Bohemian artist Frantisek Kupka is the forefront mind behind the art form of Orphism. Orphism focuses on color and abstraction, similar to Cubism but also an “evolution” where abstract shapes are given precedence in contrast to solid, known geometric shapes. There are many examples of Orphism to see, spanning many years.
From the Brevnov Monastery to the modern-day Pilsner, the Czech people have been enjoying beer for over a thousand years. Known as the beer of tradition, Czech beer is ingrained into history itself. When beermaking was banned. the Brenov Monastery, as the first-ever Bohemian brewery, was exempt. Initially, after the ban on brewing ended, only noble families or homeowners were allowed to brew beer. It was in 1842 that the famous Pilsner was created.
Eliška Junková is the first woman to win the Grand Prix, in 1927. Even before, Junková was “Queen of the Steering Wheel,” a well-earned title that she worked towards since 1922. Her dedication to racing began with her dedication to her husband, Vincenc “Čenêk” Junek, whom she met at her job at the Prague Credit Bank.
After the death of Samo, there was uncertainty about the Czech and Moravian lands, but after the rise of Charlamange of the Frankish Kingdom, Moravians were able to recover. The princes of Moravia consolidated their power, and one in particular Mojmir I, rose beyond tribal institutions to establish Great Moravia. After Mojmir I's deposition, his nephew Rostislav became Louis the German's loyal vassal. In secret, however, Rostislav had ambitions beyond this.
Milada Horakova was an advocate for democracy, stuck between both the Nazis and Communists for her adult life. During the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, she resisted, helping emigrants escape and harboring fugitives of the occupiers. Although she faced torture and death from the Nazis, she not only survived but also continued her same fight, this time with the Soviets. Sadly, she was sentenced to death and executed, even when eminent individuals of the time demanded her release.
The Czech Republic National Theatre serves as a reminder of the strength, persistence, and culture of its people and their history. It is remembered and held as a national symbol of the Czech Renaissance, its importance in the arts, and the unification of the people towards one goal, regardless of other factors. This theatre has had a long and fascinating history that continues today.
The once egalitarian, agrarian society of Bohemia became ruled by the Hapsburg Dynasty, causing a regression in women’s rights until Christianity helped improve their lives. The National Revival brought the creation of Czechoslovakia and greater rights for women. When communism came, rights improved in some ways and did not in others. The change to a capitalistic democracy brought further changes.
A response to increased Germanization, the Czech National Revival revived Czech literature, language, history, and politics. Increased nationalism marked this period of cultural revival. The movement started before the 19th century with Czech intellectuals such as Josef Jungman and Josef Dobrovský becoming more discontent with the decrease in Czech culture, language, and national identity. Czech national identity also involved realism, rejecting the romanticism of the past, which was considered “anti-nationalist.” With the end of the Great War, the goals of the National Revival movement were successfully met.
Giacomo Girolamo Casanova, a man whose name has become synonymous with womanizing, spent his final years and composed a rich autobiography in Bohemia. His life began in Venice, Italy where he spent most of his childhood, including the discovery of romance, with the daughter of Gozzi. Due to the trouble Casanova ran into in Venice, he eventually settled in Prague, where he met Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Each spring, people in the Czech Republic celebrate many different events and holidays. The Ride of the Kings is one of the Czech Republic’s many unique customs. It is so deeply rooted in the history and culture of the area that it was placed on the UNESCO heritage list and has been painted, photographed, and filmed to preserve its tradition.
Food is one aspect of culture that is almost universally accessible. For many traveling, trying different cuisines, especially street foods, is an exciting part of visiting a new country. The Czech Republic has its own unique kitchen, and although the popularity of street foods is still growing, there are some dishes that are well-known in the country.
The circle is one of the most widespread and universal symbols. It commonly represents unity, wholeness, and infinity. In Slavic culture, it is especially important, often associated with the Sun, protection, and rebirth. Perhaps some of the most preserved examples of this symbol are the Slavic circle dances: kolo and khorovod.
In classic Hollywood films, beautiful women are swept off their feet by modern men who work hard to earn their place in society. The characters are well-defined, action-oriented tools of the narrative. But more than that, the actresses became celebrity icons of culture, parading in beautiful costumes and adorning their ornate homes with enviable things, including handmade imported Bohemian Crystal boudoir accessories and perfume bottles. You may recognize some of these paragons of classic American culture, including Liz Taylor, as they pose below with perfume bottles and crystal pieces on their vanities.
