to celebrate Walpurgis Night (from April 30 to May 1). Sometimes the Czechs call this holiday "Witch Burning Night". Of course, no one has been burning witches in the Czech Republic for many centuries. Now, in order to maintain this ancient custom, the Czechs set fire to brooms and throw them into the air (to see how witches used to fly in the air).
Czechs believe that at midnight on May 1, treasures can be found. However, at this time, the forces of evil are capable of harming a person. Therefore, treasure seekers on the night of May 1 need to have a fern leaf on their heads (on their faces).
Czech cuisine
In recent years, the Czech Republic has begun to pay more attention to healthy eating and various new recipes. However, traditional Czech recipes are still very popular in the Czech Republic.
- "bramborová polévka" - potato soup
- "zelná polévka" - sauerkraut soup
- "kuřecí polévka" - chicken noodle soup
- "hovězí guláš s knedlíkem" - beef goulash with dumplings
- "pečené kuře s brambory" - fried chicken with potatoes
- "knedlíky" - dumplings are made with a variety of fillings
- "jablečný závin" - apple strudel
- "Medovník" - cake with honey
Traditional Czech alcoholic drink- beer. As in some other European countries, beer in the Czech Republic began to be brewed in the early Middle Ages in monasteries. Now Czech beer is famous all over the world.
Sights of the Czech Republic
For lovers of attractions, the Czech Republic is an ideal country. There are many different attractions in the Czech Republic, and it is difficult for us to choose the best of them. Nevertheless, in our opinion, the top ten attractions in the Czech Republic include the following:
Castle Hluboka nad Vltavou
Hluboka Castle was built in the second half of the 13th century. Hluboka Castle received its current magnificent neo-Gothic appearance thanks to the Schwarzenberg family, who owned it since 1661. Today the castle houses a museum.
Cherven Lhota Castle
Chervena Lhota Castle in South Bohemia was built during the Renaissance. It is located on a rocky island in the middle of the lake. The castle is connected to the ground by a narrow stone bridge. Chervena Lhota Castle got its name from its red-painted walls.
Karlštejn Castle
Karlštejn Castle was built in 1348 by the Czech king and Roman emperor Charles IV. Once upon a time, the treasures and regalia of Czech kings were kept in this castle.
Caves in the Moravian Karst Nature Reserve
Territory nature reserve The "Moravian Karst" is about 92 sq. km. There are about 1,100 gorges and caves here.
Geopark "Czech Paradise"
In the north of the Czech Republic, there is the Bohemian Paradise geopark, which has a large number of mineralogy, paleontology and archeology monuments.
Vysehrad Castle
Vysehrad Castle, as historians believe, was built on a hill above the Vltava in the 10th century. According to legend, it was in Vyšehrad Castle that the Czech princess Libuše foretold the future greatness of Prague.
Konopiste Castle
This castle is located 50 kilometers from Prague. It was built in the 1289s in the style of French fortresses with round towers. Konopiste Castle was once the last residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
Singing Fountains in Prague
The Singing Fountains were built in 1891. Later, the Czech engineer Frantisek Krzhizhikovy made them lighting. Now the "Singing Fountains" are one of the most favorite places for recreation of the inhabitants of Prague.
Charles Bridge in Prague
The Charles Bridge across the Vltava was built in the 14th century. The bridge is decorated with 30 statues that were erected by various universities, religious orders, archbishops, princes, etc.
St. Vitus Cathedral
The construction of St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague lasted from 1344 to 1929. It is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world.
Cities and resorts of the Czech Republic
The largest cities in the Czech Republic are Brno, Pilsen, Ostrava, and, of course, Prague.
The Czech Republic is known for its ski resorts with excellent developed infrastructure skating. The most popular Czech ski resorts are Harrachov, Jablonec nad Jizerou, Rokytnice nad Jizerou, Spindlerov Mlyn, Pec pod Snezkou, Hruby Jeseník, Velké Losiny, Boží Dar, and Liberec. Due to the large amount of snow, the skiing season in the Czech Republic lasts from December to April.
Tourists come to the Czech Republic not only to admire the sights of this country and go skiing at local ski resorts. In the Czech Republic there are a large number mineral springs, and, as a result, tourists also come to this country very often for the sake of balneological resorts. Karlovy Vary has a reputation as a world-class balneological resort.
Other popular Czech balneological resorts are Marianske Lazne, Frantiskove Lazne, Jachymov, Teplice, Luhacovice, and Poděbrady.
Souvenirs/Shopping
Tourists from the Czech Republic usually bring dishes, porcelain, Bohemian glassware, ceramics, jewelry with semi-precious Czech pomegranate, Czech beer, Becherovka liqueur, plum brandy, which is made in South Moravia, as well as Czech waffles (from Karlovy Vary) and chocolate .
