Thursday, November 28, 2024
Jan Lipavsky is to remain the Czech minister of foreign affairs as an independent after he left the liberal Czech Pirate Party.
Lipavsky and Minister for Legislation Michal Salomoun resigned from the party on October 1 following an internal party vote in which nearly 80% of voters decided to leave the centre-right cabinet of Petr Fiala after Fiala dismissed the Pirate Party leader, Ivan Bartos.
“It will be an honour to continue in this work. Chairmen of four coalition parties backed me to continue,” Lipavsky told media following his talk with Fiala on October 2, adding that “I believe I will be able to continue working on Czechia being a reliable and pro-Western partner.”
Fiala also announced the legislation portfolio will be taken over by the Ministry of Justice, headed by the controversial Pavel Blazek, Fiala’s neoliberal ODS party colleague.
The foreign ministry under Lipavsky was credited for steering Czech diplomacy more clearly into the Western core after the previous cabinet of populist billionaire Andrej Babis openly flirted with Hungary’s radical rightwing leader Viktor Orban.
During Lipavsky’s tenure, Czechia also held the EU presidency in the second half of 2022 and profiled itself as a staunch backer of Ukraine. Along with Hungary, Czechia is also the only EU country backing uncritically the ultranationalist Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu.
The two countries voted against the United Nations General Assembly resolution on September 18 calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian-occupied territories within a year.
Lipavsky has also profiled himself as a rightwing Pirate after he reportedly said his party needs “to get rid of commies and ultra-lefties”, sparking criticism from his own ranks.
Staunch anti-communist rhetoric is repeatedly picked up by the Eurosceptic wing inside ODS, which includes anti-Green Deal politicians Alexander Vondra or Jan Skopecek, and who often employ it to accuse the European Commission and Brussels of being interventionist, much in the way Babis, his ANO party and other populist and far-right parties criticise the EU.
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While brunch was once mainly an American tradition, it has now firmly taken root in Prague’s culinary scene. We’ve selected some of the best places to enjoy brunch in the city.
Don’t hesitate to brunch solo—and if you don’t need to return to work afterward, why not indulge in a glass of prosecco with your meal? After all, a small indulgence pairs perfectly with a big breakfast.
Seasons at Hilton
On Saturdays, for just 990 CZK, you can enjoy unlimited consumption of Prosecco, Eggs Benedict, meat and fish carvery, sushi, rich selection of desserts and much more. Live music will keep the good vibes flowing. The experienced team, led by Chef Pavel Brož, uses mainly local seasonal ingredients of the highest quality.
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Eska
If you’re craving a relaxed brunch filled with crispy pastries, head to Eska in Karlín. Every day from 8 AM to 3 PM, they offer an array of classic breakfast items like scrambled eggs or eggs in a glass. But they also go beyond the usual, serving up tasty sausages, flaky toast, and their iconic potatoes in ashes. For a special touch, try washing it down with an apple mimosa—its flavor is bound to linger in your memory.
Bistro Monk
Looking for an all-day brunch experience? At Bistro Monk, brunch is not just an option; it’s a daily event. Starting from 8:30 AM at either of their two Prague locations, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of homemade bread made through long cold fermentation. The result? A loaf with a full, rich flavor and a supple crumb. Not a bread lover? No problem—indulge in their buttermilk pancakes with wild blueberry cream or try the hazelnut granola with farmhouse yogurt.
The Flat Café
Imagine stepping into a cozy British living room—that’s the vibe at The Flat Café in Vršovice. Their weekend brunch, starting at 9 AM, features a classic English breakfast with baked beans, butter mushrooms, handmade pork sausages, poached eggs, hash browns, and toast. For something lighter, you can opt for buttermilk pancakes or a fluffy omelette. And if you’re feeling indulgent, sip on a French 75 cocktail, a delightful mix of gin, prosecco, lemon juice, and zest.
