Prague Castle
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Brno, CZ's second-largest city is the capital of South Moravia, and the gateway to wineries, rolling hills, hiking trails galore, and caves. Even the less prosperous or industrial cities have plenty to offer - Liberec, Ústànad Labem, Ostrava, Olomouc, and many others, each have a unique charm. Beer lovers will also find delight at the "real" Pilsener brewery in Plzen, rock climbers will love Srbsko, etc.
The Czech Republic short form in Czech, is a landlocked country in Central Europe and a member state of the European Union. The country has borders with Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and southwest, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east.
There are several centres of tourist activity: The historic city of Prague is the primary tourist attraction, and the city is also the most common point of entry for tourists visiting other parts of the country. Most other cities in the country attract significant numbers of tourists, but the spa towns such as Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně are particularly popular holiday destinations. Other popular tourist sites are the many castles and chateaux, such as those at Karlštejn, Konopiště and Český Krumlov. Away from the towns, areas as Český ráj, Šumava and the Krkonoše Mountains attract visitors seeking outdoor pursuits.
There are number of spa towns in the Czech Republic. Between the oldest and most visited are the spas of Karlovy Vary, Františkovy Lázně and Teplice.
The country is also famous for its love of puppetry and marionettes. The Pilsner style beer originated in western Bohemian city of Plzeň.
Czech cuisine has both influenced and been influenced by the cuisines of surrounding countries. Many of the fine cakes and pastries that are popular in Central Europe originated in the Czech lands.
Czech cuisine is marked by a strong emphasis on meat dishes. Pork is quite common, and beef and chicken are also popular. Goose, duck, rabbit and wild game are served. Fish is rare, with the occasional exception of fresh trout, and carp, which is served at Christmas.
The Národnà Divadlo or the National Theatre in Prague is known as the Alma Mater of Czech Opera, and as the national monument of Czech history and art.
Český Ráj: (Czech Paradise) Towering rock formations located north of Prague
Mutěnice Wine Region: Some of the best vineyards in the Czech Republic and totally off the well beaten tourist path.
Karlštejn Castle and the holy cave monastery: Hiking trip to the famous castle as well as an off the beaten track monastery
The Czech Republic is not a large country but has a rich and eventful history. From time immemorial Czechs, Germans, Jews and Slovaks, as well as Italian stonemasons and stucco workers, French tradesmen and deserters from Napoleon`s army have all been living and working here, and all influencing one another. For centuries they have jointly cultivated their land, creating works, the majority of which still command our respect and admiration today. It is thanks to their inventiveness and skill that this small country is graced with hundreds of ancient castles, monasteries and stately chateaux, and even entire towns that give the impression of comprehensive artifacts.
| Major Cities in Czech Republic: |
 Prague
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Prague Castle
National Theatre in Prague | photo by: Patrick-Emil Zörner