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Czech Česká republika
Czech Republic - video
The total area of the country is approximately 79 thousand square kilometers. Large "water arteries" of the Czech Republic - the rivers Laba, Vltava, Morava, Odra. The relief of the country is dominated mainly by low mountain ranges. highest point is Mount Snezhna, whose height is a little over 1,600 meters above sea level.
The Czech Republic has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold and very humid winters. Due to the fact that the territory of the country is surrounded on all sides by mountains, the weather here is quite stable. In winter, the mountains are covered with a stable snow cover, so many popular ski resorts are open at this time.
The population of the country is approximately 10.5 million people. Of these, 95% are native Czechs, and the remaining 5% are immigrants. Among foreigners there are Ukrainians, Slovaks, Vietnamese, Russians, Germans, Gypsies and Hungarians. Religiously, there are both believers and atheists in the Czech Republic. Among believing citizens, the largest group of co-religionists is Catholics, the second largest group is Protestants. There are also followers who support the Czech Reformed Church (separated from the Vatican in the 20s of the last century). On the territory of the state, they mainly speak Czech, but Russian can also be used as a literary language.
In the Czech Republic, the development of industry is at a fairly high level. The machine-building industry, metallurgy, fuel and energy, light, chemical and food industries are the most developed here.
The monetary unit of the Czech Republic is the crown. After the collapse of Czechoslovakia, the value of the crown on the world market fell markedly, but this moment its rate has grown significantly, unlike some other monetary units of the post-Soviet states.
A number of humanitarian organizations operate in the Czech Republic. For example, the Czech Red Cross is an organization that focuses mainly on providing social and medical assistance to the population of the country.
Sports are good in the Czech Republic. The national football team is famous for its achievements in Europe. Well, of course, the country's hockey team is also known all over the world - one of the strongest teams on the planet. Until recently, the republic was a leader among not only European, but also world countries in such a sport as decathlon. Also here, athletes show excellent results in sports such as rowing and tennis.
Sights of the Czech Republic
One of the many attractions in the Czech Republic is Orlik castle, built in the 13th century as a small fortress to defend the crossing of the Vltava River. By appearance The castle resembles an eagle's nest and is located on top of a high cliff.
The largest collection of tapestries, the armory, which displays medieval tools, can be seen in castle Hluboka over the Vltava. Around the castle there is a beautiful english park with small hunting lodges. The castle with a park is the most famous and visited attraction in the Czech Republic.
At the intersection of the two largest rivers of the Czech Republic, the Labe and the Vltava, on the territory of an ancient Slavic fortress is located Melnik castle, which was built by representatives of the Přemyslid family. Subsequently, the castle became the residence of the chosen ones of Czech nobles.
40 kilometers from the capital of the Czech Republic is Dobris castle built in the eighteenth century in the Gothic style. This is one of the most famous royal hunting castles.
Another attraction of the Czech Republic is Cesky Sternberk - castle, built in the first half of the XIII century and to this day is the property of the descendants of its founders.
In the northern part of the country is nature Park, which is called Czech Switzerland. This is a natural park, where there is everything for have a great holiday and travel - dense forest, high cliffs, deep canyons and fast mountain rivers.
Another natural park is located in the northeast of the Czech Republic and is called Czech paradise. The area of the park is about 95 square kilometers. The shape of the Bohemian Paradise resembles an isosceles triangle with the cities of Jicin, Turnov, Mlada Boleslav at its peaks. Since 1954, the reserve has been under state protection. The name of the park was given by the tourists themselves, who visit it with pleasure. Here you can go rafting down a mountain river, ride a horse or go along tourist routes.
1. The time difference between Czech cities and Moscow is 3 hours. The days off of the week are Saturday and Sunday.
2. Czechs are a people who are not averse to having a good time in holidays. When traveling around the cities of the Czech Republic, keep in mind that it is customary to celebrate such holidays as Czech Independence Day (October 28), Statehood Day (September 28), Saints Cyril and Methodius Day (July 5) and Jan Hus Day (July 6).
3. In the cities of the republic it is forbidden to leave garbage on the streets. If you do not follow this rule, you may be punished with a large monetary fine.
4. In major cities bars, cafes and restaurants open at 9 am and close at 11 pm. In small towns, these establishments can start working from 11 or 12 noon. Shops in the Czech Republic are open from 8 am to 5 pm, and supermarkets are usually open around the clock.
5. Tourists in the Czech Republic should pay special attention to the fact that here, when meeting, a woman is the first to give a hand to a man, and also male representatives should be the first to enter an open door.
