In 1784 under Joseph II, the four up-to-then independent Prague municipalities – Staré Město, Nové Město, Malá Strana, and Hradčany – merged into one single entity – the Royal City of Prague. The anniversary of the merger falls on 12th February. It was a big step to make Prague a more modern city. The four independent and still largely medieval towns had to merge into one single entity to be able to keep up with the modern world. Manufactories had to be built and they brought along a new lifestyle which attracted a lot of peasants into towns. After the merger, Prague became the second biggest city in the Habsburg Monarchy, the biggest one being Vienna. At that time, Prague covered 143 hectares and had a population of approximately 76,000 inhabitants. It might come as a surprise that most of the inhabitants of that time did not speak Czech. The new Royal Capital City was immediately divided into four districts labeled with Roman numerals: Staré Město, i.e. Old Town (Prague I), Nové Město, i.e. New Town (Prague II), Malá Strana, i.e. Lesser Town (Prague III) and Hradčany (Prague IV). The city administration and the city council had a seat in...
Turkish low-cost carrier Pegasus Airlines is taking off with a brand new direct flight between Prague and Antalya, Turkey, starting May 19th, 2024. The twice-weekly service (Thursdays and Sundays) will offer convenient connections for travelers seeking sunshine and stunning beaches. Tickets are already on sale, with tempting one-way fares starting as low as approximately CZK 2,300. This competitive pricing adds to the existing options provided by Czech airline Smartwings and fellow Turkish low-cost carrier SunExpress. With three airlines vying for your business, travelers can expect a potential price war, leading to even more affordable flights between the two popular destinations. Currently, competitors Smartwings and SunExpress offer one-way tickets for March 2024 at CZK 4,200 and CZK 3,850, respectively. Pegasus’ entry into the market is likely to shake things up, potentially bringing down prices and making a trip to Antalya even more accessible for budget-conscious travelers. Antalya is the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast outside the Aegean region with over 2.6 million people in its metropolitan area. While the city itself only has modest elevation changes, Antalya has high mountains in all directions to its interior. With moisture being trapped, the local climate thus has high winter rainfall, while...
Prague’s beloved short trams are set to become a rarity as the city embarks on a major tram fleet upgrade. The recent order of 40 Škoda ForCity Plus 52T trams, with an option for 160 more, marks a significant step towards a complete generational renewal. While these modern trams boast improved comfort and accessibility, they also spell the end of the era of classic solo cars like the Škoda 14T and the iconic T3 design. Jan Šurovský, Prague’s transport company’s technical director for surface transport, explains that the new trams won’t come in a shorter version due to various reasons. Instead, the need for shorter trams on less busy lines will be addressed by modernizing the existing T3 trams for night operation. This modernization project involves purchasing 65 more facelifted cars for the existing fleet, with each tram costing around CZK 10 million. The new Škoda ForCity Plus trams also address the long-standing issue of track wear and tear caused by older tram designs. Unlike the 14T trams with their unique wheel design and higher axle load, the 52T features conventional swivel bogies at the edges and non-rotating bogies in the middle, offering a more sustainable solution for Prague’s track...
The once-grand Vyšehrad railway station in Prague 2, left derelict for years, has been sold to an unknown developer through the company Vyšehrad Rezidence, Novinky.cz reports. The Seznam Zprávy server further revealed that micro-apartments are planned for the site, with developer and investor Milorad Miško Miškovič behind the project. Previously, the monument was owned by the Cypriot company Miquelira Limited through RailCity Vyšehrad. Since its 2007 sale by Czech Railways, various investors have attempted to redevelop the station, hampered by conservation regulations and leading to its current state of disrepair. In recent years, the city unsuccessfully sought to purchase or exchange the building. “The only thing I can say is that the buyer is a renowned European developer,” Ondřej Plánička, legal representative of the new owners, told Novinky.cz. He promised “a really nice project” but offered no specifics. Jaroslav Němec (Pirates), a Prague 2 deputy who initiated the “Save Vyšehrad Station” petition, sees the change in ownership as a potential for restoration. “We are buying a project… with about 170 residential units and ample underground parking,” Miškovič told SZ Byznys, adding plans for hotel-like exteriors, public services, and 11 retail units. Construction is expected to take two years. Miškovič, known...
