For the first time since records began, the Czech Republic’s average annual temperature is expected to surpass 10 degrees Celsius.

If November and December maintain average conditions, the annual average will reach 10.3°C—0.6°C higher than 2023.

This historic milestone was reported by Jáchym Brzezina, a meteorologist from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute in Brno, on the X social network. The country’s temperature records date back to 1775 in Prague’s Klementinum and to 1800 in Brno.

A Year of Unbroken Records

Every month in 2024 has been above the 1991–2020 average, making this year exceptional compared to previous warm years. February, in particular, stood out with a record-breaking temperature increase of more than 6°C above average.

March was nearly 4°C warmer, while August and September exceeded average temperatures by at least 2°C. The last month to record below-average temperatures was May 2023.

Meteorologist Brzezina predicts that November will also be above average based on current trends, further solidifying this year’s record-breaking status.

Comparing Historical Trends

Recent years highlight the rapid warming of the Czech climate. In 2023, the country was 1.4°C warmer than the 1991–2020 average, and 2.2°C warmer than the 1961–1990 baseline. If 2024’s predicted annual temperature of 10.3°C holds, it will represent an increase of 2.8°C compared to 1961–1990, or almost 3°C higher.

Central Europe is warming at twice the global average rate, according to climatologists. While global warming values are approaching 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels (1.48°C in 2023), the Czech Republic’s increase is closer to 3°C.

Global Implications and Unanswered Questions

Experts predict that 2024 will not only be the warmest year in Czech history but also the warmest globally. Scientists have long anticipated gradual warming over the coming decades, but 2023’s unexpected temperature surge in the second half of the year has prompted further investigation. Multiple hypotheses have been proposed, but no definitive explanation has been found.

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Oliviers&Co – a company whose mission is to help you discover the richness and diversity of Mediterranean olive oils –  has made its long-anticipated debut in central Prague (Dlouhá 708/24).

The humble origins of this company date back to 1996 in the Mane, Alpes de Haute-Provence in France, where their oils are still packaged and tested with organoleptic superiority today.

The Rigorous Selection Process: A Commitment to Quality

Oliviers&Co oil is selected with only the purest regional tradition and agricultural sustainability in mind. The selection of oils undergoes a rigorous process during the prime olivade months between October and early February.

This process includes sensory analysis by a tasting committee that is headed by Alexandra Gauquelin-Roché, a renowned oleologist and graded byEric Verdier, who has been with the company since the beginning and has over 25 years of experience selecting award-winning olive oils.

However, these oils are not just selected based on their sensory satisfaction, they must meet a strict 200-point specification before they are added to the company’s diverse selection.

Transparency and Traceability: Know Your Olive Oil

Amongst their selection, Oliviers&Co showcases some of the world’s most renowned hand-picked, cold-pressed, award-winning olive oils. Amongst these is the Domaine Salvator Organic Olive Oil. This French olive oil, also harvested on the 1st of October 2023, produced by Sophie and Frederic Pinatel is known for its aromatic intensity due to the crops’ terroir, settled in a climate which is both Alpine and Mediterranean.

An additional distinct olive oil is their Finca Cortijo, harvested by the Vaño family in Spain on November 1st of 2023 as a part of a sacred family tradition since 1780 that leaves this oil bursting with the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and freshly cut grass. 

A Collection of Mediterranean Delicacies

Oliviers&Co offers a wide variety of vinegars and vinegar condiments ranging from their sweet and sour Classic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena to their fruity specialty Christmas Vinegar – Recipe with Champagne. 

You can also find a selection of white and black truffle products in the shop, such as their Mustard With Black Truffle.

Their products are available in an assortment of gift boxes quintessential for the upcoming holiday season to celebrate with friends and family.

The company offers a range of cosmetic products, including their bestselling Hands Balm With Organic Olive Oil made in Provence with shea butter and Aloe Vera. 

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On November 30, 2024, the Prague Transport Company will unveil its “Christmas fleet” – trams and buses decorated in the festive spirit.

A tram-lighting ceremony will take place in the courtyard of the Střešovice tram depot at 16:30, with the director of Prague Public Transport Authority DPP overseeing the grand inauguration.

From 16:45 p.m., the specially decorated trams and buses will embark on a 30-minute parade through the heart of Prague.

Where to Catch the Magic

The illuminated fleet’s journey will pass through iconic Prague locations, making it easy for residents and tourists to experience the glowing vehicles.