6. In cafes or restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip in the amount of 5-10% of the total order value. You can also leave a small amount of money for the guide or taxi driver. If you are not satisfied with the quality of the service provided, you can not leave a tip - in the Czech Republic this is considered the norm.
7. Czech taxis are among the most expensive among Eastern European countries. Be careful when paying with drivers - they can take advantage of the passenger's inattention and incorrectly give change.
8. In the Czech Republic, every small village brews its own beer, so there are a lot of beers here. Experienced lovers of this foamy drink advise taking the first sip as large as possible in order to feel all the subtleties of the beer taste and aroma.
9. People living in the Czech Republic are very fond of animals. Almost every Czech family has its own pet. Special bins for animals have been installed on the streets - thus, local authorities monitor the cleanliness of the sidewalks.
10. Tourists should always carry an identity document with them, as representatives of the local police may at any time require it to be presented. If you are traveling within the city, then a copy of such a document will suffice.
Czech Republic on the map
Czech Republic- a state in the center of Europe with a simply crazy concentration of attractions per square kilometer in the literal sense of the word.The country borders on Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Poland. Territory Czech Republic is divided into three regions: Bohemia (west), Silesia (northeast), Moravia (east).
Tourist Czech Republic
Most interesting cities Czech Republic
Prague- the capital of the Czech Republic, the most beautiful and romantic city in Europe.
Brno- the largest locality in the eastern region Czech Republic(Moravia).
Krumlov- one of the oldest Czech cities, where the castle of the same name is located.
Opava- major city Czech Republic with a high concentration of historical values. It is located almost on the border with Poland.
Karlovy Vary- the highest concentration of health resorts, historical sights and simply beautiful cobbled streets with colorful houses.
Jesenik- a well-known winter resort town.
Kutna Hora- historical value Czech Republic, where the Cathedral of St. Barbara, silver mines and many other interesting buildings are located.
Pilsen- the largest city in the west of the country, the birthplace of the most famous in Russia and not only Pilsner Urquell foamy drink.
Useful information for tourists:
- tips in restaurants, taxi driver and guide are 10% of the check amount
- museums and attractions, where admission is not free, do not work on Mondays and the day after the holidays
- The sale of entrance tickets to the museum ends one hour before the closing of the museum. Almost all museum complexes operate from nine in the morning until six in the evening. Opening hours of the Jewish Museum, located in Prague from Sunday to Friday. Saturday is a day off.
- in Czech Republic it is forbidden to smoke at public transport stops, as well as in the premises of educational institutions, public institutions. For violation of this prohibition, a fine of 1000 kroons
- emergency numbers: fire safety service - 150; health care- 155; police - 156
- there are a lot of ticks in the country - carriers of borreliosis and encephalitis. Local residents try to vaccinate themselves and their loved ones in the spring, and tourists should be extremely careful, choose paved sidewalk paths for walking and avoid lawns and walking on tall grass.
- Czech Republic- a country where it is allowed to carry drugs, but in limited quantities
- do not know Czech or English - you can try to communicate with the locals in Russian, most of the old-timers remember the language perfectly and can speak it fluently with tourists from Russia.
"Mobile" communication in the Czech Republic
AT Czech Republic you can buy a SIM card from the Vodafone mobile operator. The cost of a SIM card is 200 kroons, which are credited immediately to the account (the so-called credit for calls). You can buy a SIM card in Prague in close proximity to Wenceslas Square. Calling to Russia follows the following scheme: +7, then the codecity, then the subscriber's number. AT Czech Republic call code +420. Trafika kiosks are installed in Prague to replenish the account. The nearest such kiosk is located near Wenceslas Square at the Mustek metro station.
Currency transactions in the Czech Republic
The country that is part of the EU has its own currency - Czech crowns. The exchange rate in each bank is different. BUT! You should not be fooled by an attractive exchange rate - most private exchangers set a commission fee for currency exchange, often the commission reaches ten percent of the exchange amount. Usually the commission is indicated on the stand, but it can be written in very small letters, which you can’t immediately make out, and when the exchange has passed, it will be very difficult to return the money back. In many exchangers, far from Czechs work, but people of Asian appearance. Therefore, it is worth, having come to the bank, the first thing to ask about the commission and its percentage. You can exchange currency in any, even a three-star hotel, however, the rate is not very profitable. Also exchange offices work at railway stations, at the airport.In Prague, you can exchange currency at souvenir sellers. Usually, good "currency traders" who will not be deceived and exchanged without any commissions are known by the guides.