The four-day workweek is gaining traction across Europe, with Germany leading the charge through a nationwide pilot program involving dozens of companies. While this trend might seem alluring, the Czech Republic finds itself at a crossroads, unprepared for full-scale implementation due to unique economic and cultural factors. Currently, enjoying a four-day workweek remains a rare privilege in the Czech Republic. Only a handful of companies offer it, and even then, with obstacles. “This benefit comes with demanding performance targets,” warns Dagmar Rottová, sales director at Citfin. Psychologist Jan Lašek echoes this concern, highlighting the potential strain on “memory, attention, and overall concentration” under a condensed schedule. Additionally, industries like construction and service sectors seem ill-equipped for such a shift. “It’s simply impossible for us,” says a café and bakery owner. “We’re open seven days, and hiring more staff wouldn’t be financially viable.” Official recognition or government-led trials are absent in the Czech Republic. The perceived limited applicability, primarily benefiting office workers, further complicates matters. “Sales, dealerships, and call centers are some roles where this system might work,” confirms Rottová. For Jiří Halbrštát, a labor market expert, success hinges on “internal company adjustments, like boosting productivity or automating tasks, to maintain...
Nestled behind the bustling commotion of Palladium, are a few side streets that ooze with Prague’s distinct culture as a city, where each store holds its own specialty and a new way for customers to connect with the city. In these side streets, you’ll find MyFlorist, a unique floral boutique that stands out not only for its stylish arrangements but also for the personal touch of its owner, Katka. MyFlorist caters to a diverse clientele, thanks to Katka’s fluency in English. In a city teeming with expatriates and tourists, this skill is invaluable. “Speaking English is very handy when it comes to dealing with customers from various backgrounds, many of them mention that when explaining their ideas, they often encounter a language barrier,” Katka points out. Originally from Slovakia, Katka moved to Prague 22 years ago to work in the business aviation industry. However, a deep-seated passion for floristry, inspired by her father’s love for gardening, led her to change her path after his passing. She created MyFlorist, blending her skills in VIP customer service, from her previous career, with her love for flowers. The commitment to quality at MyFlorist is paramount. “Keeping huge stocks of flowers each day is...
An EU effort to impose sanctions on Israeli settlers attacking Palestinians in the West Bank has stalled due to objections from Hungary and the Czech Republic, diplomats say. The two staunch allies of Israel made clear in an EU committee on Thursday they were not ready to let the proposal go forward for now, said four diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity about internal EU deliberations. Some said a compromise may be found later to let the measures proceed, possibly after more EU sanctions on Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that triggered the current Middle East crisis. While much international attention has focused on that cross-border assault from Gaza and Israel’s subsequent war there, European officials have also expressed increasing concern about rising violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The United States and Britain have expressed similar concerns and have already imposed sanctions on several settlers they say are responsible for violence. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in December he would propose similar measures. But EU sanctions require unanimity among member states and the bloc has yet to find agreement – a reflection of broader divisions on the Middle...
The price difference for cigarettes between the Czech Republic and Poland has reached a historic record following the recent increase in consumption tax. For more expensive brands, it’s already approaching fifty crowns per pack, Novinky.cz reports. For instance, a pack of Marlboro cigarettes in Poland costs 102 crowns in conversion from złoty, while in the Czech Republic, it’s 145 crowns. Sellers in Polish border towns claim that 90% of customers are currently Czech. As of February 1st, the increase in consumption tax for cigarettes, smoking tobacco, and cigars is ten percent. “We can say that 90 percent of the customers who buy cigarettes here are from the Czech Republic. And the number is growing,” smiles Agnieszka, a worker at a small shop in the Polish village of Chalupki, less than ten minutes by car from nearby Bohumín. The rise in retail prices will be reflected in the coming weeks as retailers sell off old stock. Over the next three years, tariffs on these products will increase by five percent annually. The new consumption tax on electronic cigarettes will be introduced on April 1st, 2024, with a rate of 2.50 per milliliter in 2024 and rising to 10 crowns per milliliter...
