- Colonnades
- Museum life in Karlovy Vary
- Architectural landmarks
- Natural objects
- Festivals and Holidays
Karlovy Vary has long been associated among Russian tourists with wellness treatments, a serene atmosphere and amazing architecture. The aristocracy and representatives of the royal family flocked to this city for the purpose of treatment and recreation. If you decide to go to Karlovy Vary, then you don't have to worry about your vacation, as there are always interesting places to go.
Colonnades
These buildings are the hallmark of the city, since each of them was built according to an individual project and is a work of art. Colonnades are located in different parts of Karlovy Vary, but most of them are concentrated in the center. Among the most famous buildings of this type are:
- The mill colonnade, built in the 19th century in the traditional neo-renaissance style. The external facade is made of 23 columns decorated with beautiful bas-reliefs. Inside there are mineral springs, where the water temperature is kept at + 45-67 degrees throughout the year.
- Garden colonnade, built at the initiative of architects G. Helmer and F. Fellner at the end of the 19th century. The structure is distinguished by white stone lace trim and spacious interior space. Miniature fountains are installed along the colonnade, from where healing water gushes.
- Market Colonnade, originally conceived as a temporary wooden structure. Despite its durability, the building stood for over 100 years, and at the end of the 20th century it was reconstructed. Thanks to this, residents and guests of the city have the opportunity to enjoy not only its new look, but also the thermal springs "Market" and "Charles IV".
- The castle colonnade is considered the most modern in Karlovy Vary, as it was built at the beginning of the 20th century in the Art Nouveau style. For this purpose, the Viennese master F. Oman, a recognized master of his craft, was specially invited. As a result, the colonnade turned out to be elegant and luxurious at the same time. Only those tourists who have a rest on the territory of the Zamkovy Lazni sanatorium are allowed inside the building. This fact is explained by the fact that the colonnade was repaired at the expense of the sanatorium.
Museum life in Karlovy Vary
History buffs are advised to visit the museums scattered throughout the city. They are diverse in topics, so it will be doubly interesting for you to find out useful information about the cultural heritage of the Czech Republic. Be sure to include the following museums in your travel program:
- Museum of local lore, consisting of three buildings, united by a common corridor. The main building was built in 1865 thanks to the efforts of the Austrian doctor J. V. von Löschner. He was an outstanding personality in his field and for more than 10 years he had his own collection of unique exhibits. In the halls of the museum there is a rich exposition of objects of art, antiquity, everyday life, documents and geological finds.
- The Jan Becher Museum, which quickly gained popularity due to the worldwide distribution of the Becherovka drink. In Karlovy Vary, this elixir has a special attitude: it is used in the preparation of various cocktails and even as a medicine. The famous becherevka was created by the doctor Jan Becher, and the museum named after him was opened in 1992. Today in the museum you can see the production process of the drink, get acquainted with its history, and also taste.
- The Museum of Glass, the basis of the exposition is made up of exquisite Bohemian glassware produced at the Moser plant. The excursion includes acquaintance with all stages of making products from such a fragile material and a walk through the halls where magnificent exhibits are located. There is a gift shop on the ground floor of the building.
Architectural landmarks
Among the places worth visiting, it is worth noting the many churches, cathedrals, churches and towers created in different periods of the existence of Karlovy Vary. Observation towers stand apart from other architectural objects, from which the picturesque landscape of the city opens.
The Diana Tower, located since 1914 on a hill called "Friendship", delights visitors with its amazing panoramic views. A walking path leads to the tower, along which you can walk at a leisurely pace. In addition, tourists are encouraged to climb to the attractions by funicular, while enjoying the natural beauty at the same time.
Goethe Tower is an example of Romanesque architecture. It was built at the end of the 19th century in the classic Romanesque style. The appearance of the building is especially impressive with gabled roofs, arched windows and a staircase consisting of 164 steps leading to the observation deck. An interesting fact is that in 1945 the tower was named in honor of I. V. Stalin, after which it was renamed in the 60s of the 20th century.