The parade will commence at the Střešovice Depot and continue through Hradčanská, Sparta, Strossmayerovo náměstí, Vltavská, Štvanice, Těšnov, Bílá Labuť, Náměstí Republiky, Dlouhá třída, nab. E. Beneše, and Malostranská.

The vehicles will stop on the Mánes Bridge for a photo op as they head back into Old Town before officially concluding at Staroměstská at around 6:00 p.m.

DPP has announced that the Christmas trams and buses will remain in operation through January 6, giving Prague residents and visitors plenty of time to see the holiday-themed vehicles across the city throughout the season.

Prague boasts the most extensively decorated public transport fleet in the Czech Republic this year, with five trams and two buses participating in the Christmas festivities.

The DPP Christmas fleet in 2024 consists of:

• tram 14T
• tram 15T
• Mazačka Lubrication (Maintenance) Tram
• bus SOR NB 12
• bus SOR NB 18
• 2 x two-axle motor car + Krasin towing car
• pair of T3 trams

 

 

 

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Opatovická Street in Prague 1 was the site of a gas leak emergency on Thursday evening, which prompted the evacuation of six buildings and affected around 150 people. 

Some residents were temporarily moved to an evacuation bus, while others found alternative accommodations for the evening. Meanwhile, police cordoned off the affected area to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized access.

“The area affected by the leak is being guarded to stop anyone from entering,” said one firefighter.

Around 7:15 p.m., a gas emergency service team reached the site and began restricting the gas flow to prevent further leaks. Current reports indicate that the leak was isolated to a single building, with no issues detected in neighboring properties.

The evacuation was carried out as a preventive measure, according to officials. After the gas supply is cut and proper ventilation conducted, evacuees may be allowed to return.

Both the Mayor of Prague 1, Terezie Radoměřská (TOP 09), and the city’s crisis management team were informed of the situation. “The mayor was kept updated throughout the operation,” confirmed a press spokesperson for Prague’s firefighters.

While the scene appeared dramatic due to flashing lights and the presence of emergency vehicles, the situation was largely under control.

Clear communication from the rescue teams and the absence of further gas leaks helped to maintain calm among the evacuees and onlookers.

Curious passers-by occasionally asked if they could proceed through the area or use their mobile phones, but most complied with the safety measures in place.

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Karel Jaromír Erben was a patriot of the Czech people—a historian, collector of cultural relics, and poet.

His most notable work, Kytice z pověstí národních (Bouquet of National Legends), stands as one of the most profound relics of Czech literature. To this day, Erben is revered for his impact on the Czech identity and his dedication to preserving it through his work.

Born on November 7th, 1811, Erben didn’t arrive in Prague until 1831, where he began studying philosophy and law. His career eventually led him to the National Museum, where he served as archival secretary, and he held editorial roles in various Prague newspapers.

Today, November 21st marks the anniversary of Erben’s death in 1870 due to tuberculosis.

The Czech National Revival

Erben played a pivotal role in the Czech National Revival, a movement aimed at reviving the language, culture, and national identity of the Czech people. This movement arose in response to the Germanization that followed the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, when the Habsburgs imposed German as the dominant language in state, education, and church affairs.

In defiance of this cultural suppression, the Czech nobility funded research into literature, history, and folklore in the Czech language.

The Significance of Kytice

The publication of Kytice was groundbreaking, filling a cultural void in Czech folklore. Erben was heavily inspired by The Brothers Grimm, incorporating similar themes of romantic nationalism.

The collection, originally consisting of 12 poems, focused on female relationships, particularly the bonds between mothers and daughters, with male figures often taking a secondary role. A 13th poem was added in the second edition, published in 1861.

Among the most famous works inspired by Kytice is Antonín Dvořák’s symphonic masterpiece, “The Water Goblin”. Dvořák, captivated by Erben’s vivid narratives, brought the poetry to life through music, blending moral themes with human nature.

Modern Adaptations of Erben’s Legacy

In 2000, filmmaker F. A. Brabec directed a cinematic adaptation of Kytice, incorporating seven of the original poems. The film received four Czech Lion Awards, including recognition for its photography, music, sound editing, and poster design.

The film’s stunning visuals and horror-inspired elements transformed Erben’s tales into powerful, literal interpretations, further embedding Kytice in the modern Czech cultural canon.

A Timeless Contribution

Karel Jaromír Erben remains a towering figure in Czech culture. His dedication to literature, history, and folklore during the National Revival continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. Through adaptations in film and music, Erben’s work has stood the test of time, reflecting the enduring spirit of Czech identity.