The Artisan
For a more traditional Sunday brunch buffet, The Artisan offers an extraordinary 46-course spread every Sunday. Enjoy a variety of delicacies, including signature dishes from Chef David Rejhon. To enhance the experience, the venue also features live music and entertainment to complete your Sunday outing.
Etapa
An established player in Prague’s brunch scene, Etapa has garnered loyal customers with its uncomplicated yet delicious offerings. Starting at 9 AM daily, Etapa focuses on colorful vegetable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, paired with unique flavor combinations. Their homemade 100% wholemeal sourdough bread and sweets are also fan favorites.
Cafe Savoy
Craving a Viennese-style brunch? Look no further! On weekends, indulge in an unforgettable brunch experience at Café Savoy. Their iconic French breakfast, featuring fries with their famous truffle mayonnaise, is not to be missed. If you’re looking for something different, the Savoy breakfast or the classic continental breakfast are also excellent choices. Both options come with a hot drink of your choice. Weekend brunches are served from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Café Savoy.
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Nestled in a historic building just steps from Old Town Square, Lumia Gallery is the largest digital art gallery in the Czech Republic.
Located on Celetná Street, this unique space offers visitors an immersive journey into a world of light, sound, and boundless creativity.
Spanning two floors and covering 1,300 m², the gallery features 23 captivating installations that invite you to dive into a realm of visual wonders and emotional experiences.
Each installation is meticulously crafted to envelop you in an environment where light, color, and sound blend to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Visitors can find themselves mesmerized by a kaleidoscopic cinema that morphs images into a hypnotic dance of light, or lose themselves in a mirrored labyrinth where the lines between reality and reflection blur.
Other exhibits transport you to the simulated surface of Mars, the depths of the ocean, or on a cosmic journey through the galaxy. The gallery’s experiences are further intensified by their integration with music, adding layers of depth to the overall experience.
The gallery’s recently expanded interactive section focuses on sustainable human impact on Earth, urging visitors to respect and protect nature and to recognize humanity’s place within the universe.
It explores the profound consequences of human activity on the environment and, in an interactive way, delves into the aesthetics of contrasting random and ordered structures in motion. Some installations also take an unconventional approach to the theme of the eye, a powerful symbol of knowledge and human existence, synchronized seamlessly with music.
The concept of a permanent, interactive, audiovisual art exhibition in Prague was conceived a decade ago by Filip Kočík, a photographer, artist, and producer known in the art world as Feex.
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His vision of “luminous imagination” inspired other artists and visual creators to bring this project to life. The gallery showcases works from renowned artists such as Ati Sphere, Michal Škorpík, AV Collective FotonX, Igor Teichman, and Julius Štefan.
Lumia Gallery is an inclusive space, welcoming art lovers, families, and anyone seeking an inspiring and unique experience. The gallery is pet-friendly, so you can enjoy the visit with your four-legged companion.
It is also fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts to all floors, ensuring that everyone can experience its magic. Additionally, visitors can take home a piece of the experience with original souvenirs and gifts available at the gallery’s shop.
A visit to Lumia Gallery will leave you seeing the world through new eyes, prompting you to question your perceptions and offering fresh perspectives.
Important Notice: The exhibition is not suitable for individuals with light sensitivity or photosensitive epilepsy.
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The Bruce Weber: My Education exhibition, showcasing six decades of work by the renowned American photographer, is currently on display at Prague City Gallery’s Stone Bell House.
Since its opening on 20 September, the exhibition has attracted attention for its diverse range of Weber’s photography, including portraits, reportage, landscapes, and fashion images.
Weber’s iconic work has been featured in Vogue, GQ, and Vanity Fair, and he is known for capturing cultural and political figures such as Nelson Mandela and Georgia O’Keeffe.
The exhibition also highlights Weber’s connection to the Czech Republic, featuring photos he took of actor Heath Ledger in Prague in 2000. In addition, his work with Czech icons like Eva Herzigová and Martina Navrátilová is on display.