Czech traditions and holidays
The formation of the culture of this wonderful country has been going on for several centuries. The traditions of neighboring countries also actively influenced it. Czech Republic countries.
The hospitality of the local people is amazing. Moreover, this is not a simulated quality, the desire to show oneself from the best side. The Czechs are really very friendly, hospitable, constantly smiling and trying to help every tourist who has applied. Many old-timers still remember the Russian language, so it will be easy for a tourist who does not know Czech or English to communicate with a local resident whose age is from 45+. Young people, almost young and old, are fluent in English language, so going on a tour of Czech Republic you can take an English-Russian phrase book with you. In general, the Czech language is not so difficult - before traveling to replenish your vocabulary, you can learn a couple of frequently used phrases in order to feel comfortable and respond with your own courtesy to the courtesy of local residents.
AT Czech Republic love to celebrate holidays. Moreover, it does not matter whether it is a religious event (Catholic or Orthodox) or a secular one.Here's what you should really visit while in Czech Republic, so this is a local wedding, taking place according to all Czech traditions. Impressive and amazing performance!
The Czechs have a special attitude to national holidays - they not only honor them, but also celebrate them according to all traditions and rules. December is one of the busiest months of the year, with Saint Barbara's Day (December 4th), Saint Nicholas' Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
AT Saint Barbara's Day
locals cut off a sprig of rowan and put in water. If the branch blooms for Christmas, then the next year will be successful for the family.
St. Nicolas day
- it's like international day children, celebrated around the world on June 1, only in Czech. On this day, children's events, matinees, concerts and competitions are held throughout the country.
Christmas traditions
Christmas without carp is not Christmas. It is this opinion that the Czechs hold, who cannot imagine a holiday without carp in any form of cooking. The fish is stewedbaked, stuffed, fried, made aspic. Generally in Czech Republic more than a dozen dishes led by carp. It is believed that every self-respecting housewife must cook this fish for Christmas without fail.
An interesting fact: on the eve of the Catholic holiday, the shops begin an active sale of carp, well-fed, fattened, selected. But he swims in aquariums, barrels, mini-pools, bathtubs right on the street near the entrance to the store. Moreover, the containers with water and fish are not fenced in any way - you can touch, look, get the fish. Many Russian tourists a fish left unattended and properly controlled causes at least surprise and a logical question: "Don't they really steal?". We explain. No. They don't steal. It would never occur to local residents to steal. They have it in their upbringing and mentality. By the way, many shopping centers have self-service terminals for paying for purchased goods. This is done so that a person does not stand idle at the box office, but can independently scan the cost of the goods and make a payment for it. We asked the security service a logical question: “And if they don’t pay for all the goods?”, The security guards answered with a smile: “We trust our customers.” That's it!
How to get to Prague from Moscow
Get to Czech Republic If you have a Schengen visa, it will not be difficult. The country is located on the mainland, not fenced off by seas and oceans, so you can safely travel by car, especially when it comes to residents of Moscow, the Moscow region and other not remote regions.
By private vehicle
You can give yourself a lot of pleasure and go to Czech Republic by private car. The distance from Moscow to Prague is about 1600 kilometers.
By plane
If the principle "quickly and comfortably" applies, then it is optimal to choose an air flight. Fly to Prague (the capital Czech Republic) can be from Moscow in two hours with a "tail". The flight is organized by several airlines: Aeroflot, Czech Airlines. Daily from Moscow, these airlines serve up to six flights to Prague and back.
On average, the cost of a ticket in the "peak" season is 9,000 rubles per direct flight Moscow-Prague. If you choose the option with a transfer, you can get 1,400 rubles as a "bonus". The only caveat is the increased flight time (minimum - 4 hours, maximum - 19 hours). Therefore, if you want to get to Prague quickly, then the best option would be a direct flight to Prague from Moscow.
The cheapest tickets can be bought in February, June and July.
Transport in the Czech Republic
Urban transport connection
Municipal transport links in the Czech Republic are very well developed, operate smoothly and are in high demand among local residents. For trips to public transport a single ticket is provided, it is purchased at the box office at metro stations or in special kiosks located at many bus stops.A single ticket allows you to freely travel around the city on any type of public transport. The only condition is the validity period of the travel card, the countdown of which starts from the moment the ticket was validated. The fares are quite affordable. If you plan to travel by metro, by tram toduring the day, it is better to buy a daily pass. By the way, controllers are a regular phenomenon in public transport, and fines for an expired travel card are significant. It's better not to risk it.
Public transport runs exclusively according to the schedule. And for daylight hours - one schedule, and for the night - another. You can get acquainted with the movement of transport literally at every stopping point.
