The Medieval, Gothic and Natural Wonders of the Czech Republic
This month of March, we are travelling to the Czech Republic! Jean-Michel made various trips to the country for its incredible medieval and gothic architecture. Every year, the country attracts millions of visitors to take awe in its buildings and the central European cuisine!
Read below for our trip itinerary to this lovely country.
1. Child of Prague
This child of Prague is a statue of the infant Jesus. The Czech Republic is known for its dominant Catholic religion and so it's not surprising to see various churches, crucifixes, and catholic imagery around.
Many come to visit this infant statue to make prayers. They do this with the belief that it will help make their wishes come true. An interesting fact is that this statue was originally given as a wedding gift from a Spanish Princess to her royal Austrian cousin.
Photo source: Fotobanka ČTK, René Fluger
2. Astronomical Clock Strike
Within the Old Town Square in Prague, you will notice a crowd gathering every hour in front of a large medieval watch. They are there awaiting the mechanical clock to turn the hour which will reveal moving figurines. However, the most amazing thing about this clock is that it has kept time for the last six centuries.
It amazes many how a clock made during a time with low technology can maintain accurate time until the modern day. The original construction of the clock occurred in 1410, however, several repairs have been made throughout history. One of the repairs was made after the Nazis burnt the town hall and the clock with it. Many people came together to help restore the clock to like-new condition.
3. Theological Hall
You can find this opulent library inside of the Strahov Monastery. This isn’t an ordinary library because of the way it was decored, most notably for its paintwork. The library was designed by Giovanni Domenico Orsi, an Italian architect who took on the project in the 17th century.
If you look up, you will view an incredible realist collection of paintings. This was done in the 18th century by Siard Nosecký. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is definitely a place you cannot miss. Read a book there, or a bible, as most versions are available in its catalogue.
4. Town of Trebic
If you want to discover a lovey historical town to relax in, Trebic is the place for you. This town holds two UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include: the Jewish Quarter and the Basilica of St. Procopius. The town is also surrounded by an incredible unspoiled landscape worth exploring.
With great direct buses from Prague, this is a town you definitely should consider visiting. You’ll be happily surprised by the whimsical and colourful buildings. They will be the perfect focus items for your photographs.
Photo source: Rick Steeves Europe
5. Moravische Karst
This karst area is found between Olomouc and Brno. It hones an incredible collection of over 1000 caves and gorges. One of these caves includes the Punka Cave. When you visit, definitely take a boat trip along the Punka river inside the cave.
In the karst area, you will also need to visit the Macocha Abyss. Take a tour there to not only be guided through the 138-meter deep steep terrain but also to hear myths and scary tales. This is a magical natural wonder in the Czech Republic and a destination you surely must not miss.
Photo source: istock/dziurek
6. Old Town Prague
Walking through the Old Town in Prague, Czech Republic you will see stunning architecture. As Jean-Michel strolled through the town, he was washed over by the overwhelming history surrounding him. This real-life museum dates back to the 1200s when it was a marketplace. Honour your inner‑Bohemian and keep your wanderlust close to your heart in the Old Town Prague. Our ‘Old Town Silk Square Scarf’ is the result of the time that Jean-Michel spent in this wonderful place.
