AuthorMartin Hladík

Salvadori’s monitor lizards command respect, among other things, with their massive heads and strong jaws, equipped with long teeth. Their slender bodies are decorated with a distinctive black-and-yellow pattern. Photo Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo

The Prague Zoo has recently welcomed Salvadorian monitor lizards. A young couple named Salva and Dorian have taken up residence in the Large Turtle Pavilion, which until recently was inhabited by adolescent Komodo dragons. After 17 years, the giant terrarium has returned to its original purpose and has been transformed into a densely green New Guinean rainforest. This reptile species, which is considered the longest lizard on the planet, is active during the day, so visitors have the opportunity to observe the new monitor lizards throughout the entire opening hours of the Prague Zoo.

Salvadori’s monitor lizards spend most of their lives in the treetops, where they move with surprising agility. Photo Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo

“Salvadori’s monitor lizards are often cited as the longest lizards in the world. They could even surpass Komodo dragons in length, but the proportions of these slender tree lizards with a very long tail significantly reduce the impression of their massiveness. The traditional 470 cm has not yet been reliably documented, and until that happens, we will be content with stating their length with a more modest, although equally impressive 250 centimeters,” says Petr Velenský, curator of reptiles at Prague Zoo.

Salvadori’s monitor lizards lurk among the branches for prey and seize it with a quick lunge. They mainly hunt smaller mammals and birds, but they also do not disdain carrion or bird eggs. Photo Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo

The one-year-old cubs of the future tree giants arrived from Fuengirola, Spain, but their total journey was much longer. The resumption of breeding at Prague Zoo is part of the plan of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Reptile Advisory Group (EAZA RTAG) to build a viable European population of this species. Not only Prague Zoo and Bioparc Fuengirola, but also zoos in Marwell, England, and Düsseldorf, Germany, joined forces to organize the transport of nine cubs from the USA, from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha. A European quarantine was held in Spain, and the monitor lizards traveled to their final destinations during March.

“In American farms, Salvadori monitor lizards are more common than in European ones. The arrival of young individuals from the United States is a welcome and important revival of the genetics of local individuals in human care,” explains Velenský.

The very long tail is probably the most distinctive attribute of Salvadori’s monitor lizards. Photo Petr Hamerník, Prague Zoo

Although the Salvadori monitor lizard is not considered an endangered species, its population faces threats associated with the destruction of rainforests and the expansion of plantations in New Guinea. Another risk factor is hunting for meat and the illegal trade in animals. This species is still rather rare in zoos, and therefore, in addition to protection, human-assisted breeding also contributes to a better understanding of its biology and ecology.

UN Tourism and the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation of Lithuania have agreed on a shared vision for tourism development in the country for the period 2025–2027. In addition to accelerating digital transformation, innovation, and investments in the sector, the strengthened partnership will also focus on governance and destination management to ensure the continued growth of Lithuanian tourism.

The collaborative plans were set out during an official visit to Vilnius by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, as he met with Minister of the Economy and Innovation Lukas Savickas, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Julius Pranevičius, members of parliament, and key tourism stakeholders.

“Lithuania has demonstrated remarkable resilience and vision,” said Secretary-General Pololikashvili. “The country’s leadership in innovation and inclusivity sets a strong example for the region and beyond. Our cooperation reflects the shared commitment to building a smarter, more sustainable, and more competitive tourism sector.”

You can read more here: https://www.unwto.org/news/un-tourism-and-lithuania-partner-to-boost-innovation-and-visibility?utm_source=news&utm_medium=crm

Photo: HZS Olomouckého kraje

Czech authorities declared a state of emergency near Hustopeče nad Bečvou on February 28 following a train crash that led to the spread of 1,000 tons of toxic benzene. Olomouc Governor Ladislav Okleštěk stated that the declaration was necessary to expedite the cleanup of the affected soil and water. But what could have been done better in dealing with the disaster?

Czech Environment Minister Petr Hladik commented that the situation at the accident site was worsening quickly.

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Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Copernicus/European Union Space Programme

As the ice on the Lipno Reservoir in South Bohemia has gradually melted over the past few weeks, satellite images have revealed an unexpected sight. The original meander of the Vltava River, known as the “Heart of the Vltava,” has begun to reappear beneath the receding ice, offering a rare glimpse of the river’s natural shape.

The Vltava, often referred to as the Czech national river, is the longest river in Czechia, stretching about 430 kilometres from its spring to its confluence with the Elbe.

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Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration/Wikimedia Commons, public domain

In February and March 1945, the Americans fought a bloody battle for the small Pacific island of Iwo Jima. The island of less than thirty square miles, was strategically located, a crucial “stepping stone” on the way to mainland Japan and securing overall victory in World War II. A number of our compatriots fought in the ranks of the American troops and helped make history.

You have probably seen the iconic photo of the Marines raising the American flag on Iwo Jima, even if you’re not very interested in World War II history.

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Photo: Jolana Nováková, Czech Radio

Soaring high above Prague’s rooftops, the Žižkov Television Tower is impossible to miss—and just as impossible to categorize. A product of late-communist engineering, this peculiar structure has been called everything from an eyesore to a masterpiece of high-tech design. But what many visitors don’t realize is that inside one of its iconic pods, perched 70 meters above ground, lies one of the city’s most exclusive places to spend the night.

Constructed between 1985 and 1992, the Žižkov TV Tower was originally built to improve broadcast signals in Prague.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Czechia, within the framework of the EU’s Ukraine Facility instrument, is investing 100 million euros (2.

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Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Vít Pohanka, Radio Prague International

Národní is a Czech adjective that translates to ‘national’. Just like in English, underlying the adjective národní is the Czech word for ‘nation’, národ.

English gets the words nation and national from Latin.

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Photo: Kristýna Maková, Radio Prague International

Every year, on May 1st — the Czech equivalent of Valentine’s Day — couples flock to Prague’s Petřín Hill to kiss beneath the statue of Czech romantic poet Karel Hynek Mácha, author of the iconic epic poem Máj. However, after more than a century, the historic monument is in need of restoration. To support the effort, the Prague City Gallery has launched a public campaign aiming to raise CZK 250,000. I discussed the initiative with Magdalena Juříková, head of the Prague City Gallery.

When was the statue of Karel Hynek Mácha created, and who was involved in its creation?.

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Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: Jiří Hofman, Czech Radio

Legiovlak created by the Czechoslovak Legionary Community, is a faithful replica of a legionary train from WWI, when the Czechoslovak Legions were engaged in war operations on the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia. Over the past ten years, it has attracted over one million visitors.

Best described as a travelling exhibition about Czechoslovak Legionaries in World War I, Legiovlak annually hits the rails in April making stops at towns and cities around the country.

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Author: Daniela Lazarová

Illustration photo: René Volfík, Czech Radio

Unmanned aerial systems have become central to today’s battlefields, far beyond what many European armies expected. General Roman Hyťha, Director of the Armed Forces Intelligence Division at the General Staff, says the Czech military must adapt quickly—or risk falling behind.

Drones have become omnipresent in the war in Ukraine—used by everyone from small tactical units to top-level commanders.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

In the next episode of our series Science Without Borders, we go to Vienna to talk to Zlata Tabachová on how she uses mathematics and physics to rethink how the fundamental building blocks of society function.

Imagine a world where data helps us solve global challenges like climate change and food waste.

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Author: Barbora Navrátilová, Vít Pohanka

Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International

As part of our series on women in typically male-dominated professions, we spoke to Gabriela Jílková, one of Czechia’s best racing drivers and currently a development driver for Porsche’s Formula E team. She follows in the footsteps of Eliška Junková, the first woman in history to win a Grand Prix event.

