Thursday, November 28, 2024
Sparta Prague enjoyed a fine return to the Champions League on Wednesday, recording a 3-0 win over Salzburg in their first game in Europe’s top club competition in 19 years.
Sparta grabbed an early lead that set the tone for the league-phase opener at the Epet Arena as home fans celebrated their team’s first win in the tournament since 2003.
The hosts opened the scoring just two minutes in when Kaan Kairinen pounced on a loose ball after a great save by Salzburg goalkeeper Janis Blaswich, effortlessly slotting home the rebound.
Victor Olantuji then doubled their lead in the 42nd minute, firing in from a tight angle after taking in a long ball over the top from captain Filip Panak.
Olantuji then turned provider as the hosts killed the game off just before the hour mark, assisting Qazim Laci for a coolly struck finish after a cheap giveaway from Salzburg.
⭐⭐⭐ VÍTĚZSTVÍ
Úspěšný vstup do Ligy mistrů 😍 #acsparta | #UCL pic.twitter.com/Uq1BtHEGZd
— AC Sparta Praha (@ACSparta_CZ) September 18, 2024
Sparta’s victory, their first in the Champions League since beating Lazio 1-0 in December 2003, saw them halt a 14-game winless run in the competition (four draws, 10 losses).
It is also the first time they have ever started a Champions League campaign with a win, on their eighth appearance in the competition proper.
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If there’s ever been a moment for fans of British metal to get excited, it’s now.
The legendary band that helped shape the global metal scene, Iron Maiden, is returning to the Czech Republic. After two years, the iconic group will once again perform in Prague, bringing their greatest hits to the stage in a monumental celebration of their 50th anniversary.
Led by Steve Harris, Iron Maiden has truly done it all. With an impressive discography of seventeen studio albums, forty-seven major singles, and more than 100 million albums sold, the band has left an indelible mark on the music world. They’ve performed nearly 2,500 live shows across more than 60 countries, gathering millions of devoted fans.
Since their formation in 1975, Iron Maiden has remained a dominant force in metal, with a fanbase that spans generations.
The band has just announced their return to the Czech Republic—but this time, they’ll be performing at the Letňany Airport on May 31, 2025. This venue, known for hosting massive acts like Rammstein, The Weeknd, and Imagine Dragons, can accommodate up to 60,000 fans, offering a truly immersive experience.
“Next year is a special year for Iron Maiden,” said lead vocalist Bruce Dickinson. “We’re going to deliver a show like no other. If you’ve seen us before, prepare to have your mind blown. If you haven’t, what on Earth are you waiting for?”
A Special 50th Anniversary Setlist
Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary tour will feature a specially curated setlist, celebrating the band’s incredible journey. Fans can expect hits from nine classic studio albums, ranging from their self-titled debut to Fear of the Dark. While the band has yet to reveal specifics about the stage design for the Prague show, you can be sure it will involve their signature elaborate light shows, fire effects, and, of course, deafening sound.
Get Your Tickets Early!
Tickets for this unforgettable event will start at CZK 2,100, with pre-sale beginning on Tuesday, September 24, and an exclusive pre-sale for fan club members on Wednesday, September 25.
The general public will be able to purchase tickets from Friday, September 27 at 10:00 AM.
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Whether you are spending your exchange in the Czech Republic, or you have been living here for a while, Czech culture can seem strange or bizarre.
Why not tackle it in the most fun way – with movies? The successful screening cycle “Some Like It Czech” from cinema Aero kicks off its fourth season on September 25th with the retro cult comedy “Smoke” (Get your tickets here).
What began as a university project three years ago has gradually evolved into an integral part of the Žižkov cinema Aero program. Every month, the iconic green hall resonates with laughter and the English language, as expats gather to learn more about the country they have chosen to live in.
The wide selection of Czech movies thoughtfully selected to display different facets of Czech culture and history is complemented with English subtitles and a spoiler-free explanatory introduction ensuring that nothing gets lost in translation.