Weber is also celebrated for his filmmaking, with documentaries like Broken Noses (1987) and Let’s Get Lost (1988), which earned an Oscar nomination. His music video collaborations include work with the Pet Shop Boys and Chris Isaak.
Curated by Helena Musilová, the exhibition has been specially designed for the Stone Bell House, with production spanning five years across two continents. Visitors can view not only photographs but also Weber’s music and fashion videos.
The exhibition runs until 19 January 2025. Tickets are available both at the gallery and online.
Location: Prague City Gallery, Stone Bell House, Staroměstské náměstí
Hours: Tue–Sun, 10 am–8 pm
Admission: CZK 200 (adults), CZK 90 (students/seniors)
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Residents and visitors in Prague will have the opportunity to explore four branches of the National Gallery in Prague free of charge on Monday, October 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
This special offer is in celebration of the Day of the Formation of an Independent Czechoslovak State, a national holiday.
This initiative is open to all age groups, including both Czech citizens and foreign visitors, according to the gallery’s official website.
For those interested in taking advantage of this cultural opportunity, the following exhibitions will be open for free admission:
- Old Masters I (Schwarzenberg Palace)
- Old Masters II (Sternberg Palace)
- Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe 1200–1550 (Convent of St. Agnes of Bohemia)
- 1796–1918: The Art of a Long Century (Veletržní palác)
- 1918–1938: First Republic (Veletržní palác)
- 1956–1989: Architecture for All (Veletržní palác)
- 1939–2021: End of the Black and White Era (Veletržní palác)
October 28 marks the anniversary of the creation of the independent Czechoslovak state.
It was October 28, 1918 and the National committee just proclaimed the independence of Czechoslovakia. Czechs and Slovaks had been part of Austria-Hungary for quite a while and Czechoslovak politicians home as well as those exiled brought their attempts of independence to a successful end.
On the same day the first Czechoslovak law was passed and signed by the “Men of October 28” – i Antonín Švehla, Alois Rašín, Jiří Stříbrný, Vavro Šrobár and František Soukup. It was agreed that the newly created country would be a republic and the first president T. G. Masaryk.
Nowadays, October 28 is a public holiday called Czechoslovak Independence Day and a the day when the president awards State decorations of the Czech Republic.
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Starting October 14th, Manifesto Market will kick off its Pumpkin Season, offering a range of pumpkin-themed food and drinks from its vendors.
The limited-time menu will feature both sweet and savory dishes, all centered around autumn’s favorite ingredient—pumpkin.
Here’s what visitors can expect:
- Soot Bar will serve a Pumpkin Spice Latte and a hot pumpkin cocktail made with Tullamore Dew Honey and chai foam.
- Bakery60 will offer pumpkin cupcakes, a quick dessert option.
- Holy Pasta will have pumpkin soup, smooth and hearty.
- Barva will feature both pumpkin soup and varenyky filled with a pumpkin-based filling.
- Taiko Ramen will introduce udon noodles with pumpkin.
- Dirty Dog will serve a classic pumpkin pie.
In addition to the food and drinks, the market will be decorated with pumpkin and Halloween themes.
DJ performances are scheduled for Friday evenings on October 18th and 25th to add to the atmosphere. You can reserve your table here.
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After just three months, Prague’s Máj department store has permanently closed the Lvíčkov indoor children’s playground.
The announcement was made by Amadeus Real Estate, the owner of the Máj shopping center, through the playground’s official Facebook page.
According to the E15 news server, the decision to close the playground was due to consistently low traffic.
“The attempt to revitalize the center of Prague with family-friendly activities, which had strong public support, proved to be more challenging than expected. Moving forward, Máj will focus more on entertainment for older children and adults, in addition to its existing retail stores, services, and food court,” reads a statement posted on the playground’s Facebook page.
Amadeus also revealed they are currently planning a new project to utilize the space once occupied by the Lvíčkov playground, although no further details were provided.
Information shared online indicates that ticket prices for the playground ranged from 450 CZK for a child (aged one year or older) on weekdays, to 550 CZK on weekends and public holidays.