Women in motorsport may not be as visible as men, but they can share the same love for the speed, the noise and the emotions of racing.

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Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, public domain

The name ‘Casanova’ will most likely conjure up an image of an Italian adventurer, having numerous affairs with many women and getting into trouble with the law, not an image of a librarian in northern Bohemia. Yet this is in fact how the famous Venetian Giacomo Casanova ended up and lived out his final years.

To understand how the adventurer became the librarian, and to mark 300 years since Casanova’s birth on April 2nd 1725, Danny Bate spoke to Leo Damrosch, the Ernest Bernbaum Professor of Literature at Harvard University Emeritus, and author of Adventurer, a 2022 biography of Casanova.

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Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Ministry of Transport of the Czech Republic

What does it feel like to float in zero gravity? Thanks to a unique Czech project, 26 students got to find out—on board a specially modified Airbus A310 that performed a series of parabolic maneuvers over Central Europe.

The flight, led by astronaut-in-training Aleš Svoboda and joined by scientists, educators, and public figures, was designed not only to simulate the conditions of space but also to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Luboš Pavlíček, ČTK

The animals competed in several disciplines, trained and accompanied by their owners. Rabbit jumping originated in Sweden thirty years ago and has gradually gained great popularity. Czechia is currently one of Europe’s superpowers in this sport.

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Photo: Czech Television

Director Martin Dušek’s latest documentary looks at the issue of taste, primarily when it comes to how Czechs handle home construction/renovation and the urban landscape. A DIY approach is deeply ingrained and many refuse to hire architects, regarding their services – says a speaker in the film – as something “extra”. I caught up with Dušek shortly after producer Czech Television broadcast the film, which is called Journey to Disfantasy.

As in some of your previous documentaries, you yourself are an active kind of character in your new film? What is the appeal of that approach, of putting yourself front and centre?.

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Author: Ian Willoughby

Photo: Zdeněk Trnka, Czech Radio

The next stage of the reconstruction of the town’s House of Culture is taking place in Ostrov near Karlovy Vary. A group of North Bohemian restorers is dismantling unique glass chandeliers from the period of socialist realism. The dismantled luminaires will be transported to the restoration workshops in Nový Bor, where they will undergo thorough renovation.

The chandeliers, designed by architect Jaroslav Kraus, have had a long and turbulent history, during which they have survived numerous changes in political leadership but have also suffered significant damage.

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Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: eSbírky, National Museum in Prague – Historické muzeum, Muzeum dělnického hnutí, CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED

There was a time when telegrams were the pinnacle of modern communication. Their era definitively ended on March 31, 2010, when the very last telegram was sent on the territory of the Czech Republic. This historical artefact is now exhibited in the Pelhřimov Museum of Records and Curiosities.

The author of the last message was student Martin Jonáš, who sent the telegram shortly before midnight.

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In 2024, Czech veterinarians issued passports for around 72,000 dogs, cats, and ferrets, maintaining a steady level compared to 2023.

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Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo repro: Jaromír Marek, ‘Interhelpo’

Czechast with Jaromír Marek, journalist and author who produced a TV documentary and a whole book about a story that takes us far from Central Europe—deep into the heart of Soviet Central Asia, to what is today Kyrgyzstan.

At the end of March of 1925, nearly exactly a hundred years ago that I am recording this episode, hundreds of Czechoslovak men and women packed up their lives and joined a bold, utopian project conceived by the Communist Party.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Klára Stejskalová, Radio Prague International

To get to know the country’s past, while also enjoying a nice day out in pretty surroundings, visiting a Czech castle is a good way to spend time in Czechia – whether you’re here for the first time, or are a long-term resident in search of new weekend plans. So, as Czechia’s historical attractions start to open again for their annual season, here’s our list of top five castles and chateaus that you can easily get to from Prague.

Czechia is a land rich in history, and its many castles are witnesses to that fact.

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Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Vít Pohanka, Radio Prague International

Forget chalkboards and textbooks. In the heart of the Czech Republic, a glowing globe powered by satellite data is transforming science education—one orbit at a time. Using a high-tech globe and real-time data from space, a group of educators in Žatec are helping to see the planet—and science itself—in a whole new way.

Near the historical center of the Czech town of Žatec, known more for hops than for high-tech science, something very interesting is happening.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

On the occasion of the Tunisian National Day, H.E Mrs. Yorsa Souiden, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia in the Czech Republic, hosted an Iftar reception, with special tradition Tunisian food at her beautiful Residence in Prague.

The previous President, Mr. Vaclav Klaus, and his spouse, and Mr. Jiri Kozak – 1st Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, were the honored guests.

Watch the video with the speeches of H.E Mrs. Yorsa Souiden, Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia in the Czech Republic, and Mr. Jiri Kozak – 1^st Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Award Ceremony, and part of the cultural event.

Happy National Day Republic of Tunisia

عيد وطني سعيد للجمهورية التونسية

eid wataniun saeid liljumhuriat altuwnusia

On the occasion of the National Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E. Ms. Ayesha Ali – The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and her spousehost a reception at the beautiful Kaiserstejnsky Palac in Prague.

Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored guest.

Watch the video with the speeches of H.E. Ms. Ayesha Ali – The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and Mr. Jan Marian – the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.

Happy National Day Pakistan

پاکستان کا قومی دن مبارک ہو۔

pakistan ka qaumi dan mubark ho.

The collection inspired by Japanese workwear includes a complete set of clothing for the entire staff of the Czech pavilion at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. In these outfits, it will be possible to meet hostesses, restaurant staff, and other staff working in the pavilion. The collection consists of a bomber jacket, shirt, T-shirt, trousers, and apron, complemented by a special silhouette of the Prestige x Jan sneaker and a scarf with the motif of René, the pavilion mascot. It is then colored according to its function – light sand is for hostesses and visitors’ guides (permanent exhibition), and blue is for the gastronomic operation.

“The theme of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025 is Talent and Creativity for Life. I am very happy that we can collaborate with talented professionals from many areas, such as culture, design, art, F&B, or business, to promote the Czech Republic, who have a world reputation and help us present the Czech Republic more than 10,000 kilometers from home. One of such great talented people is Jan Černý, whom I would like to thank very much for the successful design of the uniforms that the staff of the Czech pavilion will wear every day,”comments directly from Osaka, Commissioner General of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025 Ondřej Soška, adding: “Although I told Honza that I would like to follow up on the Olympic collection and Paris and create a similar stir with something extravagant, he did it his own way again. And I am happy that, the uniforms go perfectly with the Japanese environment, respect Japanese minimalism, and are very original at the same time. They also subtly combine the elements that we use for our presentation – the mascot René, the designation of Czech Republic and Bystrém were observed, and the linden leaf from our logo, which refers to our national symbols, cut glass and Japanese origami, cannot be missed,”

Jan Černý approached the design of the collection comprehensively and put together a set that will serve employees in various weather and temperatures that will change in Japan during the six-month EXPO. The entire collection is perfectly combinable, significantly different, and recognizable among other visitors, mainly thanks to its uniform color and large print. Czech Republic on the back.

Thanks to the main inspiration of the collection, which is a dialogue between iconic Czech overalls and Japanese workwear culture, the main material is cotton, which is treated with special enzymes during washing to make it light and comfortable. The Prestige x Jan sneakers made of cognac-colored leather have perforations on the inside of the shoe to ensure ventilation even in higher temperatures.