“We want to offer our audience as diverse variety of films as possible, so we don’t just show world-renowned films, but also dramas depicting milestones in Czech history, and beloved comedies that have etched themself into the collective consciousness of every Czech,” says the founder of the project Anna Šenfeldová.
For the grand opening of the season on September 25th, the organizers have selected the cult classic “Smoke”, a quirky satire portraying the absurdities of life under a totalitarian regime. Check out the trailer and the pre-sale.
The next two announced movies include the Oscar-nominated drama “My Sweet Little Village”, screened on October 16th, and the recent box-office hit “Zátopek”, a biopic about the renowned Czechoslovakian record-breaking runner, screened on November 13th.
Wondering what other movies are dropping this season? Take a guess from this trailer!
If you want to know more about the event and the project itself, follow Some Like It Czech on Instagram (@some_like_it_czech) or Facebook (@Somelikeitczech).
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The floods of 2002 represent a natural disaster that caused the most damage in Czechia in modern history.
The Czech National Bank’s 2002 annual report assessed the impact on GDP and inflation as small, with the floods not significantly affecting the Board’s decision.
The macroeconomic impacts, including fiscal ones, were deemed unlikely to be substantial. The report envisaged a slowdown in real GDP growth of between 0.2 and 0.3 percentage points in 2002 while providing an additional positive impulse for the next year, roughly of the same magnitude but with a positive sign.
The recent floods seem less damaging than the devastating event of 2002 in terms of economic cost, yet more severe than the 2013 floods. At the same time, several factors prevented higher losses compared to previous floods.
Meteorologists provided early warnings, which proved to be very accurate. The individual river basins responded by releasing dams to accommodate the massive water influx. The infrastructure was better prepared than at any time before.
Insured losses from this year’s floods are about to reach CZK 17 billion, according to the first estimates of the Association of Insurance Companies.
Approximately half of the damages are incurred by households and the other half by businesses. Individual insurance companies are gradually collecting client reports, expecting tens of thousands of claims.
Costs could impact the budget and inflation
Given the timely warning, more advanced flood control measures, and good organisation before and during the catastrophe, we expect the economic damage to be closer to the 2013 flooding.
We see the overall damage at 0.5% of nominal GDP, while the reported estimate of insured damage accounts for 0.2%. The cost for the general government is estimated to reach 0.3% of nominal GDP or CZK 24bn.
The final bill for the flooding could impact the planned government budget for this year. Some funding for critical events is already budgeted, while some resources can probably be obtained from the EU funds.
The Ministry of Finance has a lot of cash in its accounts and reserves, yet some increase in the supply of Czech government bonds cannot be excluded in the coming months.
We may see a positive effect on consumer prices in the medium term due to higher demand for durable goods as households replace destroyed appliances and cars. The elevated need for construction work will likely provide a boost to prices in this segment.
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Despite the lack of concrete evidence of water contamination from recent floods, Czech Chief Sanitary Doctor Barbora Macková has recommended that all residents temporarily boil tap water before drinking.
Speaking to the ČTK news agency on Tuesday, September 17, Macková stressed that while there is currently no confirmed damage to water treatment facilities or pipelines, precautionary measures should be taken.
Macková emphasized that residents of private homes—particularly those relying on wells—should avoid using well water and instead opt for bottled water or water from imported cisterns.
“At the moment, we have no information indicating any problems. No rise in infectious diseases has been reported in any region. However, floods can create conditions for infections, such as leptospirosis or hepatitis A,” Macková explained.
She also highlighted the start of the respiratory disease season, advising people involved in flood cleanup efforts to wear protective gear like sturdy shoes and gloves to minimize health risks.
“Since infectious diseases can spread even after water dries, and dust particles containing bacteria can be inhaled, we recommend wearing medical masks or respirators while cleaning or assisting others,” the chief epidemiologist advised.
Macková further warned against consuming food that had come into contact with floodwater, citing the risk of food poisoning. Only tightly sealed items, such as canned goods, should be considered safe to eat after a thorough cleaning.
“If glass jars or containers with twist caps have been exposed, they may no longer be sealed properly, posing a potential risk. Personally, I would recommend not consuming any food that was in floodwaters at all,” she added.