Today, we honor the man who gave voice to a nation’s soul and preserved its heritage for generations to come.

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The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) has issued a snowfall warning, effective from 10:00 PM on Thursday, November 21, until 12:00 PM on Friday, November 22.

The advisory primarily applies to the country’s eastern regions, where significant snowfall is expected to impact daily life and transportation.

Meteorologists predict 5 to 12 centimeters of snow accumulating within 12 hours in areas including the South Moravian, Zlín, Olomouc, and Moravian-Silesian regions.

Parts of the Highlands and Pardubice regions will also experience snowfall. The snow is not limited to mountainous regions but will also cover lowland areas, marking the season’s first significant snow cover at all altitudes.

Transportation Warnings

Authorities have cautioned that the snowfall will likely cause disruptions in transportation networks, especially on roads and highways. Drivers are urged to remain vigilant, monitor traffic updates, and equip their vehicles appropriately for winter conditions.

“This is the first major snowfall of the season, expected to create complications across all elevations,” reads the official statement from ČHMÚ. “We strongly recommend using winter tires with sufficient tread depth for city driving and anti-skid chains for mountain trips.”

Residents in affected areas are advised to prepare for potential disruptions, including delays in public transport and school closures.

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Every year, thousands flock to Old Town Square in Prague to witness the magical Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Wondering when it’s happening this year? Or curious about the Christmas markets and their schedule? Here’s everything you need to know about Prague’s festive season.

The lighting of Prague’s Christmas tree is a highly anticipated event, attracting both locals and tourists. This year, the grand ceremony will take place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 4:00 PM.

The tree—a towering 22-meter spruce—comes from the village of Krompach in the Českolipsko region. It was chosen from 45 candidates.

Christmas Markets on Old Town Square: Schedule and Highlights

The Old Town Square Christmas markets are renowned as some of the most beautiful in the world, offering a mix of tradition, culture, and festive cheer.

• Dates: November 30, 2024 – January 6, 2025
• Location: Old Town Square, Prague 1

Visitors can enjoy a rich cultural program, including concerts, theater performances, and showcases by children’s and folklore groups.

A large stage in the square will host these events, adding to the lively holiday atmosphere.

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Pařížská Street in Prague has solidified its place among the 20 most expensive shopping streets in the world.

According to the latest ranking by Cushman & Wakefield, the prestigious street is ranked 20th globally, maintaining its reputation as a hub for luxury retail in Central Europe.

The biggest surprise this year is the new leader of the list: Milan’s Via Montenapoleone, which has overtaken the iconic Fifth Avenue in New York as the world’s most expensive shopping street.

The annual Main Streets Across the World report analyzes retail rents in 138 prime locations across nearly 50 countries. It focuses on streets synonymous with luxury shopping, where top brands compete for visibility.

This year, the highest rent in Pařížská was reported at €2,700 per square meter annually, equivalent to €225 per square meter per month. While this figure remains unchanged from last year, the street moved up one spot in the rankings.

“Pařížská Street remains the leading entry point for luxury brands targeting Central and Eastern Europe, with new flagship stores opening each year,” said Jan Kotrbáček, Partner and Head of Central and Eastern Europe Retail Leasing at Cushman & Wakefield.

Recent additions to the street include Balmain Hair Couture and Le Labo, joining the ranks of Ralph Lauren, Jimmy Choo, and Zadig & Voltaire.

Kotrbáček highlighted the avenue’s unique mix of historical charm and a comprehensive range of global luxury brands, making it a standout destination in Central Europe.

Pařížská’s upward trajectory is expected to continue with the completion of two major projects: the Fairmont Golden Prague Hotel and a new development at Pařížská 25. These ventures will introduce new luxury stores, restaurants, wellness facilities, and entertainment venues, further enhancing the street’s appeal.

Prague’s Luxury Market

Beyond Pařížská, other key shopping areas in Prague are thriving. Na Příkopě Street and the lower section of Wenceslas Square offer monthly rents of around €220 per square meter, ranking just behind Pařížská.

In Brno, the Czech Republic’s second-largest city, shopping streets like Česká, Masarykova, and Náměstí Svobody see monthly rents between €65 and €70 per square meter.

Europe Dominates the Rankings

For the first time, a European street leads the global ranking. Milan’s Via Montenapoleone surged to the top with rents rising by nearly 30% over the past two years, supported by strong retail demand and a strengthening euro.

New York’s Upper Fifth Avenue held second place, while London’s New Bond Street climbed to third, overtaking Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui. Paris’s Avenue des Champs Élysées retained fifth place, followed closely by Tokyo’s Ginza District, which recorded a 25% increase in rents.