“During my research, where I was dealing with the Czech culture of dressing, I came across an interesting parallel between our and Japanese culture. I discovered how close our beloved and hated overalls are to Japanese workwear (fashion inspired by workwear, which is very much rooted in the clothing culture in Japan). So, I let these two styles of workwear communicate and speak in my designs. This resulted in these uniforms, which may be reminiscent of Otík’s overalls from the movie My Little Village, the Center. However, when we place them in the international environment of the Expo in Osaka, this reference suddenly disappears, and the workwear silhouettes of my collection take on a completely different meaning. And that is one of the factors that I really enjoy about fashion, how much a change of environment and circumstances can change the meaning of the clothing itself,” summarizes the main inspiration for the collection, founder and creative director of the Jan Société brand Jan Černý.

When examining the collection more closely, it is impossible to miss the embroidered decorations on the chest, which refer to the much-needed pockets on work clothes. Here, however, they are elevated to the status of decor by the fact that the pockets are only slightly embroidered in their silhouettes. The garment is not decorated with artificial ornaments, but with elements that naturally belong to it. On the back, you will find the signature Jan label on all clothing items and also a large inscription Czechia, so we will be recognizable around the Expo area even from a great distance.

The silhouettes are oversized, the same for women and men, and are unexpectedly minimalist compared to Jan’s previous collections. “There’s a reason for that – it’s the focus on muted colors and clean silhouettes that can set us apart from other pavilions, which often choose very distinctively colorful and patterned outfits. Moreover, the Japanese almost never wear patterns, they rely on minimalism and loose silhouettes, and that’s why this Jan Société collection could be a hit,” adds Jan Černý .

The uniform collection is washed and feels human, as if someone has worn them before. Another strong connection to inspiration can be seen in the design of the apron, which, thanks to the cutout at the bottom, resembles the iconic dungarees .

“I am happy that with this collection I can destroy the completely outdated ideas about hostesses at business events, where everyone immediately imagines a young lady in heels and a skimpy mini dress, standing there as a victim at a table for the attention of businessmen. The world really doesn’t work like that anymore, and I myself don’t accept that women should be presented in these inferior roles. At the same time, such an outfit would not only be inappropriate on a global scale, and especially in Japan, but it wouldn’t impress anyone either – the Japanese almost never wear tight clothes, they enjoy the freedom of oversized silhouettes and loose cuts. I think that thanks to the staff dressed in this way, we can also attract visitors and become a memorable pavilion,” adds Jan Černý.

In addition to the collection for the pavilion staff, Jan Černý also designed suits and costumes for the pavilion management. The Jan Société brand is also preparing for Osaka with its own presentation in the form of a conceptual fashion show.

About Jan Černý

Jan Černý is a Czech designer who creates contemporary men’s and genderless fashion with his brand Jan Société . He has already achieved great success at a young age. He completed an internship under the late designer Virgil Abloh at the Louis Vuitton atelier in Paris, was the creative director of the Czech brand Kara , was ranked in the Forbes 30 under 30 list, dressed celebrities such as Barbora Strýcová , Calin , Ben Cristovao and is part of the Czech young cultural scene that shapes the style of the younger generation.

In 2024, he designed the inaugural Olympic collection for Czech athletes, which was ranked among the three best collections in the world by Time magazine thanks to its modern aesthetics and innovative approach.

You can read more about the Czech Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, in our magazine : https://www.czechleaders.com/e-magazines/spring2025-issue/

Photo: Tomáš Fongus, Office of the President of the Republic

Czech President Petr Pavel is convinced that Czech troops should be part of the peacekeeping force in Ukraine after a peace agreement is reached. He said this during an interview with European Pravda, which was published on Saturday. The president also commented on the need to be pragmatic about Ukraine’s security concerns and the ways to think about guaranteeing long-term peace.

In the interview with European Pravda, President Pavel said that Czechia is already participating in the so-called “Coalition of the Willing”—a group of countries that are discussing a possible peacekeeping force on the ground in Ukraine after a full ceasefire is agreed upon.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Kateřina Cibulka, Czech Radio

Czech President Petr Pavel recently visited Ukraine. While there, he said that Czechia is ready to provide troops to Ukraine in case that a full ceasefire is agreed upon between Russia and Ukraine. The president also said that it’s likely that Ukraine will have to, at least temporarily, give up Russian-occupied territories to the invaders because of the logistical impossibility of recapturing them at this stage of the war. So, I sat down with Petr Kolář, advisor to Pavel, and former Czech ambassador to the US and Russia, to reflect on these comments and gauge his overall sense of what went wrong with EU-Russia relations.

So, you were Czech ambassador to the US from 2005 to 2010 and then to Russia from 2010 to 2012.

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Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Klára Škodová, Czech Radio

ADONXS, a young Slovak musician living in Prague, will represent the Czech Republic at the 69th Eurovision Song Contest. His entry ‘Kiss Kiss Goodbye’ is about “how love drives and shapes us—but so does its absence,” ADONXS says.

Adam Pavlovčin, aka ADONXS, grew up listening to music legends such as Queen, Depeche Mode, Elton John and Prince, and has cited Troye Sivan, Mahmood, AURORA and Conan Gray as some of his current influences.

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Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz

The historic “U Hybernů” building near Prague’s Powder Tower has been sold in an electronic auction for 447 million Czech crowns. According to the Office for Government Representation in Property Affairs (ÚZSVM), which organized the sale, it was the second most lucrative property transaction in the office’s history.

The buyer was not officially named by the authorities.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Petr Švancara, ČTK

Thousands of people attended the annual Almond and Wine Festival in the largest almond orchard in Central Europe near the town of Hustopeče at the weekend. Visitors could sample unusual dishes such as almond sausages, almond ice cream or almond beer.

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Photo: Martin Balucha, Czech Radio

The Czech film Waves (“Vlny”), about the events of the Prague Spring, the invasion of the Warsaw Pact troops, and the broadcasting of Czechoslovak Radio in 1967 and 1968, was released in French cinemas. Unlike the version shown in Czechia, the French version of the film is shorter, and cinemas are screening it under the title “Radio Prague—Waves of Revolution”. But why?

“We were students at the time.

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Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Illustrative photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz

An in-depth report on the impacts of the ongoing war in Ukraine on the mental health of soldiers and civilians has been published by three Czech researchers. One of the team, the journalist, photographer and researcher Jiří Pasz, spoke to Danny Bate about the reasons behind the study and its findings.

Your report focuses on the effects of the war in Ukraine on mental health.

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Author: Danny Bate

Photo: René Volfík, iROZHLAS.cz

Slovakia this week confirmed foot-and-mouth disease at a fourth farm in the southern parts of the country. The highly contagious disease, for which there is no cure, spread there from Hungary where it appeared several weeks ago. Strict veterinary measures are in place in Czechia, which has managed to avoid the disease for half a century.

Czech farmers are scrambling to secure their livestock in the face of what could wipe them out in one fell swoop.

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Author: Daniela Lazarová

Photo: Magdalena Hrozínková, Radio Prague International

Can a woman be ordained a priest? In the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren, this has been a reality since 1953. Since then, more than 200 women have been ordained in the largest Protestant church in Bohemia. Today, women pastors make up about 30% of the Protestant clergy. They include single, married, and divorced women, both with and without children. One of them is Alexandra Jacobea, pastor of the Evangelical congregation in Dejvice, Prague.

Alexandra Jacobea is 40 years old and hails from Brno.

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Author: Magdalena Hrozínková, Ruth Fraňková

Photo: Jolana Nováková, Czech Radio

The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched the very first Diplomacy Week. It is a nationwide initiative designed to give students and the public a closer look at the work of Czech and international diplomats. The event is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about diplomacy, foster interest in international relations, and encourage young people to consider careers in foreign service.