AT Czech Republic intercity transport links are well developed - you can move around the country by rail, by regular buses or by plane.
Rail connection
The cheapest and most comfortable way to get around Czech Republic there will be a railroad. AT Czech Republic well-developed railway communication, led by the management company Ceske Drahy (abbreviation - CD). Trains depart to all regions of the country from Prague several times per hour.
The country has three types of trains running between cities:
- InterCity, EuroCity (sometimes you can see the abbreviation "IC", "EC" on the cars). The fare is not cheap, but it is very comfortable, convenient and fast.
- Rychlik, Express (abbreviation - R, Ex) - the fare is average, the speed of movement is high.
- Osobni (abbreviation - O) - they drive very slowly, but they are also cheap.
Ticket offices at railway stations are open only during the day!
Intercity buses
Bus Passenger Transportation well developed in Czech Republic. This method of transportation is used by the locals themselves. There is nothing surprising - dozens of transport companies offer passengers comfortable, convenient, modern buses, on which traveling is a pleasure.
Every city has at least one bus station where you can buy bus tickets. Buses run strictly according to the schedule, and the trip will bring a lot of pleasant emotions and will not tire you in any way.Bus tickets can be purchased from the driver directly at the entrance to the bus or on online services. Seats are not indicated on the tickets, so the passenger can sit anywhere.
The main bus carrier in the Czech Republic is CSAD, which operates both domestic and international flights. In Prague, you can take the bus of this company from the Florenc bus station.You can also contact the CSAD information window, which is open from 6 am to 8 pm on weekdays, on Saturday from 6 am to 4 pm, on Sunday from 8 am to 6 pm. In the information window, you can immediately purchase a ticket for travel.
No less popular in the Czech Republic is a motor transport company that provides bus transportation around the country, Student Agency, vehicles which are characterized by impeccable comfort, as well as incomparable service. By the way, route tickets are often cheaper at Student Agency than with other carriers. Buses leave Prague from the Zlicin metro station. Tickets, where the landing places are indicated, are sold there, in a special kiosk near the metro station.
How much are travel tickets in the Czech Republic
The cost of a ticket is influenced by several factors, firstly, the class of the car, and secondly, the distance. But you can save a lot by purchasing "weekend" travel SONE +. The advantage of this pass is that it allows you to travel around the country on any type of train without restrictions throughout the weekend. By the way, this type of ticket is valid even in areas on the borders of neighboring countries of the Czech Republic. For trips on weekdays, you can buy a Sitova jizdenka ticket.By the way, students have the opportunity to get significant discounts on travel in public transport. Children under the age of six can ride for free. A 50% discount will be given to children under the age of fifteen. And for students, a ticket will cost one and a half times cheaper than for ordinary passengers.
Car rent
During a long stay in Czech Republic The best option would be to rent a vehicle. To rent a car, two conditions are required: age - from 21 years old and a new type of driver's license.
Attention! Rules of movement on the roads of the Czech Republic!
Traffic Laws Czech Republic slightly different from the rules established in Russia.
For example, the maximum speed in the city is 50 km / h, on the highway - no more than 90 km / h, on high-speed roads the maximum allowable speed is 130 km / h.In the city, the tram has an advantage while driving, and this must always be remembered - in every city, the tram service is developed with a bang.
For unhindered movement around the country by car (even rented), you must pay a transport tax. You can do this at any gas station, after which you will be issued a special permit card, which must be kept and not lost, but it is best to immediately stick it on the windshield. The coupon is valid for a year. Its absence entails the imposition of a very impressive fine on the driver.
Gas stations are located at the entrance to cities, as well as on highways at a distance of approximately every fifty kilometers. But unlike gas stations in Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, operating around the clock, in Czech Republic they are open until nine in the evening and then they close.
Cycling in the Czech Republic
Bicycle riding is very common in Czech Republic. More than 37 thousand kilometers of bicycle paths have been laid across the country. Prague has the largest length of cycling routes. In other regions, there are no fewer bike paths than in Prague. Routes are laid, which locals call "greenway" mainly along reservoirs, rivers, railways. Traveling through Czech Republic by bike, you can explore a lot historical sites, including pilgrimage and trade routes, routes, monuments of architecture and history. You can rent a bike at any of the numerous rental points located literally in every city.
Holidays in the Czech Republic
Czech Republic- a country with incredible tourism potential. Each city is a real treasure of the country. Only Prague with its cobbled streets, breathtaking architectural monuments drives you crazy, and what can we say about Karlovy Vary, Brno, which are beautiful regardless of the time of year and the weather outside the window. Numerous castles, manors, caves deserve special attention, which are unrealistic to explore even for a week-long vacation in the country.
