Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
day triPS
Prague has plenty to keep a traveler busy, but don't overlook the
enjoyable day trips in the nearby Bohemian countryside. Within
an hour of Prague (in different directions), you'll find a rich medi-
eval town, a sobering concentration camp, and three grand castles.
Down-to-earth Kutná Hora was once home to the world's larg-
est silver mine; it's now known for its opulent cathedral, built with
riches from the mining bonanza. Terezín, a walled town, served as
an internment camp for Jews during World War II. The charm-
ing nearby town of Litoměřice offers an opportunity to reflect on
the camp. Two of the country's most popular castles—Konopiště
(better interior) and Karlštejn (better exterior)—give you a good
look at the Czech version of this European medieval architectural
form. Křivoklát Castle is one of the purest Gothic structures in the
country, and a less touristy alternative to the other two castles. The
village of Lány is a pilgrimage site for Czech patriots.
Kutná Hora
Kutná Hora (KOOT-nah HO-rah) is a refreshingly authentic
town of 20,000, on top of what was once Europe's largest silver
mine. In its heyday, the mine was so productive that Kutná Hora
was Bohemia's “second city” after Prague. The standard coinage
of much of Europe was minted here. By about 1700, the min-
ing and minting petered out, and the city slumbered. Once rich,
then ignored, Kutná Hora is now newly appreciated by tourists
looking for a handy side-trip from Prague. Visitors are charmed
by the wonderfully preserved town and its interesting sights: the
fine St. Barbara's Cathedral, the fascinating silver mine, and the