Dozens of schools across the country are participating in this inaugural edition, alongside numerous foreign embassies based in Prague, Czech embassies abroad, and non-governmental partners.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Ája Bufka, Radio Prague International

From early explorers to Cold War émigrés, Czechs have made a lasting impact on American society. Understanding the role of Czech communities abroad is an essential part of how the country represents itself to the world.

Dr.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: 4M Tactical

A special cloak that can make soldiers invisible to enemy drones has been hailed as a “game changer”. Invented and manufactured by Czech experts, the cloak continues to be used by special units of the Ukrainian army.

4M Systems is a manufacturing company based in western Prague, which is a producing a piece of specialist kit much sought after by Ukrainian soldiers.

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Author: Danny Bate, Ľubomír Smatana

Photo: Sam Moghadam, Unsplash, Unsplash License

The number of people complaining about botched procedures in plastic surgery conducted by underqualified or fake doctors is increasing. Experts are ringing alarm bells and the Ministry of Health has proposed a draft law that would tighten the rules on who can offer aesthetic medicine in the Czech Republic.

Last year 60 clients contacted the Society of Aesthetic and Laser Medicine to complain about botched procedures.

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Author: Daniela Lazarová

Photo: Festival One World

As a part of the ongoing One World documentary festival that took place in Prague last week and is scheduled to run in Czech cities until April 27th, I had the opportunity to interview Victoria Mapplebeck, an award-winning director and artist recognized by BAFTA. She showcased her documentary “Motherboard” at the festival.

Long before vlogging became a cultural phenomenon, Victoria was documenting her experiences as a single mother with her camera and iPhone.

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In Vienna, Jakub Dokulil is developing a cutting-edge microscope that tracks molecular movement in real time. For him, science is both an adventure and a team effort. He is a master’s student at the University of Vienna and a researcher at the Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), where he’s building a MINFLUX microscope. This state-of-the-art device allows scientists to observe processes inside living cells with nanometer and millisecond precision.

In the interview, Jakub shares how a childhood passion for physics led him from school competitions to international science projects.

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Author: Barbora Navrátilová, Vít Pohanka

Photo: David Ferencik

Spring is right around the corner, which means a lot more of us will be visiting cafes for a quick coffee to go or to sit on one of the many patios around Prague. Whether you’re here just for a weekend visit or have lived in Czechia’s capital for a while, these cafes are for you. Each is different, but they share one thing in common: a love for quality coffee you will think fondly back on in the months to come. So, here are my five favorite cafes in the city, whenever I need a place to sit down with a book, write an article, or just share a conversation with dear friends.

Nestled just on the outskirts of Vinohrady, this cafe combines a decorated interior adorned by lively colors and art, with a safe set of snacks and drink choices, including some delicious coffee.

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Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Dominik Jůn, Radio Prague International

Cult British science fiction comedy series Red Dwarf has a surprisingly large number of fans in the Czech Republic. Trpaslicon – adapted from the Czech name for the show, Červený trpaslík – is an annual Prague festival that has been running since 2003 and which celebrates not only Red Dwarf but all things Britcom and Brit sci-fi. Dominik Jůn went to visit.

One Saturday in March a local school in Prague’s Chodov district was converted into a kind of convention centre hosting Trpaslicon 2025, celebrating the British television series Red Dwarf and more.

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Author: Dominik Jůn

Illustration photo: Gerd Altmann, Pixabay, Pixabay License

Děkuji is among the first words that Czech learners tend to pick up. After all, we all want to be polite! Děkovat means ‘to thank’, and it has an associated noun, dík ‘thanks’.

At a very early point in Czech’s history, these words would have contained an extra nasal sound.

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Photo: František Nesvadba, ČTK

Bohuslav Fuchs was a leading figure in Czechoslovak functionalism and one of the most important architects of the 20th century, not only in Czechia but also in Europe. His name is permanently inscribed not only in the history of Czech modern architecture but, more importantly, in the history of the city of Brno.

This year marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of this key figure, whose work defined the style and spirit of the interwar avant-garde.

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Photo: Post Bellum

Legendary journalist Petr Brod remembers working fo Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in Munich and Prague at times, when it often seemed that Communism is here to stay.

The US federal government has announced it will end its funding of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

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Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International

The Ministry of Culture is supporting the digitization of close to one hundred historical collections in museums and heritage sites around the country. Thanks to the subsidy, unique online museum collections are now available on the eSbirky.cz website.

Digitizing a museum’s collection increases access to it, aids the preservation of items, makes them more searchable and linkable and enables the public to view items that are so valuable that they are rarely put on display and the public only gets to see copies.

See more here.

Author: Daniela Lazarová, Eva Kézrová

Photo: Czech Television

Venus hair fern is usually found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing on palm trees and in rainforests. But—much to the surprise of botanists—it has also taken root in the 14th-century underground tunnels of Znojmo, a town in South Moravia. Despite its unnatural surroundings, the plant is not only surviving—it’s thriving.

The Znojmo underground, one of Central Europe’s largest labyrinths, stretches up to 25 kilometres.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

The Ambassador of the Slovak Republic in the Czech Republic, H.E. Ms. Ingrid Brockova, hosted a farewell reception at her beautiful residence.

Guest of honor was Mr. Petr Pavel – the President of the Czech Republic. and the First Lady, Mrs. Eva Pavlova.

Mr. Jan Lipavský – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Mr. Mikuláš Bek – Minister of Education, Youth and Sport of the Czech Republic, Ambassadors, Members of the Senate and the Parliament, deputy ministers and friends of Slovakia and the Ambassador.

Watch the video  ( in Czech & English) with the speeches of H.E. Ms. Ingrid Brockova – Ambassador of the Slovak Republic, Mr. Petr Pavel – the President of the Czech Republic, and Mr. Jan Lipavský – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic.

We will miss deeply H.E. Ms. Ingrid Brockova, and wishing her good luck in her next position.

On the occasion of St. Patrick’s Day – Ireland’s National Day, The Ambassador of Ireland, H.E. Mr. Alan Gibbons, and Dr. Ernesto Vasquez del Aguila host a reception at the beautiful Kaiserstejnsky Palac in Prague.

Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored guest.

Watch the video with the speeches of H.E. Mr. Alan Gibbons, Ambassador of Ireland, and Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

Happy Patrick’s Day

H.E Mr. Kansuke Nagaoka, Ambassador of Japan in the Czech Republic, organized a Sake Seminar at his beautiful residence.

The seminar starts with greetings of H.E Mr. Kansuke Nagaoka, Ambassador of Japan.

Introducing four Sake Breweries from Japan:

Ms. Eiko Kodama, Kodama Brewing

Mr. Yujin Yusa, Ninki

Mr. Martin Sturma, Shimizu Seizaburo Shoten

Ms. Miho Komatsu, Akashi Sake Brewery

This was followed by a very interesting presentation by Ms. Dagmar Kadlecova, an SSA-certified sake educator, and a presentation by Mr. Hitoshi Utsunomiya, director of the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association.

After a traditional ceremony, a tasting of Sake took place with a very tasty Japanese food prepared by Kotaro Isobe – Head Chef of the Embassy of JAPAN in the Czech Republic.

Watch the video with highlights from the event.

Looking forward to visiting the breweries in Japan to learn more about Sake.

Ms. Marialuisa Pappalardo – director of Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Praga, the Embassy of Italy, and the Fondazione Arena di Verona, organized a presentation of the Arena di Verona 2025 Opera Festival in the beautiful Baroque Chapel of the Italian Cultural Institute in Prague.

