The Russian Embassy in Prague has introduced a new type of visa targeted at Czechs who align with what Russia describes as “traditional Russian spiritual and moral values.” However, Czech Foreign Ministry spokesperson Daniel Drake has criticized the initiative, calling it part of Russia’s “information war against the West.” Russia’s New “Humanitarian Support” Visa The visa, valid for 90 days, was established under a decree by Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to the Russian Embassy, the visa is open to citizens of countries included on a specific list. These nations, Russia claims, promote “destructive neoliberal ideological positions that contradict traditional Russian values.” The list includes countries such as the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Bulgaria, and Spain. Applicants do not need to demonstrate knowledge of the Russian language, history, or legal system. However, they must provide a criminal record certificate, which must be apostilled or legalized, translated into Russian, and notarized. The embassy notes that the notarization can be completed by a Russian consular official or a certified notary in Russia. Additional Requirements for Residency For those seeking temporary residence, additional documentation is required. This includes proof from the Ministry of Internal Affairs that the applicant does not use narcotics and...
The owners of the former Intercontinental Hotel in Prague have proposed an international architectural and urban planning competition to reimagine Miloš Forman Square, located next to the iconic hotel. The competition’s approval depends on the support of Prague 1’s local government. While Prague city councilors have already endorsed the idea, the Prague 1 councilors are expected to vote on the matter on January 28. If approved, the competition will take place under the auspices of the Czech Chamber of Architects, with CCEA MOBA handling its organization. Architect Igor Kovačević from CCEA MOBA highlighted the complexities of the project, stating, “This is a unique challenge. The square is located above an underground car park and technical spaces, which must be integrated without compromising the quality of the public space.” The competition will prioritize innovative and contemporary solutions that cater to both local residents and visitors to Prague’s Old Town. History of the Square and Controversy Miloš Forman Square, named in 2018 after the renowned Czech director, has been at the center of debate. In 2019, the R2G family office—owned by entrepreneurs Oldřich Šlemr, Eduard Kučera, and Pavel Baudiš—purchased the hotel and its surroundings. Reconstruction efforts began soon after, including plans for...
The Czech Republic is prepared to discuss raising defense spending and 3% of gross domestic product may be a realistic level to reach within several years, Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on Wednesday. The government said this week the NATO member country spent more than the NATO benchmark of 2% of GDP on defense last year for the first time in two decades, but incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has said NATO countries should spend 5%. As of 2025, some NATO members like Italy, Canada, or Spain have not even reached the current 2% target, though the number of allies that do has risen to 24 last year. According to NATO estimates, Poland spent the greatest portion of its GDP on defense (4.12%) in 2024, followed by Estonia (3.43%) and the U.S. (3.38%). Last February, Trump sparked international outrage by saying he would urge Russia to do “whatever the hell they want” to NATO member countries failing to meet defense spending criteria, in a declaration indicating his disregard for the alliance’s collective defense principle. Trump is not the only top official to call for an increase — NATO chief Mark Rutte likewise said last month that “we are going to...
Moving abroad and starting fresh in a new country requires significant courage and determination. Finding employment in a foreign environment can be challenging, but some countries are more welcoming to expats—people living outside their native country—than others. According to a survey by the InterNations platform, Denmark has emerged as the best destination for foreign workers. The Czech Republic, meanwhile, secured 15th place out of 53 countries in the ranking. The survey assessed various factors including the availability of jobs, wages, and, crucially, work-life balance—the equilibrium between professional and personal life. As reported by the Daily Mail, Denmark topped the list, with expats praising the country’s favorable conditions. “The work-life balance is excellent, and taking five to six weeks of vacation is the norm,” shared one Australian expat in the survey. A significant 84 percent of respondents expressed satisfaction with their work-life balance in Denmark, while only one percent fewer highlighted working hours as a concern. About two-thirds of those surveyed also mentioned the opportunity to work remotely on a part-time basis. However, only 60 percent of expats felt they were fairly compensated in Denmark. Saudi Arabia ranked second, with many expats reporting ample job opportunities for experienced professionals. Three-quarters of...