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The Czech government and regional authorities are beginning to assess the devastating flood damage and have started releasing the first funds to the affected regions.
The Ministry of Regional Development has already allocated hundreds of millions of crowns for the repair of roads, bridges, and schools.
Additionally, the Czech Republic will apply for financial assistance from the EU Solidarity Fund, while local governments are contributing more resources.
For instance, the Olomouc Region has pledged a quarter of a billion crowns for flood recovery. According to Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura (ODS), the total damage is likely to reach tens of billions of crowns.
The EU Solidarity Fund was established in 2002 after devastating floods impacted Central Europe, including the Czech Republic. Since its creation, the fund has provided over €8.2 billion (CZK 205 billion) to EU countries affected by more than 130 emergencies.
Following a meeting with President Petr Pavel, Finance Minister Stanjura did not rule out the possibility of amending the state budget to accommodate the reconstruction needs. He emphasized that while more precise estimates of the damage will be available soon, the financial impact could reach tens of billions of crowns.
As with previous natural disasters, such as floods and tornadoes, the Ministry of Regional Development (MMR) is overseeing the reconstruction efforts. “We need to ensure that the support programs from various ministries complement each other rather than overlap,” Bartoš noted, adding that a steering committee has been established to coordinate reconstruction in the hardest-hit areas.
The Živel Programme, overseen by the Centre for Regional Development, handles funding applications from municipalities for the repair or renovation of infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, public buildings, and street lighting.
These funds can also be used for the removal of debris from watercourses and related repairs. Currently, CZK 200 million is available for these projects, with up to CZK 20 million per project.
The Ministry will contribute hundreds of millions more from its own resources. By comparison, after the South Moravia tornado, the Ministry allocated CZK 1.3 billion for recovery.
A special emergency aid program is also being prepared for areas where a state of emergency has been declared, which will determine the method of reconstruction and include funding for municipal housing repairs.
The Olomouc Region has already approved up to CZK 250 million in aid for affected municipalities. The funds will be distributed gradually, with the Jesenicko area being the most impacted, although regions like Šumperk and Litovelsko have also suffered significant damage.
Governor Josef Suchánek (STAN) emphasized that although flood protection measures have helped mitigate damage, some areas remain vulnerable.
Troubky, a village in the Přerov district that became a symbol of the 1997 floods, still lacks comprehensive flood protection. “There is an urgent need to improve flood prevention measures to avoid future devastation,” Suchánek stressed.
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Victory Square (Kulaťák) in Prague 6 is about to experience a major shift.
The square has long been more of a busy traffic intersection than a central hub for pedestrians. This is about to change as Prague’s city councillors have approved a significant zoning amendment, taking another crucial step towards revitalizing this iconic space in Dejvice.
Historically, Victory Square has fallen short of its potential. Despite its size and importance as the most prominent public space in the north-western part of the city, the square has remained underdeveloped, with residential and pedestrian uses largely overlooked.
Located between the historical district of Hradčany and the modern buildings from the interwar and post-war eras, Victory Square represents a crossroads between Prague’s past and future.
The square’s original design dates back to 1924, created by architect Antonín Engel. He envisioned the district and its square as a grand, cohesive urban plan, but his vision was only partially realized. Now, nearly a century later, the city is picking up where Engel left off, with new plans that aim to turn Victory Square into a thriving public space.
In 2018, the Pavel Hnilička Architects studio won an urban design competition organized by the Institute of Planning and Development Prague (IPR) to reimagine the square.
Their concept, which will guide the square’s transformation, envisions a central area that will host public gatherings, markets, and cultural events. The goal is to create a space that feels welcoming and accessible to everyone.
“The entire area should be easily accessible for all users—whether they are walking, cycling, driving, or using public transport,” explains Pavel Hnilička, the architect and urban planner behind the design.
This comprehensive revitalization is expected to cost a minimum of CZK 500 million, with additional private investment funneled into the surrounding areas. Private developers, including Sekyra Group, Penta, and Kaprain, will contribute to the transformation by building Quadrant 4, adding a new dimension to the Kulaťák’s urban landscape.