After the presentation of the festival, soloists Gilda Fiume (soprano), Gianluca Terranova (tenor), and Leon Kim (baritone) will perform, accompanied by Cecilia Gasdia on the piano, performing some of the most famous arias by Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini.

Watch the video ( till the surprise at the end ) with the outstanding performance.

See you in Verona, you will not forget the moment.

The biggest International tourism fair in Prague took place on 14.-16 March 2025 at the PVA Expo Praha complex in Letňany. It was the 33rd annual fair.

This year, the fair runs concurrently with the 15th cycling fair “for Bikes, and the traveling festival “Around the World”.

The partner country of HOLIDAY WORLD & REGION WORLD 2025 is Slovenia. The partner region is Brno and South Moravia, the partner is Slovakia.

Watch the video from the festive opening ceremony and highlights from the fair.

Czech President Petr Pavel, who is on an official visit to Chisinau on Thursday, assured his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu of Czech support for Moldova’s EU bid, offering to share the country’s experience.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: Ondřej Tomšů, Radio Prague International

Prague’s Václav Havel Airport expects a significant increase in traffic this year. It should handle a record 18 million passengers and surpass the last pre-peak year in 2019.

According to representatives of Václav Havel Airport, Prague needs to prepare for the record number of passengers by strengthening its staff and capacity to handle passengers.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Ian Willoughby, Radio Prague International

US-born Guy Roberts founded and heads the Prague Shakespeare Company. He can also currently be seen on TV screens around the world acting in the fantasy series The Wheel of Time, whose third season has just kicked off. Our conversation also takes in Roberts’ Czech roots, expertise as a fight coordinator, involvement in a big-budget Jan Žižka biopic and lots more.

How did the young Guy Roberts catch the acting bug?.

See more here.

Author: Ian Willoughby

Photo: Jolana Nováková, Czech Radio

Thursday marks exactly 550 years since the foundation stone of Prague’s Powder Tower was laid. This grand Gothic gateway, once the entrance for coronation processions of Czech kings, remains one of the city’s most iconic medieval landmarks.

Built on the site of the 13th-century Horská Gate, the tower stood along an important trade route from Kutná Hora, where silver was mined for the royal treasury.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International

Daniel Sywala is a music journalist, broadcaster and language tutor based in Prague. He spoke to Danny Bate about his career and his efforts to champion the culture, music, food and people of former Yugoslavia, as well as discussing Czech-Serbian relations and the historic anti-corruption protests happening in Belgrade.

I’d like to begin with a profile of you, and I can think of no better person to explain that than yourself! What is it that you do here in Czechia?.

See more here.

Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Juan Pablo Bertazza, Radio Prague International

If you are visiting the Czech Republic and are wondering what souvenirs to take home for yourself or as gifts for friends, here are some tips that are sure to please. They all have the Czech “stamp” on them and cover a broad price range, so you can pick a gift to suit your wallet.

Czechia is known world-wide for its crystal glass production and few visitors leave without a crystal glass object to take home –be it a set of luxury glasses or an impressive looking vase.

See more here.

Author: Daniela Lazarová

Photo: Vít Pohanka, Radio Prague International

Tucked away just a short walk from the well-trodden tourist paths of Hradčany lies a quiet green space that preserves a little-known chapter of Prague’s military past. Park Max van der Stoel may seem like an ordinary public park, but along its edge are massive stone and brick ramparts—remnants of the Baroque-era fortifications that once encircled Prague.

The story of these walls begins with the Thirty Years’ War, a devastating conflict that exposed Prague’s vulnerability to modern warfare.

See more here.

Author: Vít Pohanka

Illustrative photo: OurWhiskyFoundation, Pixabay, Pixabay License

Drink spiking – adding alcohol or drugs to someone else’s drink without their knowledge – has been a widely unacknowledged phenomenon in Czechia. There were previously no statistics for it, but now the Beat Sexism organisation has published an initial study that reports hundreds of cases of drink spiking in the country.

Beat Sexism is an international organisation based in Prague, which focuses on women’s rights issues, documenting cases of sexism, and gender-related discrimination and inequality.

See more here.

Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Ferdinand Hauser, Radio Prague International

In Czechia it is not often that you board a train driven by a woman. The first documented case of a woman driving a locomotive in Czechoslovakia was Margita Horváthová back in 1963. More than 60 years later, female train drivers are still few and far between. Of the 9,162 train drivers in the Czech Republic today, only 110 of them are women. One of them is Marie Sehnalová who has been a train driver with Czech Railways for 12 years. She mainly drives diesel trains in Prague and its surroundings. Radio Prague International joined her on a journey from Prague to Čerčany.

Tuesday evening at Prague Central Station.

See more here.

Author: Ferdinand Hauser, Daniela Lazarová

Illustrative photo: StockSnap, Pixabay, Pixabay License

Diagnosing dyslexia in children could soon be faster and more accurate thanks to scientists in Brno. They are developing an eye-tracker, a device that monitors eye movements while reading. The technology could help experts better understand reading difficulties and offer more targeted support.

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects how the brain processes written language, often causing children to struggle with recognizing letters, words, and sentence structures.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

A lowly tradesman in Roman times was a caupō, and to trade or barter was to caupōnārī. From either the noun or the verb, the modern Germanic languages of Swedish, Dutch and German get their words for ‘to buy’: köpa, kopen and kaufen. What’s more, the capital of Denmark is the related ‘merchant-harbour’, Copenhagen.

From one of the Germanic languages, the Slavic family also gets its verbs for ‘to buy’.

See more here.

Historian Radka Šustrová shares how her passion for history was shaped by family memory and the story of her grandfather, who was executed during the Nazi occupation. She explains her work with archival materials and why it’s essential to study challenging historical periods, from National Socialism to communist regimes, an reflects on differences between academic environments in Czechia, Austria, and the UK. The first episode of Science Without Borders offers a compelling view of research that crosses national and ideological boundaries.

Watch the new series from Radio Prague International and the Czech Centre Vienna in collaboration with Czexpats in Science.

See more here.

Author: Vít Pohanka, Barbora Navrátilová

Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz

The US government is halting financial support for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), whose headquarters is based in Prague. The organization has 21 bureaus and broadcasts in 27 languages to 23 countries, promoting independent journalism. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský is discussing whether the EU can take over and continue broadcasting at the Council of Europe meeting in Brussels on Monday.

Founded during the Cold War, Radio Free Europe (RFE) was launched in 1949 with a focus on Soviet satellite states, such as Czechoslovakia, while Radio Liberty (RL), created in 1951, concentrated on the Soviet Union and its republics.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Source: Warhorse Studios

A new website is giving Kingdom Come: Deliverance fans the chance to explore real-world locations featured in the game. Through interactive trails, costumed tours, medieval feasts, and more, the site lets players visit places like Kutná Hora and Trosky Castle while learning about the history behind the game. I spoke with Ondřej Slačálek, owner of Malešov Fortress—one of the locations featured on the site—and a key figure behind the project.

First of all, could you tell us what inspired you to create this website?.

See more here.

Photo: Patrik Uhlíř, ČTK

The fact that carriage driving is on the rise in Czech was demonstrated by the large number of spectators and competitors at the indoor horse-drawn carriage races in the riding hall of the Veterinary University of Brno on March 15th.

The traditional sport includes single-horse, double-horse and four-horse competitions, as well as a pony-carriage and children’s category.

See more here.

Photo: Czech National Library

In 2005, a fragment of a previously unknown Latin translation of the Chronicle of Dalimil, the first chronicle written in the Czech language, was successfully auctioned off in Paris. Dating back to the 14th century, this beautifully illuminated manuscript—attributed to Italian masters—was acquired by the Czech National Library.