Every tourist knows the castle tower in the city center, as it houses a famous restaurant of national Czech cuisine. The construction of the landmark dates back to the reign of Charles IV. Initially, the tower functioned as a hunting lodge, but later it was used for balls, holidays and receptions.
The Church of St. Mary Magdalene appeared in the city in the 15th century and belonged to the Order of the Crusaders. The building was erected in the Renaissance style, which is considered the current trend of that era. Subsequently, the cathedral was destroyed several times due to fires and wars. Its final reconstruction was completed in 1860, after which the temple was transformed and became an example of Gothic architecture.
The Peter and Paul Church attracts the attention of tourists due to its impeccable appearance and the fact that the cathedral is the only functioning Orthodox church in the city. Its construction took place in the 19th century, when the famous architect D. Ukhtomsky presented his project to the local authorities. In 1916, the church was closed due to the hostilities taking place in Karlovy Vary. In 1980, the cathedral was completely restored and is still maintained in excellent condition.
Natural objects
The city embankment is decorated with amazing Dvořák gardens, named after the talented composer Antonín Dvořák. He loved to visit Karlovy Vary and meet in the bosom of nature with music critics and publishers.
The creation of the gardens dates back to the late 19th century, when a professional gardener Jan Haman planted several maples, oaks and chestnuts. According to Jan's idea, the territory of the garden was to be planted with trees of different types. Soon, an artificial pond appeared in the center of the park area, near which a statue of a young girl was installed.
Currently, in the gardens you can not only escape from the bustle of the city, but also play frisbee, tennis, badminton, and also ask artists to paint your portrait.
Not far from Karlovy Vary, there is a picturesque canyon framed by the Ohře River. Around the river rise the Svatoš Rocks, recognized as a specially protected natural site in the Czech Republic. Each rock creates bizarre shapes that, under a certain refraction of the sun's ray, look like a wondrous animal or a human figure. It is this property that the rocks are famous for among those who come to see them.
In the center of the city there is a small rock called "Deer Jump". At the top of the cliff in 1851, August Kiss erected a metal monument in the form of a chamois, which existed until 1984, when vandals destroyed it. Two years later, the sculptor Janusz Kotek erected a new bronze monument depicting the figure of a deer, which has become a kind of symbol of the city. An observation deck was built next to the statue, from where the city is viewed from a bird's eye view.
Festivals and Holidays
It is pleasant to have a rest in Karlovy Vary at any time of the year, as you will have a great opportunity to see the cultural life of the country and get to know more about national customs.
In winter, the city prepares to celebrate Christmas and New Years. All streets are lit up with multi-colored illumination, houses are being decorated and fir trees are being installed. Fairy-tale characters roam everywhere inviting tourists to take part in the New Year's carnival.
In January, there are festivals dedicated to classical music and ballroom dancing. Festival organizers buy out historical buildings and mansions on the basis of which events are held. Visiting one of them is a chance to plunge into the festive atmosphere and feel Czech hospitality.
In the spring, representatives of the European aristocracy come to Karlovy Vary, who for three days organize horse races, a spring ball, as well as outdoor meetings. You can get to such an event by strictly observing the dress code. Therefore, it is worth worrying about your wardrobe in advance.
May marks the opening of the tourist season, accompanied by fairs, consecration of thermal springs, massive sales of souvenirs, performances by street musicians and the best creative teams of the city.
In summer, such large-scale events as rowing sports competitions are held, where everyone can try their hand at agility and strength. According to the results of the competition, the winners are announced and diplomas are awarded.
In the middle of summer, the annual Film Festival begins in Karlovy Vary, which attracts many celebrities of modern cinema. There are mini-cinemas throughout the city that show award-winning films.
There will also be plenty to do in autumn as the city hosts a folklore, jazz music and tourism festival.