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The Czech Republic and Poland have been called out for breaching EU laws, following a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice on November 19.

The court found both nations guilty of violating EU citizens’ rights by barring foreigners from joining political parties, a move that restricts their ability to run in local and European elections under the same conditions as nationals.

Under current Czech law, foreigners—including citizens from other EU member states—are prohibited from joining political parties or movements. While this may surprise some, this policy persists even in 2024, despite the Czech Republic’s status as a liberal democracy.

This rule affects not only non-EU citizens but also Slovaks and other long-term EU residents, raising questions about fairness and inclusivity in Czech political life.

Limited Participation in Political Life

A skeptic might ask: why would a foreigner want to join a Czech political party? The answer lies in how political influence works. Without party membership, foreigners lack the tools to engage fully in municipal and European elections, despite having the legal right to vote and run for office.

This poses a paradox: EU residents in the Czech Republic can stand for election but must do so as independents. Without party support, their chances of securing leadership roles or winning elections diminish significantly.

For instance, forming electoral coalitions or earning prime positions on candidate lists is far easier within a party structure. Denying foreigners this access essentially limits their role in the democratic process.

Legal Barriers to Inclusion

The Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, part of the Czech Constitution, reserves political party membership exclusively for Czech citizens (Article 20, Paragraph 2). Similarly, the Act on Association in Political Parties specifies that only Czech citizens aged 18 or older can join.

Yet, EU residents with permanent status already enjoy significant political rights in the Czech Republic. They can vote in municipal and European Parliament elections and even run as candidates. Extending party membership to these individuals seems only logical to align with their voting rights.

The European Commission began addressing Czechia’s restrictions in 2012 by opening formal proceedings for breaching EU rules.

Despite repeated criticism, Czechia has maintained that its laws comply with EU regulations.

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On this day, November 20th, 1850, Charlotte Garrigue Masaryk, the American First Lady of Czechoslovakia, was born in Brooklyn, New York.

She was the daughter of Rudolph Garrigue, a successful businessman of Danish and German descent, and Charlotte Garrigue, for whom she was named. Charlotte was part of a progressive and loving family that valued education and equality, concepts that were far ahead of their time. These principles shaped Charlotte into a staunch advocate for women’s rights.

Affectionately called “Charlie” by her 10 siblings, showed an early passion for music. At 17, she traveled to Leipzig, Germany, to advance her studies. Despite her dedication, the intensive practice caused irreparable damage to her hands, forcing her to transition to teaching piano.

Undeterred, Charlotte continued her education in mathematics and the arts, demonstrating her resilience and thirst for knowledge.

In 1876, while in Leipzig, she met Tomáš Masaryk, a young student boarding with her family friends, the Georings. Their connection was instant, and the couple married at Charlotte’s parents’ home in the Bronx, New York. Inspired by her progressive ideals, Tomas adopted her maiden name as his middle name, becoming Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk.

A Partnership Built on Shared Ideals

The early years of their marriage were marked by financial struggles. Tomáš’s modest income as a lecturer in Vienna was their sole source of support until he secured a position as a philosophy professor at Charles University in Prague.

Despite their challenges, the Masaryks remained steadfast in their shared commitment to progressivism. Tomas’s defense of Leopold Hilsner, a Jewish man falsely accused of murder, sparked public outrage. However, Charlotte’s unwavering support helped the family endure these trials.

In 1918, Charlotte stood beside Tomáš as he became the founder and first president of Czechoslovakia. Far from a passive figure, she championed the rights of women and collaborated closely with her husband on many issues. \

Her advocacy extended to her daughters, ensuring they received higher education—a rarity for women at the time. Alice Garrigue Masaryk, their eldest daughter, became one of the first Czech women to attend university, a testament to Charlotte’s influence.

Tomáš often credited Charlotte for inspiring his feminist policies, acknowledging her as an intellectual and emotional partner. Her contributions to the national revival and her belief in the role of women in politics left an indelible mark on Czechoslovakia.

Challenges and Legacy

World War I brought immense suffering to Charlotte. As Tomáš fled to Switzerland to lead the independence movement, Charlotte endured the horrors of war alone. Her health deteriorated under the strain of her son Herbert’s death, her daughter Alice’s imprisonment, and her son Jan’s forced conscription into the Austrian army.

Though Tomášomas returned triumphantly after the war, Charlotte’s health never recovered. She lived her final years in seclusion, passing away in 1923.