Securing this treasure was no easy feat.

See more here.

Photo: Petr Novák, Wikipedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5

Gaia Mesiah is one of the bands that have influenced the Czech scene the most. The predominantly female band combines rock, punk and grunge, among other genres, and has many fans all over the country.

It all started at the beginning of the new millennium when guitarist Santa Morella and drummer Misha Cortéz formed the band, later bringing in singer Mark Rybin.

See more here.

The final press conference before the start of the World EXPO 2025, took place on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in the beautiful Art Nevou Fantova Building at the Main Railway Station (Praha Hlavní nádraží)

During the press conference, Ondřej Soška – Commissioner General of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025, evaluated the progress of the Czech National Pavilion’s preparations for its grand opening on April 13, 2025.

The final version of the cultural program was unveiled, presented the initiatives for children, revealed the official song of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025, and showcased the commemorative postage stamps dedicated to the World Expo.

As we approach the final phase, the project will be presented in its most comprehensive form.

The press conference was attended by:

• Ondřej Soška– Commissioner General of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025
• Kansuke Nagaoka – Japanese Ambassador to the Czech Republic
• Přemysl Pela – Program Director of the Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025
• Petra Čiháková – Coordinator of Creative Education in Schools, Knihy trochu jinak
• Karolina Neuvirthová Gudasová – Author of the “Karol and Kvído” project
• Rony Plesl – Czech glass artist and designer
• Jiří Šín – Inventor of the unique Vitrum Vivum technology
• Martin Holý and David Beer – Representatives of Czech Post

Among the invited guests will also be:

• Michal Gabaš– Architect of the Czech National Pavilion
• Partners of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025
• Members of the EXPO 2025 Czechia team and many others

The event was moderated by Jana Kohoutová ヤナ・コホウトヴァ Communication and Spoke woman of Czechia @ Expo 2025 Osaka

Watch the highlights video from the press conference and video of the official song of the Czech participation at EXPO 2025.

You can read more about the Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025 OSAKA, Japan in our new magazine:

On the occasion of the state visit of H.E Mr. Khurelsukh Ukknaa, President of Mongolia, to the Czech Republic, Her Excellency Mrs. Nomin Chinbat, Minister for Culture, Sports, Tourism and Youth of Mongolia organized a Concert of Mongolia’s Morin Khuur Orchestra at the beautiful Spanish Hall, at Prague Castle.

The honor speech was given by RNDr. Miloš Vystrčil, the President of the Senate of the Czech Republic.

Watch the video with the speech and select parts from the cultural program.

Korean Air has introduced its new corporate identity on March 11, revealing a modernized version of its signature Taegeuk symbol.

The unveiling took place at the airline’s headquarters hangar in Seoul during an exclusive event titled “Rising Night.” Approximately 1,000 guests, including employees, industry leaders and media representatives, attended the event.

The redesigned deep blue Taegeuk symbol, displayed prominently during the event, reflects Korean Air’s heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics. The updated logo aligns with modern and global minimalist branding trends while preserving the airline’s distinct identity.

The accompanying logotype, “KOREAN AIR,” positioned next to the Taegeuk symbol, combines the airline’s national prestige with a refined visual identity. Featuring subtle brushstroke-inspired details, smooth curves and open connections, the design offers a modern interpretation of Korean elegance.

Adding to the excitement, Korean Air also unveiled its new aircraft livery. As the curtain lifted, a Boeing 787-10 featuring the new design was revealed. This aircraft, registered as HL8515, showcases the airline’s latest Prestige Suites 2.0 cabin interiors and is set to enter service on March 12, operating from Seoul Incheon to Tokyo Narita.

Korean Air’s new livery showcases a bold “KOREAN” logotype, symbolizing its confidence as South Korea’s flagship carrier. The modern design features an enlarged logo and symbol for greater visual impact while maintaining overall balance. While preserving its signature sky-blue color, the airline has introduced a newly developed paint for a metallic effect to enhance its premium image. The traditional cheatline has been removed, replaced by a smooth, flowing curve that sweeps across the fuselage, creating a more refined and contemporary look.

During his address, Walter Cho, Chairman and CEO of Hanjin Group and Korean Air, shared his vision for the airline’s future. “As a unified Korean Air, we are committed to more than just transportation—we aim to connect people, cultures and the world through the skies. With this foundation, we will build an industry-leading safety system, elevate the customer experience and strengthen trust through open communication with all stakeholders. Together, we’ll create a more connected and better world.”

He continued, “With the full integration of Asiana Airlines, our role as Korea’s flagship carrier has grown even more significant. We will bring together our expertise, refine our strengths and unite cultures to create an innovative, unmatched airline experience.”

■ First logo change in 41 years: Honoring the Taegeuk legacy

Korean Air’s new logo integrates the Taegeuk symbol with the logotype “KOREAN AIR.” The symbol is rendered in dark blue, reinforcing the airline’s prestigious identity.

Korean Air’s New Corporate Identity (CI)

The new branding includes three variations: the full logo featuring both the Taeguk symbol and “KOREAN AIR,” a simplified version displaying only “KOREAN,” and a standalone Taegeuk symbol option.

To further enhance brand consistency, Korean Air introduced a three-dimensional (3D) motif inspired by the flowing curves of the Taegeuk design. The motif, featuring the airline’s signature light blue with accents of red, will appear on key customer touchpoints such as check-in screens, mobile SKYPASS cards and the airline’s website. Additionally, two-dimensional (2D) patterns, inspired by Korea’s landscapes, Taegeuk curves and traditional “Jogakbo” patchwork will be used on textiles and printed materials where 3D applications are not feasible.

Korean Air has also developed a proprietary typeface and iconography, reflecting the logotype’s design elements. These new visual assets will be gradually introduced across airport facilities, lounges and inflight environments.

This marks the first major brand update since 1984 when Korean Air introduced the Taegeuk symbol. Recognized globally, it remains a powerful representation of both the airline and the nation. The new corporate identity will be phased in across aircraft liveries, inflight services and key customer interaction points.

■ Elevating the inflight experience: New menus and upgraded services

Earlier today, Korean Air unveiled its newly upgraded inflight meals at Grand Hyatt Incheon. Designed to align with the airline’s new corporate identity, these enhancements aim to elevate the premium travel experience through refined dining and service offerings.

Korean Air has collaborated with Chef Seakyeong Kim, owner of Cesta in Seoul, to curate an exclusive selection of fine-dining-inspired meals. Featuring seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, these new dishes bring a gourmet experience to the skies.

For premium classes, expanded selections of amuse-bouche and appetizers create a more immersive tasting experience, while newly introduced main courses and desserts—such as Papillote and Petit Four—add both culinary sophistication and visual appeal.

Highlighting Korean culinary heritage, the airline has also developed signature dishes such as octopus nurungji rice, beef brisket bibimbap, abalone rice and royal hot pot (Shinseollo).

Economy-class meals options have been also expanded beyond the traditional beef bibimbap to include salmon bibimbap and spicy stir-fried octopus with pork. Reflecting global culinary trends, the menu now features dishes such as tofu pad thai, spicy eggplant stir-fry and rosé pasta, providing passengers greater variety.

To complement the elevated dining experience, Korean Air has partnered with luxury brands for its premium tableware. First-class passengers will dine on Bernardaud china with Christofle cutlery and Riedel glassware, while Prestige class will feature Armani/Casa dishware and glassware.

For enhanced comfort, first-class bedding will feature premium materials from Italian luxury brand Frette, accompanied by an innovative Air Coil mattress from Eco World. First-class passengers will also receive Frette loungewear for a more relaxing onboard experience.