Adults were charged a flat rate of 150 CZK for entry, and prices increased by 40 CZK if purchased on-site rather than online. Babies under the age of one were admitted for free.
Máj, which re-opened to the public on June 24 this year following a two-year renovation, has been a landmark in central Prague since its restoration.
The project, which cost 4.5 billion crowns, added a variety of retail shops, restaurants, entertainment centers, and even a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city.
Before its official opening, the installation of two large butterfly sculptures—designed by the artist David Černý and resembling spitfire fighter planes—sparked debate among locals.
Moreover, after the grand opening, the design and layout of the upper floors, particularly the entertainment areas, received criticism from some architects and segments of the public.
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Autumn in Czechia sees nature take on a whole new coat of colours; the sun is still warm and there are lots of opportunities to enjoy some unforgettable adventures out in the bosom of nature.
This is the ideal time for hiking trips, either a day’s walking or longer treks lasting a few days. We present a few routes that are really worth trying!
Trail through the Lužnice Valley
This beautiful walk takes you into the heart of a typical Czech landscape, which is especially impressive in the autumn. This one is known as Toulava, or the Wandering Trail. It takes you through the deep valley of the Lužnice River in South Bohemia, lined with trees in all their autumn glory. Along the way, you come across places such as Tábor and Bechyně, where you can admire the beautiful sights in their historical centres and savour their unique genius loci.
The trail through the Lužnice Valley stands out as the first route in Czechia to have achieved the prestigious Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe certification. The trail starts in Planá nad Lužnicí and ends beyond where the Lužnice and Vltava rivers meet in Týn nad Vltavou. The trail is a total of 55 km long and is divided into stages spread across four days.
Ridge Route: A tip for true mountaineers
The historical Ridge Route (Hřebenovka), which dates back to 1902, takes you along some of the most notable parts of the Czech countryside along Czechia’s northern border. The route starts in the Jeseníky Mountains and runs through the Eagle and Jizera Mountains with the Jizera Mountain Beech Forest, a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, the Giant Mountains, Bohemian Switzerland as far as the Ore Mountains.
You can climb Praděd and Sněžka, the two highest mountains in the country, or admire Pravčice Gate, the largest sandstone arch in Europe. The route takes in a number of Czech mountain ranges, giving you the unique opportunity to explore the countryside in all its diversity. We recommend that you plan your trip properly, as there are several options for which way to go.
Beer trails for lovers of the Czech liquid gold
Beer trails are the perfect choice for beer and nature lovers. They combine some exercise in the fresh air with the chance to taste the best that Czech breweries have to offer! You can enjoy a wander through the countryside, discover some historical and modern breweries, call in at traditional pubs and freshen up with a glass of delicious Czech beer.
Each trail has its own unique appeal, but they all have one thing in common: the beauty of nature coupled with the charm of traditional Czech brewing. There are several trails to choose from – you can take a beer trail in the Giant Mountains, in South Bohemia or in the Plzeň region.
Kralický Sněžník and Dolní Morava
If you’re looking for a way of spending an active long weekend with the whole family, this place on the boundary between East Bohemia and Moravia is a must. Besides the wonderful footpaths and bike trails along Kralický Sněžník or in the Rychleby Mountains, there are also plenty of attractions for children.
A mammoth bobsled run, the Sky Walk and many other sports and tourist attractions. If you’re an adrenalin junkie, you’re sure to love the bike and adrenalin parks there. And the high point of it all is the Sky Bridge 721, the world’s longest suspension bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the countryside in all its beautiful autumn colours.
Don’t believe in doing things by half? The Czech Trail
Want to experience something you’ll remember for the rest of your life? Try walking at least part of the 2,000 km Czech Trail. This footpath is the first official border-to-border hike across Czechia and offers the chance to walk across the whole country from east to west and back.
You can choose either the northern or southern route. The hike gives you the chance to explore the Czech landscape in all its many forms, and as Czechia is surrounded by mountains on all sides, you’ll be walking through beautiful countryside all the time.