After more than two decades, Prague’s iconic graphics are getting a fresh update filled with creativity and modern flair. The capital is introducing playful illustrations, new pictograms, and even a custom font by renowned Czech designer Tomáš Brousil. And for special occasions? Festive gold is making its debut in the colour palette. Honouring Tradition While Embracing Change Prague’s distinctive logo, designed by Studio Najbrt in 2002, isn’t going anywhere. Instead, the city is enhancing and expanding its visual identity. “We live in a time of rapid change, and we need to adapt,” said Prague’s mayor, Bohuslav Svoboda. “This new design will significantly improve how the city communicates with its people.” Up until now, Prague relied on the Myriad Pro font – but that’s changing. The new typeface, described by city hall spokesman Vít Hofman as “a modern geometric grotesque with wider proportions and unique details,” adds a contemporary and striking edge to the city’s visual language. Subtle Tweaks, Bold Results The refresh goes beyond just fonts. A square motif has replaced the traditional round dot, bringing a cleaner, sharper look to the design. One subtle yet impactful change is the straightening of the leg in the letter R, refining the overall...
Fast food lovers, get ready – Taco Bell is making its way to Europe, and Germany will be the first to get a taste. This summer, the iconic Mexican-inspired chain will open its first branch in Berlin, bringing some serious competition to the likes of McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC. And with plans to expand to five more countries, could the Czech Republic be next in line? Tacos Over Burgers? The buzz about Taco Bell’s European expansion first hit the news last spring, with an initial launch set for summer 2024. However, IS-Holding – the franchise rights holder – decided to push the opening to the summer of 2025. The goal? To roll out up to 150 locations across Germany by the end of 2029. This isn’t just about tacos and burritos – Taco Bell’s entry marks a shake-up in the fast-food scene. While traditional burger joints dominate, Taco Bell offers something different: bold flavours and classic Mexican favourites like burritos, quesadillas, nachos, and, of course, their signature tacos. Expansion Beyond Germany Germany isn’t the only country in Taco Bell’s sights. IS-Holding has confirmed plans to expand to five additional European markets. Although the full list hasn’t been announced, the...
According to a survey by Cushman & Wakefield, which has been tracking new entries for 11 years, 47 brands entered the Czech market in 2024. This is the highest number of brands to enter the Czech market, compared to 40 brands in 2023. The F&B segment is represented by the largest number of brands, as in previous years. In the Palladium shopping centre in Prague, the flagship stores of Lviv Croissants and The Box Donut opened, in the Máj shopping centre the fast food Amerikanos, and in the Quadrio shopping centre the Georgian fresh bar SKA. On Prague’s premium shopping streets (high streets), Georgian fine dining Dergi in Revoluční and Ukrainian fine dining Nai in Kobrová, bubble tea Makamaka in Jungmannova, Matcha Crew in Rumunská, bar Nalyvky zi Lvova in Trojanova, the French olive oil store Oliviers&Co in Dlouhá, and Le Petit Beefbar of the famous steakhouse chain Beefbar on Wenceslas Square were introduced. Jan Kotrbáček, Head of Retail Agency CEE at Cushman & Wakefield: “While previously the majority of brands entering the Czech market came from Western countries, we now see a clear trend where newly entering brands are largely from the East, especially from Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, and...
This January, Manifesto Market is swapping city vibes for mountain charm with Après-Ski in the City, a two-night event full of fun, music, and wintery cheer. Mark your calendars for Friday, January 24, and Saturday, January 25, and get ready for a cozy alpine-style celebration right in the heart of Prague. Alpine Fun Without the Slopes You don’t need a lift ticket to join the party—just show up ready for some après-ski energy! The market will be decked out with ski-themed decor and a warm, festive atmosphere. The fun kicks off at 6:30 PM on both nights with live DJ sets to keep things lively. Friday features DJ Erik and Joshua, while DJ Khaldera takes over on Saturday. The best-dressed guests will be crowned each night at 9 PM, winning prizes and a feature on Manifesto’s Instagram. The drink menu is designed to match the festive spirit. Highlights include “Vosí Hnízdo Please,” a creamy blend of eggnog, brown cacao liqueur, and chai foam. Feeling adventurous? Order two Baron Hildprandt shots and take home a pair of cozy socks to keep your après-ski vibes going. Book your spots and get ready for an unforgettable winter celebration! Event Details When: Friday, January...
The Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti recently reported the largest beer exporters to Russia during the first ten months of 2024. According to their data, the top suppliers are Germany (105.3 thousand tons), the Czech Republic (33.1 thousand tons), and China (29.8 thousand tons). This report gained attention in the Czech media, prompting inquiries about its accuracy. The iDNES portal contacted the Czech Union of Breweries and Malthouses for clarification. However, the organization’s press secretary requested time to verify the figures before commenting. Meanwhile, the Czech News Agency (ČTK) confirmed that the export volume reported by RIA Novosti aligns with official data from the Czech Statistical Office (ČSÚ). Between January and October 2024, the Czech Republic exported nearly 33.1 thousand tons of beer to Russia—equivalent to approximately 62 million half-liter bottles. Russia: A Key Market for Czech Beer During this period, Russia ranked as the third largest export market for Czech beer producers, following Germany and Slovakia. Trinity Bank Chief Economist Lukáš Kovanda revealed that Czech beer exports to Russia increased by 27% year-on-year. The 2024 export volume even surpassed pre-pandemic and pre-invasion levels. For comparison, from January to October 2019, the Czech Republic exported roughly 60 million bottles...
Curious about Prague’s construction plans for 2025? The city is bustling with projects that will reshape its landscape. From long-overdue bridge projects to exciting zoo exhibitions and much-needed schools, some initiatives are nearing completion, while others are just beginning. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening. The Old-New Libeň Bridge: A Major Overhaul in Progress For anyone who has crossed the Libeň Bridge, its deteriorating condition has been evident for some time. The good news is that its long-awaited reconstruction began in 2024. This bridge, a vital transport link between Libeň and Karlín, isn’t just practical; it is a part of Prague’s history. The plan includes a complete overhaul of the structure and revitalization of the surrounding area. In 2025, major construction work is expected to begin, with 800 million crowns allocated to the project. Although the original completion date was set for 2025, the reconstruction will likely extend beyond this. The total cost for the bridge and surrounding improvements is estimated at 2.2 billion crowns. Dvorecký Bridge: Almost There, but Not Quite Another significant project is the Dvorecký Bridge, connecting Podolí and Smíchov. In 2024, construction reached a milestone when both banks of the Vltava River were finally connected....
Gregor Mendel, born on July 20th, 1822, in the small village of Heinzendorf (now Hynčice, Czech Republic) is perhaps one of the most influential yet initially unrecognized figures in the history of science. Though today he is celebrated as the father of modern genetics, his cultural impact on Czech identity is profound and multifaceted. Mendel’s life story, while dominated by his groundbreaking scientific achievements, also intertwines with the cultural fabric of 19th-century Czech society, a period marked by political, social, and cultural transformation. Mendel’s birthplace, situated in what was then part of the Austrian Empire, was deeply embedded in the broader fabric of Czech lands. His German-speaking family, however, was part of a complex ethnic landscape in the Czech-speaking region. This multilingual and multicultural backdrop shaped Mendel’s worldview, which was grounded in the local traditions, language, and folklore of the region. While his work in genetics would earn him international recognition in later decades, his Czech heritage remained an important part of his identity throughout his life. As a young man, Mendel was keenly aware of the political climate in the Czech lands, which were under Austrian rule. This context of national awakening—where Czechs sought greater recognition and autonomy—was pivotal,...
Chivalry wasn’t dead in 1938 when Nazi tanks rolled into Czechoslovakia. It lived on in at least one man: Josef Menčík, also known as the “Knight of Strakonice.” Once described as “the definition of living history,” Menčík owned and refurbished a castle in his native country and took the time to teach medieval history to anyone who would listen. More importantly, when the world decided to allow Nazi Germany to annex the Sudetenland, a large chunk of his country, Menčík rode out to meet Adolf Hitler’s tanks, alone and in full medieval armor. It might have been a foolish gesture of resistance, or even a symbolic one, but it was certainly one of the few acts of defiance against the Nazi regime until that point. Josef Menčík, the Last Knight Despite his love for history, there isn’t a lot history knows about Menčík. He grew up in the Böhmerwald area of what was then Czechoslovakia, a mountainous region that today straddles Germany and the modern Czech Republic. Indeed, it appears that Menčík suddenly emerged from the Bohemian Forests in the early 20th century to do things that few others would, which includes (but isn’t limited to) standing up to the Nazis....
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