Premium-class amenity kits, created in exclusive collaboration with British luxury brand Graff, consist of elegant pouches containing skincare products including perfume.

The upgraded inflight dining and service offerings will debut on March 12 across 10 major long-haul routes, including flights to New York, Paris and London. By June, these enhancements will be available on all long-haul routes, followed by a rollout to medium- and short-haul routes starting in September.

About Korean Air

Serving the world for more than 55 years, Korean Air is one of the world’s top 20 airlines, carrying more than 27 million passengers in 2019, pre-COVID. With its global hub at Incheon International Airport (ICN), the airline serves 116 cities in 40 countries on five continents with a modern fleet of 161 aircraft and over 20,000 professional employees.

Korean Air’s outstanding performance and commitment to the highest level of safety and customer service has widely been recognized. The airline has been granted numerous awards including a 5-star airline rating from Skytrax as well as Air Transport World’s Airline of the Year and Cargo Operator of the Year awards.

Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, and has grown into one of the largest transpacific airlines through its joint venture with Delta Air Lines.

Korean Air has four weekly direct flights between Prague and Seoul-Incheon during the summer flight schedule and three weekly flights during the winter flight schedule

President 2nd year Druhý rok na Hradě

Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková, iROZHLAS.cz

A major exhibition dedicated to the legendary Mongolian ruler Chinggis Khan opened this week at Prague’s National Museum. Showcasing more than 260 rare items from Mongolia, many of which are seldom seen abroad, the exhibition includes an extraordinary highlight—a unique wooden horse saddle from the Great Mongol Empire.

Titled Chinggis Khan, the exhibition transports visitors into the world of the great conqueror and his empire in the first quarter of the 13th century and the centuries before and after.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

Illustrative photo: Kanenori, Pixabay, Pixabay License

In addition to Germany, Poland, and Austria, Czechs may also be able to reach Slovakia by train on the high-speed line in the future. The Slovak side has completed a feasibility study for the route between Bratislava and the Czech border, which now needs to be approved by the local government. Both sides will be able to begin detailed planning of the connection.

The high-speed line will lead from Brno to Breclav and further to the border.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Barbora Navrátilová, Radio Prague International

Vyšehrad, Prague’s legendary hilltop fortress, offers visitors far more than stunning views and ancient monuments. Beneath its walls lies a lesser-known historical marvel—the Vyšehrad Casemates, an underground complex from the 17th century, once built to safeguard soldiers from enemy fire and now open for exploration.

The Vyšehrad Casemates date back to the turbulent era following the devastating Thirty Years’ War.

See more here.

Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Jovan Dezort, ČTK

At the height of his career in the 1960s, jazz legend Louis Armstrong embarked on a tour across eastern Europe. Czechoslovakia was both the first and longest destination for the American trumpeter and singer. In March 1965, he spent 10 days in Prague, performing nine sold-out concerts at Lucerna with his band, the All Stars. The feat was unusual for the famed musician’s career and stands out as one of the memorable moments of Prague in the 1960s.

In March 1965, Louis Armstrong, nicknamed Satchmo, visited Prague during a period of reform in Communist Czechoslovakia, particularly in the cultural sector.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Festival Jeden svět

The One World Documentary Festival kicks off in Prague on Wednesday, shedding light on some of the most pressing social and political issues of our time. This year’s program features 84 documentaries, along with several fictional, immersive, and short films. In addition to the screenings, visitors can look forward to discussions, workshops, and other special events. I spoke with Ondřej Kamenický, the festival’s director, about this year’s programme.

This year’s opening film, My Memory is Full of Ghosts, tells the story of Homs, a once-thriving Syrian city now devastated by war.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: archive of ABS

Exactly fifty years ago, Olga Hepnarová became the last woman to be executed in Czechoslovakia. Her case still haunts the Czech public imagination. It was one of the most shocking crimes in Czechoslovakia’s post-war history.

On July 10, 1973, 22-year-old Olga Hepnarová drove a truck into a group of people waiting at a tram stop in Prague, killing eight and injuring twelve.

See more here.

Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: Hana Řeháková, Radio Prague International

Although women composers have been around for centuries, the field remains largely male-dominated, with few women leading prominent global ensembles. Born 110 years ago, Vítězslava Kaprálová may have been one of those women had she lived longer. Following in her footsteps today is Anna Novotná Pešková, appointed conductor of the National Theatre Opera and the State Opera at just 28. In this edition of our series on Czech female pioneers, I asked her for her perspective on working in a male-dominated field, the challenges young conductors face in earning respect, and what drives her passion for conducting:

You were born in Opočno and grew up in the East Bohemian town of Hradec Králové, where you attended the local music school.

See more here.

Photo: Filip Jandourek, Český rozhlas

Even after nearly eight decades, the circumstances surrounding the death of Jan Masaryk remain unclear. The son of Czechoslovakia’s first president and the country’s top diplomat died on March 10, 1948, just weeks after the Communist coup d’état.

Officially, his death was ruled a suicide—he allegedly jumped from a window of his apartment at the Černín Palace, the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

See more here.

Author: Vít Pohanka

Photo: One World

Venezuelan-born Jerina Sykora was named after her Czech grandmother Jiřina, who fled to the South American state in the wake of the 1948 Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia. Jerina herself fled in the other direction; among millions of people who have quit Venezuela due to its political turmoil, she and her family have resettled in Czechia under a government repatriation scheme. Their gripping story is the focus of Volver a Volver, a documentary that will get its premiere at the One World festival in Prague next week.

When and why did your family [who owned a textiles factory] leave Czechoslovakia?.

See more here.

Author: Ian Willoughby

Photo: Jiří Šeda, Czech Radio

Vlny (Waves) was the big winner at this year’s Czech Lion national film awards, taking home six prizes, including Best Film and Best Director for Jiří Mádl. The ceremony took place at Prague’s Rudolfinum, where Mádl’s historical drama dominated the competition.

Jiří Mádl’s Waves, which centres on events at Czechoslovak Radio at the time of the Soviet invasion, became the highest-grossing Czech film of 2024, and the second highest-grossing Czech film of all time.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková

Photo: Miroslav Chaloupka, ČTK

Giant light puppets and projections on St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral were part of the Plzeň 2025 – Open Up! event at the weekend, which launched celebrations of the tenth anniversary of the city being declared European Capital of Culture 2015.

See more here.

Photo: Statutární město Ostrava / Archives of the city of Ostrava

Led by the Soviet Union’s Red Army, the Moravia–Ostrava offensive was the largest combat operation on the territory of modern-day Czechia. It lasted almost two months, from March 10th to May 6h 1945, and approximately 400,000 soldiers were deployed. In our anniversary series ’80 years ago: How did WWII end in the Czech lands?’, we look at the events and the significance of this brutal chapter of Czech history, with comments from expert historian Jiří Neminář.

The number of combatants killed or wounded in the Moravia–Ostrava offensive of 1945 are staggering.

See more here.

Author: Danny Bate

Photo: Jan Šmíd, Czech Radio

‘Host’ might be a challenge for English-speaking Czech learners, since the word looks like the opposite of what it means – not a guest, but a host!

One thing to bear in mind is that very early Czech went through a change that turned G-sounds into H-sounds.

See more here.

Photo: SMART Communication s.r.o.

On today’s Sunday Music Show, we present the soundtrack to last year’s hit film, Vlny, or ‘Waves’. This thrilling film, directed by Jiří Mádl, presents the story of a team of daring radio presenters, who lived and broadcast through the turbulent events of 1968 in Czechoslovakia – from the highs of the Prague Spring to the calamity of the Warsaw Pact Invasion.