Accommodation in the Czech Republic
The hotel chain is well developed in the country. Moreover, you can stay without fear even in three-star hotels, private boarding houses, renting apartments or apartments. A distinctive feature is the high level of service, regardless of the "star" of the hotel, spacious, comfortable, clean rooms, reasonable prices, even in four and five-star hotels. Most hotels have free Wi-Fi, parking (though paid). For large families with children, it is most profitable to rent apartments. Apartments, even the most presentable, are also distinguished by low cost.
Main Czech sights
Castles of the Czech Republic
This is the main pride of the country - only in the territory Czech Republic there are more than 2.5 thousand castles that have been perfectly preserved to this day! In every region Czech Republic has its own castle attraction, with history, legends.Today, many castles host a variety of festivals, theatrical performances, concerts, costume shows and knightly battles. And each of the events is aimed at revealing the story Czech Republic with its color, features and traditions.
Czech cities according to the Must See principle
AT Czech Republic, probably one of the highest concentrations of ancient cities that you should definitely visit when you come to this wonderful country.
Czech krumlov
One of the most famous cities South Bohemia, where historical buildings in the Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic styles are located. Krumlov Castle is not inferior to Prague Castle in its significance and is included in the UNESCO list. The "Krumlov" ensemble includes more than forty buildings, palaces, five courtyards and a wonderful garden with centuries-old green spaces.
In the immediate vicinity of Krumlov there is an interesting attraction, opened in 2012 and awarded the title of the best Czech attraction of the new generation - lookout tower with a suspended structure made of wood, starting from the ground, stretching over Lipno Lake and rising to the very top of the tower.
Telc - Czech "Venice"
In the region of Moravia there is unique city on the water, surrounded by two artificial reservoirs and a canal. The central object of Telč is considered to be an ancient fortress built in the Middle Ages and preserved in its almost original form to this day. Arriving in Telč, you should definitely visit the Palace with many halls, distinguished by chic decoration and incredible beauty and entertainment.
Jindrichuv Hradec - acquaintance with the castle of the 13th century
This city is the third largest and most important castle complex, built in the 13th century. The main attraction of the complex is the palace with the most valuable paintings, the church of St. John, the interior of which is decorated with rare frescoes, as well as the Minorite monastery. The city annually hosts festivals of folklore and classical music that are significant for the country.
Brno - the largest concentration of spiritual values
The central object of the city is the Gothic castle of Spielberg, founded in the 13th century and still striking in its charm. The castle is located on the top of the mountain, so the view from its central point is amazing. By the way, the city of Spielberg is depicted on almost all Czech coins.
While in Brno, you should definitely visit the Moravian Gallery - the second largest and most important Czech museum.And Brno is very beautiful. Cathedral St. Paul and Peter, the Catholic Churches of St. Jacob, St. Michael, the majestic Town Hall, the Basilica of the Virgin Mary and many other equally significant historical sights.
Kutna Hora
It was here that active silver mining took place in the 14th century. And in the city there is the famous Chapel of All Saints, built in the 15th century. While in Kutná Hora, you should definitely get acquainted with the Vlašsky Dvor - a complex of buildings dating back to the 13th-14th centuries (it was here that the residence of Czech kings was in the old days). Kutna Hora is also famous for its mint, the Silver Museum located in the Stone Palace, the Cathedral of St. Barbara (outwardly, the cathedral is practically no different from the French Notre Dame de Paris).
Memorial complex "Terezin"
Russian tourists will be interested in visiting the Terezin memorial, where during the Second World War there was a Jewish ghetto, in which, according to estimates, there were about 140 thousand people. During the hostilities, only 17 thousand people survived. Terezin was liberated by Soviet troops on May 9, 1945. Today Terezin is a memorial complex dedicated to the victims of the concentration camp.
Czech cuisine
National cuisine Czech Republic: not for losing weight and that's a fact! "Puffy" - that's what you can call the kitchen Czech Republic where meat, flour, fried dishes predominate. Portion sizes are a foodie's dream. But with such an abundance of food, its high calorie content, the locals are distinguished by a slender and fit figure! By the way, many Czechs consider most dishes national cuisine snacks. Yes Yes. It is appetizers for the most important dish, or rather a drink - beer. Brewing is so developed in the Czech Republic that for the production of this foamy drink, the country can be safely recorded on the podium. Hundreds of varieties, flavors and aromas. Delicious beer is served to the table in any restaurant and cafe. Moreover, many tourists note that it is in cafes and bars that the most delicious beer, the most delicious pork knuckle and dumplings are. So when walking along Czech city and being in search of the "very-most" restaurant, pay attention to the cafe on some quiet street. AT Czech Republic the quality of food, the level of service in the institution, the degree of serving dishes are not determined by the status of the catering establishment.