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A new global quality of life ranking by the British Institute for Quality of Life has placed several Czech cities among the world’s top locations to live.
The ranking evaluates cities based on key factors like education, inclusive policies, economy, mobility, environmental protection, and access to green spaces.
The top 37 cities, forming the so-called “gold category,” excel in these areas through real, tangible solutions that positively impact their residents’ daily lives.
Topping the list is Aarhus, Denmark, followed by Zurich, Switzerland, Berlin, Germany, Gothenburg, Sweden, and Amsterdam, Netherlands.
These cities are praised for their commitment to enhancing the quality of life, prioritizing green infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable urban development.
Prague and Brno Among Global Leaders
Among Czech cities, Prague ranks highest at 67th place, surpassing well-known global cities like Lucerne (Switzerland), Tel Aviv (Israel), and Washington D.C. (USA). The Czech capital’s strong performance highlights its emphasis on urban mobility, green spaces, and a growing innovation sector.
Another Czech city, Brno, also made the top 100, coming in at 83rd. Brno’s focus on education, technological advancement, and sustainability earned it a respectable spot on the global scale.
Kladno Surprises, Beating Sydney and San Francisco
One of the more surprising entries is Kladno, a city in Central Bohemia, which ranked 112th, outperforming major cities such as Sydney, Abu Dhabi, San Francisco, and Budapest.
Kladno’s high ranking demonstrates that smaller cities, with the right focus, can outperform global metropolises in quality of life indicators.
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A unique fusion of Czech fashion, design, and art will be on display at the new Ó Gallery in Celetná.
This creative space was founded by goldsmith Hanuš Lamr and fashion designer Zlatka Lamrová, alongside fashion curator Olo Křížová and designer Tereza Váchová.
Located in the Hrzánská arcade, the gallery promises to become a new focal point for the Prague art scene.
The Grand Opening of the gallery will coincide with the full reopening of the Hrzánská arcade on 25 September 2024. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the arcade’s unique architecture and the works of talented local designers and artists showcased at Ó Gallery.
A Space Steeped in History
The Hrzánská arcade itself is a historical gem. Originally rebuilt in the mid-19th century in the Classical style, the passage retains elements of pre-war modernism.
Designer Lukáš Obšil, from the LoA studio, was tasked with the gallery’s renovation. His expertise in balancing historical respect with modern design perfectly aligns with the gallery’s vision.
On 25 September, visitors can explore the latest collections by Hanuš and Zlatka Lamr, including Hanuš’s Lust for Eden jewellery line and Zlatka’s intricate embroideries.
Olo Křížová will showcase limited edition prints of her signature collages, while Mihai Visternicean will present his handcrafted wooden luxury handbags.
Looking ahead, Ó Gallery has exciting plans for future exhibitions. By the end of 2024, visitors can expect a pop-up event featuring Tereza Otáhalíková and her new jewellery collection.
Additionally, Linda Havrlíková will present a line of woolen designer clothing, and the gallery will host a special pop-up from the jewellery collective Bound By Jewellery.
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The Better City for Pets (Lepší město pro zvířata) initiative has recently partnered with Costa Coffee and PAUL French Bakeries in Prague.
These establishments now offer a pet-friendly environment, providing not only free dog treats but also educational materials on responsible pet behavior at selected branches.
Following the success of the first pet-friendly concept at the Stromovka Shopping Center in Letná, the project is now focusing on expanding partnerships with other local businesses.
Pet-friendly locations can be identified by their bright yellow “Dogs Welcome” sticker. Customers can also treat their dogs to complimentary snacks from Pedigree. In addition to water bowls and high-quality food, the initiative emphasizes the importance of educating both customers and café staff on proper pet care and behavior.
“The primary goal is to educate pet owners on responsible behavior with their dogs to avoid any potential issues,” explains Roland Marton, Manager at Pedigree, who oversees the initiative. “That’s why we’ve collaborated with experts to create educational materials that benefit not only dog owners but also other customers who may not own pets.”