The film’s soundtrack includes authentic tunes and voices from that era, with Czechoslovak pop hits like Pojď se mnou, lásko má (‘Come with me, my love’) by Waldemar Matuška, Nechte zvony znít (‘Let the bells ring’) by Marta Kubišová, Přejdi Jordán (‘Cross the Jordan’) by Helena Vondráčková, as well as I’m a Believer by The Monkees.

See more here.

Photo: Juan Pablo Bertazza, Radio Prague International

The history of one of the most significant towns in the South Bohemian Region dates back to 1265. Its foundation is credited to Přemysl Otakar II, known as the “Iron and Gold King.”

While the process of founding Budějovice began as early as 1263, the pivotal moment occurred on March 10, 1265, when the knight Hirzo, appointed by Přemysl Otakar II to plan the town’s layout, handed over the site to the Dominicans.

See more here.

Illustrative photo: Free-Photos, Pixabay, Pixabay License

The world-famous Michelin Guide will feature Czechia as one of the top culinary destinations. The Czech state agency CzechTourism has signed a three-year contract with the French company Michelin worth 1.3 million euros. Radio Prague International asked the head of CzechTourism, František Reismüller, why he thinks this is a good investment.

Czechia has long been known for its historic cities, castles, and picturesque landscapes.

See more here.

Photo: Adam Block, Mount Lemmon SkyCenter/University of Arizona/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Between galaxies in the universe, winds blow, made up of a stream of intergalactic gas particles. These have been described in detail for the first time by an international team of scientists, including astrophysicists from Masaryk University in Brno. The study has been published in the latest issue of the prestigious scientific journal, Nature.

The so-called galactic atmosphere has been studied by the scientific community for decades.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Bulgaria, The Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria H.E. Mr. Dantcho Dobrinov MITCHEV hosts a reception at the beautiful  Bulgarian embassy in Prague.

Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic, was the honored guest.

Watch the video with the speeches of H.E. Mr. Dantcho Dobrinov MITCHEV, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria and Mr. Jan Marian – Deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Czech Republic

Happy National Day Bulgaria

Честит национален празник на Република България

“Chestit natsionalen praznik na Republika Bŭlgariya”

H.E. Ms. Maria-Antoaneta BARTA – The Ambassador of Romania in the Czech Republic hosted a friendly event at the beautiful Palace of Romania Embassy to celebrate “Mărțișorulu”, a traditional holiday that symbolizes in Romania the arrival of spring.

It’s a tradition celebrated on the 1^st of March and it represents a symbol of health, joy, and revival of nature.

In the Romanian language, the word ”Mărțișor” is a diminutive of the name of the month of March. The literal translation of ”Mărțișor” would be “little March”

The “Mărțișor” has been inscribed since 2017 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as a Cultural Practice associated with the 1^st of March in Romania, Republic of Moldova, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia.

The Romanian spring traditions were brought to the Romanian Embassy in Prague by popular artists of the Bihor Cultural Center, with the support of the Romanian Cultural Institute. The foray into the history of the March brought to the attention of the international and Romanian public the evolution of this symbol of spring from ancient times into the contemporary. The exhibition of marches and traditional objects and the marches-making workshops under the coordination of Bihore artists Mirela Bota and Narcisa Midoschi were complemented by the culinary tradition of the “Mucenicilor”.

The “Mucenicilor” is a special tasty sweet dish, baked especially on March 9 by Romanian women. “Mucenicilor”. Or Sfintisori – in translation “little saints” is made in the shape of figure 8, which some say denotes a stylized human form of the martyrs themselves.

There are two types of “Mucenicilor”: in the Moldova region ( my birthplace) the dough is baked in the shape of Figure 8 and then smeared with honey and walnuts, while in some other regions, especially in the Muntenia region , the dough is much smaller ( mini 8s ) and boiled in water with sugar, then served with cinnamon and crushed nuts, like a sweet soup.

The first part of the event was mainly addressed to the female audience from the diplomatic body accredited in Prague and Czech institutions, and the second part was to the members of the Romanian community in Prague and the Romania-Czech Association. Thank you, Bihor Cultural Center, for this new collaboration! We wish you all a beautiful spring!

Watch the video of the welcome speech of H.E. Ms. Maria-Antoaneta BARTA – The Ambassador of Romania in the Czech Republic, and pictures from the event.

I am a journalist, not a restaurant reviewer, and I love good food and great service.

From time to time, I go with good friends to eat at a new restaurant.

This time, my friend chose an Italian restaurant in Prague’s Old Town, by the Jewish museum, called “Casa de Carli”.

It is a family-run Italian restaurant that opened in 2012. From 2021, it’s been a part of the Michelin guide, though I only found this information out just now, when writing this article. When I arrived there, all I knew was the name and the address.

My first impression was good: a beautiful, clean, and warm design, with a high ceiling. I was welcomed by the host with a great smile, which made me feel more comfortable.

Now, let’s speak about the food:

As a primi / antipasti, I chose the pan-seared foie gras, while my friend had the artichoke with avocado.

As the main dish, I choose the sea bass filet, and my friend ordered the baked turbot fillet in crust.

I could not miss out on the “Dolce” – we ordered 2 kinds to share. A traditional tiramisu – made in front of you, and the smoked Cuban cigar. (watch the video).

The foie gras was divine. It took me back to our visit to France a few years ago. My friend loved the artichoke with avocado.

I found the sea bass very tasty, and my friend described her baked turbot fillet in crust as “divine”.

We shared the “dolce”. The tiramisu (freshly-made in front of us) was great, we could really taste the fresh coffee. Probably one of the best we have ever had. The smoked Cuban cigar had a special presentation, and was tasty

Watch the video and the pictures of our menu (different than on their website – https://www.casadecarli.cz/en/)

Unfortunately, I cannot electronically share the great taste…

Written by M.Zisso

Photo: Pavel Novák, Czech Radio

A major exhibition of Alfons Mucha’s posters and banners has opened in Washington, D.C. Entitled Eternal Mucha – The Magic of the Line, the exhibition showcases the works of the famous Art Nouveau artist and will travel across the United States and Mexico for nearly two years.

More than 100 of Mucha’s works are currently on display at the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková, Pavel Novák

Photo: YouTube

Born Peter Löw in 1935 in Karlovy Vary, Gidon Lev survived with his mother during the Shoah, after four years of internment in Terezín/Theresienstadt, while 26 members of his family were killed. After the war, he left Czechoslovakia in 1948, first to New York, then to Toronto and settled in Israel in the late 1950s. After he published two books with his partner Julie Gray about his story, Gidon Lev – who celebrates his 90th birthday on March 3 – became a phenomenon on social media, with almost half a million followers on TikTok.

Gidon Lev, thank you very much for being with us from Israel.

See more here.

Author: Alexis Rosenzweig

Illustrative photo: cegoh, Pixabay, Pixabay License

There will be a Children’s Ombudsman in Czechia as early as 1 July 2025, the Senate decided on Wednesday. The Children’s Ombudsman is to focus on the rights of children who have been “forgotten” by the system. So what kind of cases will the office deal with?

Czech children have been waiting for an ombudsman for decades.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík

Photo: Tomáš Vojkovský, iROZHLAS.cz

The heated meeting that took place last week on Friday in the Oval Office between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky led to increased interest in Czechia in financial aid to Ukraine.

Gift for Putin, Memory of the Nation, People in Need, and Team4Ukraine collections have all seen an increase in donations since the meeting in the Oval Office on Friday evening.

See more here.

Author: Jakub Ferenčík