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Prague is set to welcome a new water education center, Hydropolis, following the city’s decision to sell the former Vinohrady Waterworks to Pražská vodohospodářská společnost (PVS) for nearly CZK 81 million crowns.
The center will be housed in the historic waterworks in Prague 10 and aims to highlight the importance of water management in modern cities, offering both educational and cultural experiences.
The Hydropolis project is a joint effort involving Prague Waterworks and Sewerage (PVK), the Veolia Group, and the Prague 10 district.
Construction is expected to begin this year, with the center opening in the latter half of 2026.
A major part of the project involves the restoration of one of the two underground water reservoirs for the exhibition space, while the second reservoir will be reconnected to the city’s drinking water supply system.
In addition to the exhibition, a conference hall with seating for up to 150 people will be established. This space will be used for seminars and meetings on topics such as sustainability, the environment, and other cultural or social events.
“We aim to create a multi-purpose space that not only educates the public on water management but also serves as a hub for cultural and environmental discussions,” said Adam Zábranský, Prague’s Councilor for Property, Transparency, and Legislation.
The seven-story historic water tower will be transformed into an interactive exhibition space focusing on water management.
Visitors will explore the role of water in shaping the planet, with modern touches like virtual reality to enhance the learning experience.
At the top, a lookout point will offer a panoramic view of Prague. Future visitors can also look forward to a refreshment zone and a public space featuring water-themed installations, benches, and relaxation areas.
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The 9th International Exhibition of Art Dolls, Puppets, and Collectible Teddy Bears will take place at the historic Lucerna Palace from November 8 to 10.
The theme of Doll Prague 2024 pays tribute to the great Bedřich Smetana with the quote, “Music is the language of emotion,” commemorating his important anniversary.
The main exhibition is curated by Lithuanian artist Olga Norviliene, whose central figure, a symbol of this celebration, is already featured in the event’s posters.
This year, organizers invited renowned artists such as Marlaine Verhelst, Connie Lowe, Chomik and Meder, Tamara Pivnyuk, and many leading Czech artists, including Eva Hodinková.
More than 127 artists from 22 countries have confirmed their participation.
Each doll on display is a unique work of art, characterized by its individuality, meticulous craftsmanship, and variety of materials.
“Art doll collectors include many celebrities, such as Hollywood actress Demi Moore, who has even dedicated a house to her dolls. Her collection of over 3,000 pieces is insured for $2 million,” says Bohdana Klátilová, exhibition director and recipient of the prestigious Pandora Platinum International Award.
In addition to the exhibition, a rich program of accompanying events awaits you. Artists from the National Institute of American Doll Artists (NIADA) will present various techniques and methods for creating art dolls and figures directly at their exhibition.
Additionally, there will be art workshops for adults during the exhibition, which can be registered for now on the exhibition’s website.
Doll Prague 2024 will also feature Czech puppeteers whose creations are listed on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
Tickets:
– Adults: 250 CZK
– Reduced admission: 160 CZK
– Children up to 6 years old: Free
– Art school students: Free (on Fridays, by prior reservation)
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In a major step toward post-pandemic recovery, Emirates will once again deploy the iconic Airbus A380 for regular flights between Dubai and Prague.
The first scheduled flight is set for December 1, marking the return of the world’s largest passenger aircraft to Prague’s Václav Havel Airport since the COVID-19 outbreak.
The A380 will operate daily on the Dubai-Prague route, with flight EK139 arriving in Prague at 12:30 PM.
The return leg, flight EK140, will depart at 2:45 PM. These times are based on the current schedule available in Emirates’ reservation system.
Emirates first introduced the Airbus A380 on the Prague route back in 2016, and the aircraft quickly became a regular sight at Ruzyně.
However, since the pandemic began, the superjumbo has only made limited appearances in Prague, primarily during emergency flights.
Most recently, Lufthansa utilized the A380 for crew training purposes, bringing it to the Czech capital on several occasions.