Barbora Pleyerová from Costa Coffee is equally enthusiastic about the project: “We are thrilled to participate in the Better City for Pets initiative and create a space where both dog owners and other visitors feel comfortable. We believe that education is key to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.”
The pet-friendly concept will be tested at selected Costa Coffee and PAUL French Bakery branches in Prague. If successful, the initiative plans to expand further across the city.
About the Better City for Pets Initiative
The Better City for Pets initiative is designed to help cities develop safe and welcoming environments for animals. It aims to educate city residents on responsible pet care in public spaces and encourages businesses to adopt pet-friendly policies.
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As the Czech Republic continues to battle severe floods, a remarkable wave of solidarity has emerged among local residents and organizations.
Torrential rains have caused widespread damage, and many people in the hardest-hit areas are struggling to cope. In response, humanitarian organizations and state institutions have mobilized to offer assistance through emergency collections and direct support.
Humanitarian Aid Efforts
Humanitarian collections have been launched by organizations such as People in Need and ADRA, offering both financial assistance and essential supplies like dryers, food, and psychosocial support. These initiatives also provide alternative housing options and deploy volunteers to help with rebuilding efforts in the affected regions.
People in Need has allocated CZK 1 million in direct aid, with teams on the ground in Olomouc and Jesenice actively involved in repairing damage and distributing materials, including sacks for flood barriers.
Meanwhile, the SOS ADRA: Floods 2024 collection has raised CZK 624,000 as of Sunday morning. Donations can still be made via Darujme.cz or directly to the account number 66 8888 66/0300, using variable symbol 391.
Psychosocial Support and Volunteer Action
Beyond material and financial aid, organisations such as Diakonie ČCE and others are offering psychosocial support and crisis intervention. Volunteers are working directly in flood-stricken areas, providing hands-on help with repairs and emotional support to those most affected.
Government and Public Assistance
The Ministry of the Interior has set up a 24-hour emergency hotline at 950 815 815, offering information about evacuation procedures, available assistance, and recovery options for damaged properties.
Anyone looking to support these efforts can contribute to various organised collections. You can donate any amount through trusted organisations such as Diakonie ČCE, the Czech Red Cross, Charity of the Czech Republic, or the Salvation Army, which primarily focuses on aiding the homeless.
Additionally, the Donio portal offers a platform for individuals to support specific families and people affected by the floods. “We’ve launched a collection at Donio to provide assistance to those hit hardest by the floods,” said Iveta Šplíchalová, Donio’s chief marketing officer. The funds will cover basic needs like alternative housing, medical care, and rebuilding efforts. In cases of extreme need, non-profit organisations specialising in crisis response will also receive support.
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On Sunday morning, Prague firefighters and police officers saved a man from drowning in the Vltava River, pulling him to safety after being swept away by the strong current.
The incident occurred near Palacký Bridge, with rescue teams eventually retrieving him from the water between Charles Bridge and Mánes Bridge.
The rescue took place around 7 a.m., at a time when the river’s flow had reached 827 cubic metres per second, a rate that signals the first level of flood activity.
“Several dozen police officers and firefighters were deployed at 7 a.m. to assist a man who had entered the Vltava River in Smíchov and was carried downstream by the current. He became entangled in the reeds near Charles Bridge, where firefighters pulled him out and transported to Kampa,” reported the Prague police.
Interior Minister Vít Rakušan took to social media platform X to express frustration at the unnecessary risks some individuals take, putting extra pressure on emergency services.
He wrote, “I urge everyone once again: our integrated rescue services are already stretched thin. Those who recklessly endanger themselves divert critical resources from where they are truly needed.”
Firefighters have issued repeated warnings about the dangers of navigating or swimming in swollen rivers and waterways.
The weekend saw several other incidents across the country. In Ostrava, police stopped three men attempting to paddleboard down the swollen Odra River, while in the Opava region, several individuals were found windsurfing on the dangerously high waters of Hlučín Lake.
