CZECH REPUBLIC

The Czech Republic located in Central Europe. It comprises the historical territory of Bohemia and Moravia along with the southern trip of Silezia. A region of rolling hills and mountains, Bohemia is dominated by the national capital, Prague. History always close at hand int he country, where stunning castles such as Karlštejn and manor houses dot the landscape and medieval town centres abound. As the kingdom of Bohemia, it reached its zenith of wealth and power during the 13th and 14th centuries. Prague, with the oldest university north of Alps (Charles University, 1348), functioned as a royal and imperial capital. Under the reign of Emperor Charles IV int he second half of the 14th century, the Bohemian Kingdom become the center of the Holy Empire, with Prague its capital, ushering int he kingdom’s golden era. Under his reign, royal investment into Czech institutions, culture, education and infrastructure received royal patronage. Among some of those gifted with Charles IV’s financial support were Prague’s Charles Bridge, Charles University, St. Vitus Cathedral, Karlštejn Castle and the foundation of the city of Karlovy Vary.

More information: www.czech.cz / www.czechtourism.com