Even after her death, Tomas’s devotion to Charlotte remained evident. He often reflected on her profound impact on his life and work, famously declining to reveal the personal details of their relationship in his memoirs, Talks With T.G. Masaryk.

Charlotte Garrigue Masaryk’s legacy endures as a trailblazer for women’s rights and a symbol of resilience. Her advocacy continues to inspire generations of women worldwide.

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The Prague City Council has approved a program to support environmental projects in 2025, allocating nearly 43 million crowns from its budget to fund initiatives that enhance public green spaces, promote ecological education, and adapt to climate change.

Applications for funding will be open from January 2 to January 13, 2025.

This initiative aims to encourage individuals, organizations, and associations to participate in improving the city’s environment through seven categories of projects.

These categories include programs for public greenery, circular economy innovations, nature conservation, climate change adaptation, and educational activities. For the second year in a row, circular economy projects will also be eligible for funding.

“The strategy for transitioning to a circular economy is one of the four foundational pillars of Prague’s Climate Plan until 2030,” stated Jana Komrsková, Deputy Mayor for the Environment and Climate Plan.

“Unlike traditional approaches that extract, use, and discard raw materials, a circular economy minimizes waste and keeps resources in use for as long as possible. This not only conserves resources but also improves urban living conditions.”

Projects eligible for funding include community composting, repair workshops, item-sharing programs, and sewing centers. These initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but also strengthen community ties and social cohesion.

Who Can Apply?

Both individuals and organizations, including churches, public universities, academies, and homeowners’ associations established for over a year, are invited to apply for the subsidies. Funding amounts vary by category:

• Public greenery, circular economy, nature conservation, and ecological education: Up to 450,000 crowns per project.
• Climate change adaptation and mitigation: Up to 600,000 crowns.
• Educational programs for schools: Up to 900,000 crowns.

Applications will undergo a two-stage review process, assessing compliance with formal requirements and evaluating content based on criteria such as purpose, necessity, effectiveness, cost efficiency, and feasibility.

Approved projects must be completed by the end of 2026, with funding decisions finalized by June 30, 2025.

Resources for Applicants

Detailed information and application forms will be available on the praha.eu portal. Applicants can also consult with the Environmental Protection Department of the Prague City Hall via phone or email.

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Gas imports to the Czech Republic from Russia have soared in recent weeks, with over 95% of November’s supply coming from Slovakia, marking a significant shift in the country’s energy sourcing.

Until recently, most gas entered the Czech Republic through Germany, but the rising cost of German transport fees and the lower market price of Russian gas have made Slovakia the preferred route, according to Net4Gas transport statistics.

Russian Gas: The Cheapest Option for Czech Traders

Gas supplies from Russia to the Czech Republic sharply declined after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with imports dropping to nearly zero for much of that year. However, since last autumn, Russian gas has made a slow but steady comeback.

While earlier this year, 55% of gas imports arrived from Germany, this balance shifted dramatically in November, with gas from Slovakia accounting for more than 95% of the supply.

On a single day in November, over 151 gigawatt hours of gas passed through the Lanžhot border point with Slovakia, while only 5 gigawatt hours flowed through the Brandov entry point from Germany.

Analysts Explain the Trend

The price advantage of Russian gas is a key driver behind this shift. Germany imposes a transport fee of €2.50 per megawatt-hour, making its imports less competitive.

Net4Gas spokesman Vojtěch Meravý confirmed the shift in supply routes but noted that the company, as a transmission operator, does not trade gas or determine its origin. Experts, however, agree that most of the gas entering via Slovakia is likely Russian. “Although the exact origin cannot be verified, the probability of it being Russian is very high,” added Tyleček.

Barbora Formánková of EFG also identified Slovakia as the main transit country for Russian gas. Meanwhile, economist Lukáš Kovanda from Trinity Bank highlighted that small volumes of Algerian gas, recently secured by ČEZ, also flow via Slovakia, though they represent a minority share.

Criticism Amid Growing Dependency

Despite the economic rationale, the increasing share of Russian gas in the Czech Republic’s supply mix has raised concerns. Following the start of the Ukraine war, the government and businesses emphasized reducing dependency on Russian energy. Yet, current market conditions—dominated by price competitiveness—are challenging those commitments.

“European reserves are sufficient for winter, but traders are prioritizing price over principles,” remarked Formánková. Moreover, Kovanda noted that most imported gas is consumed domestically, dispelling the notion that the Czech Republic serves only as a transit hub for Russian energy.

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