Are you a lover of fun, good food, music, and dancing? If so, you must join the Masopust carnival this year! There are several options to pick from in Prague. You can follow tradition and wear a mask, or simply join in to experience the magical atmosphere. Prague is preparing for one of the most anticipated and colourful events of the year – Masopust 2024. This ancient holiday combines a masked parade with delicious food. Masopust serves as a celebration of the new economic and agricultural year. If you’d like to see it for yourself, here are some events you can attend in the Czech capital. Malá Strana Masopust Date: February 10th, 2024 Time: from 1 pm Where: starts in Loretánská Street, pub U Černého Vola The carnival parade will pass through the picturesque neighborhoods of Malá Strana and Hradčany, with refreshment stops along the way. The festivities will reach their peak at around 4 pm. Visitors can enjoy authentic Masopust specialties and traditional mulled wine. Masopust in Horní Počernice Date: February 10th, 2024 Time: from 2 pm till 5 pm Where: Horní Počernice Theatre, Chvaly Chateau Fun lovers cannot miss the parade with music, dance, and refreshments. Visitors can...
Hundreds of dissatisfied Czech farmers are preparing to join in the ongoing farmers’ protests around Europe against EU policy and the Green Deal. Thousand of tractors are expected to take part in the protest ride on Monday, February 19. The protest is to be centred around Prague’s Malostranske square and may last for several days. Some agricultural organizations and the Czech Chamber of Agriculture have distanced themselves from the protest saying they want to negotiate with the government first. The organizers will ask for the resignation of the current government and withdraw from the so-called Green Deal, a pan-European agreement targeting climate neutrality by 2050, which organizers argue would significantly impact agricultural production. According to Jandejsek, a spokesperson for the movement, addressing the subsidy policy, labor imbalances in the European market, and the energy crisis, where despite a surplus of energy production, the Czech Republic faces some of the highest energy costs in Europe, are pivotal issues. “The Green Deal is a disaster and the Agrarian Chamber is not doing anything about it,” added Jandejsek. “When the government accedes to our demand, there will be peace for a while. If not, we will strike like in Germany”. The Agrarian Chamber...
With the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies and increased interest in converting Bitcoin (BTC) to Czech Koruna (CZK) in cash transactions, users now have a myriad of options to explore. This article aims to shed light on the significance of secure and efficient exchanges, with a particular focus on the offerings of B2Cash, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange located in the heart of Prague. B2Cash facilitates BTC to CZK exchanges, allowing users to sell and purchase cryptocurrencies using cash transactions. Basics of Cryptocurrencies and Exchange In understanding the fundamentals of cryptocurrencies, B2Cash stands out as a reliable platform that allows users to bridge the digital and traditional financial systems seamlessly. The phrase “BTC to CZK” gains practical significance, especially for users looking to engage in cash transactions conveniently. BTC to CZK Exchange Platforms B2Cash is at the forefront of platforms catering to BTC to CZK exchanges, emphasizing the ease and security of cash transactions. A detailed exploration of B2Cash’s features and a comparative analysis with other platforms showcase its commitment to user convenience, making it an attractive choice for those preferring cash transactions. Conversion Strategies and Optimization Within the context of B2Cash, users can benefit from tailored conversion strategies designed to minimize...
The economist Jiří Pour from UniCredit Bank, has highlighted a concerning trend in the Czech Republic’s gas imports, with Russian gas now representing the majority of deliveries, Novinky.cz writes. Despite efforts to reduce reliance on Russian imports throughout last year, the statistics have shifted dramatically since November. Data from NET4GAS indicates a sharp increase in Russian gas imports, particularly through the Lanžhot station from Slovakia, the only entry point for Russian gas into the Czech Republic. This surge is confirmed by the Czech Statistical Office’s foreign trade statistics for December, revealing a substantial rise in the share of Russian gas in total imports, reaching 58 percent. Supplies of Russian gas grew to 5.19 billion crowns in December – more than supplies from Norway – from 1.9 billion crowns in November, 700 million in October and much smaller amounts in previous months, CSU data showed. Mr. Pour points out that while there is speculation about stored gas in Ukrainian reservoirs being imported into the Czech Republic, transit or resale of Russian gas to other countries is unlikely to distort the statistics significantly. The vast majority of imported gas remains in the Czech Republic, with only a small percentage being exported. Moreover,...
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