Shopping in the Czech Republic
Czech Republic one of the most attractive countries for shopaholics after Germany. In every city you can find stores of famous world brands. Pleased with a wide range, reasonable prices. AT Czech Republic the TESCO supermarket chain is well developed, where, by Russian standards, the price tag for most goods and food is simply ridiculous. Be sure to pay attention to the "red price", as you can literally buy excellent things and interior items for next to nothing.
Most retail outlets are open from 9 am to 6 pm. Hypermarkets and grocery stores are open until nine in the evening and can open at six in the morning. On weekends, pre-holiday and holidays, the opening hours of stores are reduced by several hours, but not critically. By the way, many hypermarkets, especially in large cities, operate around the clock.
On the eve of Catholic Christmas, national holidays, most boutiques and shopping centers, for example, in the same one in Prague, work as usual. But on Christmas itself, almost everything is closed - local residents really honor this holiday and try, despite the huge flows of tourists, to celebrate the church holiday with their families.
Slavic population in the territory of the Czech Republic Frankish chronicles of the XI century. Designated by the term "bohemians" Several tribes settled here. Czechs lived in the Prague Basin, in the area of Zatec - Luchians, in the north of the Czech Republic - Lemuzy, in the area of Melnik - Litomerzhitsy and Pshovans, in the eastern part of the Czech Republic - Harvats, in the southern part - Dulebs.
In the X - XI centuries. among these tribes, the tribal system is disintegrating and Rennefeudal relations are being formed. Tribal leaders, nobles and other powerful personalities seized common tribal property and, with the help of squads, turned entire villages, clans, tribes into their property and forced them to work for themselves and maintain their yards and squads.
The feudal lords were also constantly at war with each other, trying to annex neighboring territories, thus, the unification of territorial and ethnic units took place, this process was especially intensive in Central Bohemia, where the princes of the Přemyslid dynasty ruled.
Speaking of the Premyslians, we can say that the dynasty originates in Great Moravia at the end of the 9th and beginning of the 10th centuries. The first mention in the sources of a prince of this kind (872) was Prince Borzhivoi, to whom the Czechs, Luchians, Lemuzy, Litomerians obeyed.
In 884, Borzhivoy submitted to Svyatopolk of Moravia.
In 885, Borzhivoy and his wife converted to Christianity, because. he understood the importance of Christianity for strengthening power.
In 895 Bohemia became part of Moravia.
After the great Moravia fell (906), its tribes and the principalities that were part of it began to separate and form independent associations. The Czech Republic - fighting for its independence, fought more than once with the weakened Moravia. After the collapse, the Czech Republic became economically stronger than it was under the rule of the Mojmirovichs and part of the rule of the Přemyslid dynasty.
Prince Borzhivom is mentioned in the chronicle of Kozma of Prague, written in 1102. There is no complete certainty that the chronicle is telling the truth, since Kozma collected information two hundred years ago and the likelihood that many of the data may be unreliable and non-existent is quite high.
After the reign of Borzhivy, the Czech Republic was ruled by his grandson Vaclav. In later historiography, Wenceslas is very popular. He ruled from 921 to 935, planting Christianity in his country, exacting ordinary requisitions from his subjects, and conducting armed conflicts with opponents.
The fact is that at that time elements of paganism were still strong in the country. As a result of a conspiracy in 935, Wenceslas was killed, and subsequently canonized as a martyr for the Christian faith.
Boleslav I, having ascended the throne, refused to pay tribute to the German king and for 14 years successfully repelled the onslaught of Otto I. However, in 950 Boleslav nevertheless recognized dependence on the German king and helped him defeat the Hungarians and annex Silesia and the Principality of the Vislans to his possessions with Krakow. There is also information in some sources that Boleslav took possession of Moravia and part of Slovakia.
Inside the country, Boleslav introduced a new coin - a silver denarius, which lasted until 1300.
Under Boleslav I and his successors, the system of state administration changed significantly. Tribal leaders and elders of the clans, if they did not obey the prince, were exterminated. The state was divided into regions governed from princely castles, where, in addition to servicemen, headed by the burggrave, there was a garrison and servants.
Decrees emanating from the Prague Castle, which was the center of the Czech Republic, were in force throughout the country.
The prince appointed his combatants to important administrative positions - chief burggrave, supreme chancellor, chief clerk, etc., rewarding them with lands with peasants, villages, fortresses, which they first used as fief possessions, and then began to be inherited. This is how the feudal class was formed.
The first state tax "tribute from the world" was established and zemstvo duties were established.
Bolesław I decided to establish the Prague Bishopric, but died in 972 before he could fulfill his intention.
The prince was his son Bolesław II, who received official regalia for the bishop of the Prague diocese in 973.
The bishopric strengthened the power of the Přemyslids, and the church completely submitted to the prince. He appointed and dismissed priests, collected church tithes from believers, founded three monasteries and was called "Pious".
Military campaigns Boleslav II captured part of the Upper Puddle and Galician land.
In the center of the Bohemian basin stood the castle of Libice, where the political center began to take shape. The castle was owned by Prince Slavnik, who considered himself equal in nobility to the Přemyslids and did not obey them. He also, like Boleslav, minted his own coin and independently established relations with foreign rulers.
The Přemyslids saw this as a threat. In 982, a conflict arose between the Přemyslids and Slavnikovs.
In 995, the squad of Boleslav II captured Libice, destroying the Slavnikovs, Boleslav II united the entire Czech Republic under the rule of the Přemyslids.
He was succeeded by Boleslav III (999 - 1003), under which the Czech state entered a period of crisis.
The German emperor Henry II forced the Czech prince to recognize vassalage.
And the Czech prince Vratislav II (1061-1092) for loyalty to Emperor Henry II received the title of king, however, without the right to inherit.
In the XI century. the early feudal centralization of the Czech state weakened, the country entered a period of feudal fragmentation. The territory of the state broke up into extreme. The center of each extreme was a city. All the main judicial, administrative and financial positions in the management of the extreme were in the hands of local landowners, in whose favor special incomes were received. Local feudal lords also made up the military militia. They also discussed the affairs of the extreme at the extreme congresses (regional diets). All positions in the central government and the court were also replaced by the feudal nobility. The princes of the Czech Republic were powerless to resolve issues of war, peace or finance without the feudal nobility, who sat in the diets and in the council under the prince. The 11th-13th centuries were a time when the feudal property of large and small landowners, as well as churches, continued to expand and strengthen. Already in the X century. the right to use wastelands and forests, including the clearing of novi and the founding of new villages, depended on the feudal lords. Founding these villages, the feudal lords populated them with dependent peasants and forbade the neighboring population from using communal lands. Free Peasants - Grandfathers Soviet Historical Encyclopedia. -- M.: Soviet Encyclopedia. Ed. E. M. Zhukova. 1973--1982, owned by inheritance law land plots and occupied by their specific gravity at the beginning of the XI century. still a prominent place among the peasants, were thereby placed in a hopeless situation. Ruined as a result of the prohibition to use communal lands, the dedichi became dependent on the feudal lords, to whom they were obliged to pay all kinds of dues. An important role in the ruin and enslavement of the grandfathers was also played by the direct seizure of their lands by feudal lords and forcible enslavement.
However, the specific system in the country is not being developed. By the end of the XII century. the Moravian Margrave and the Bishop of Prague were again forced to acknowledge their submission to the Bohemian crown. Fragmentation manifested itself not so much in the direct disintegration of the state into politically separate parts, but in the growth of the privileges of the aristocracy and the entire nobility. The feudal lords secured hereditary rights to land, expanded immunity privileges, etc. The Catholic Church wrested the most concessions from the central government: the subordination of the clergy only to the church court, the right to tithe, etc. An indicator of the increased importance of the Czech Republic in international affairs was the receipt by the prince of the royal title in 1158. The emperor's supreme power over the Czech king was minimal. Relations developed in different ways - from alliances to military conflicts, which went with varying degrees of success. But in general, they were more like a relationship between partners than overlord and vassal. The Imperial Golden Bull of 1212 recognized the special status of the Czech Republic and the Holy Roman Empire: Czech representatives were required to attend only those Reichstags that convened near the borders of the kingdom; if the dynasty fades away, the Czechs have the right to elect a king themselves, without outside interference, and so on.
The descendants of Vratislav were already fighting for the throne. At the same time, the Czech Republic's fief relations with the empire had a number of features. Imperial laws were not in force in the Czech Republic, but the empire recognized as the rulers of the country only those persons who were elected by the combatants and who had real power.
The end of the XII century was marked by a period of decline not only of the Czech state, but also of the German Empire, which allowed the Czech state to maintain its independence.
In 1306, the Přemyslid dynasty died out, the Czech feudal lords elected John of Luxembourg (1310-1346) as king, obtaining a number of new privileges from him, including exemption from regular taxes. In 1317, the powers of the established at the end of the 13th century were expanded and strengthened. estate representation - the Sejm, in which the nobility, clergy and cities were represented.
