A Prague court on Wednesday acquitted for the second time former Prime Minister Andrej Babis of fraud charges in a $2 million case involving European Union subsidies. Babis had pleaded not guilty and repeatedly said the charges against him were politically motivated. The prosecution can still appeal the verdict. It had requested a three-year suspended sentence and a fine to be paid by the populist billionaire. Prague’s Municipal Court previously acquitted Babis and Nagyova last year in January. In September, Prague’s High Court canceled the lower court’s decision and ordered the case to be retried at the same court. The case centered around a farm known as the Stork’s Nest, which received EU subsidies after its ownership was transferred from the Babis-owned Agrofert conglomerate of around 250 companies to Babis’ family members. Later, Agrofert again took ownership of the farm. The subsidies were meant for medium- and small-sized businesses and Agrofert wouldn’t have been eligible for them. The conglomerate later returned the subsidy. Babis’ former associate, Jana Nagyova, who signed the subsidy request, was also acquitted. Judge Jan Šott said what they did was not considered criminal. Babi has become part of the country’s opposition after his populist ANO centrist...
Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of Franz Kafka’s enduring legacy at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art in Prague. The KAFKAESQUE exhibition, showcasing the captivating influence of Kafka’s work on contemporary visual art, runs until September 22nd, marking the 100th anniversary of his death. Journey through both time and theme. The exhibition delves into the historical significance of Kafka’s writing for 20th-century art, while simultaneously drawing parallels to today’s complexities and ambiguities. Over thirty renowned artists contribute their creative expressions, presenting their artworks in dialogue with Kafka’s literature. This juxtaposition powerfully underscores the timeless relevance of his explorations of existential anxieties and personal struggles, as highlighted by German philosopher Theodor W. Adorno’s observation that parts of Kafka’s work read like descriptions of Expressionist paintings begging to be brought to life. The KAFKAESQUE exhibition fulfills this artistic prophecy. For decades, Kafka’s life and work have presented a captivating puzzle for both scholars and readers alike. Popular masterpieces like Metamorphosis and The Trial have sparked countless interpretations and been translated into dozens of languages. His influence continues to resonate in the works of contemporary authors, visual artists, and musicians. Move beyond mere commemoration. As the DOX representatives aptly state, “The goal of...
When dealing with a Czech real estate agency, you’ll likely come across the term ‘exclusive contract‘ (exkluzivní smlouva). It‘s important to understand the implications of these kinds of contracts and what you need to take into consideration before entering into one. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of these contracts and give you insights into how to set them up correctly. Let’s get started. What is an exclusive contract? Essentially, an exclusive contract means that you, the seller, must cooperate only with the real estate agency with which you have entered into the exclusive contract, and for the entire period of the contract. Disadvantages of an exclusive contract Limited cooperation For the seller, this type of contract is a ‘bet on one card‘. If the real estate agency turns out to be incompetent, you cannot simply terminate your cooperation with them, because you are tied in until the end of the contract. This can be especially annoying if you are in a hurry to sell your property. Penalties and sanctions Any exclusive contract with a real estate agency will include various restrictions, sanctions, and penalties. These are intended to force the seller to maintain their cooperation with the...
In a planned protest blocking the Prague D1 highway on Monday, February 19th, Czech farmers aim to draw attention to their struggles and demand the Czech government’s withdrawal from the European Union’s Green Deal. Up to 1,000 tractors and other agricultural equipment are expected to participate, adding their voice to similar actions across Europe amid rising costs and regulations. While large industry organizations like the Agrarian Chamber and Agricultural Union are holding off on protests until negotiations with the government, organizers Bohumír Dufek and Zdeněk Jandejsek are calling for a strong show of force. They predict 600 to 1,000 tractors arriving in Prague on Monday, converging from various points like Panenský Týnec, Lovosice, and the D1 on-ramp near Benešov. The planned action promises significant traffic disruptions. At 6:00 AM, the machinery is expected to block the motorway in both directions for several kilometers, impacting not only the immediate area but also the broader Prague surroundings and potentially access routes from Central Bohemia Region. Public transport may also be affected. Farmers’ grievances boil down to two main points: Discontent with the Green Deal: Jandejsek calls the agreement a “harmful policy for people” and argues it disproportionately burdens Czech farmers, already facing...
The reconstruction of Prague’s Smíchov railway station has commenced, marking a CZK 5.1 billion investment in the city’s infrastructure. The project includes track and platform repairs, subway reconstruction and expansion, and elevator installation. The renovation will be carried out without interrupting full station operation, as highlighted by Railway Administration (SŽ) spokeswoman Nela Eberl Friebová. The construction inauguration ceremony saw the participation of Transport Minister Martin Kupka (ODS), SŽ Director General Jiří Svoboda, Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda (ODS), and representatives of the construction consortium – Metrostav TBR, OHLA ŽS, Hochtief CZ, and Elektrizace železnic Praha. Over 83% of the funding comes from European funds, with the State Fund for Transport Infrastructure providing national financing. Serving as a crucial link between Prague and Western Bohemia, Smíchov station’s current building dates back to the 1950s. Following its revamp, plans are underway to build a dedicated public transport terminal by 2030. Deputy Mayor for Transport Zdeněk Hřib (Piráti) emphasized the city’s commitment: “Prague will invest an additional seven billion in developing public transport here.” “This railway junction awaits a complete transformation,” declared Minister Kupka today. “We anticipate a transformed station that evolves into a modern terminal facilitating seamless multimodal connections.” According to SŽ, the...
The Czech Republic has experienced an unprecedented surge in temperatures, recording its warmest start to February in over a century. According to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ), select stations saw an average temperature of 6.7°C in the first decade of February, a stark contrast to the nation’s coldest February on record in 1929, when temperatures plummeted to -15.4°C. However, meteorologists urge caution when interpreting this average. It only includes stations with at least 100 years of data, typically located at lower altitudes. Newer stations, particularly those at higher elevations or in mountains, are excluded due to shorter data gaps or inconsistencies. Despite this caveat, the past week has seen numerous daily temperature records shattered. Notably, a quarter of the 165 stations operational for at least 30 years saw new highs for February 9th, followed by a third setting records on Saturday, February 10th. Remarkably, three locations even climbed above 15°C. Sunday night brought another wave of warmth, with the vast majority of stations recording their warmest February night ever. Temperatures mainly ranged between 6 and 11°C, even in traditionally frosty areas, ensuring no frost settled anywhere in the country. The above-average daytime temperatures are set to continue this week, reaching...
Residents of Prague 5 have raised concerns about the presence of drug users in certain areas. In response, the district plans to deploy trained outreach workers starting in April to address potential issues and offer support. Prague 5 Mayor Radka Šimková (Praha Sobě) announced the initiative, highlighting the need for “professionals with the necessary training to communicate with drug users, de-escalate tense situations, and assess the need for further intervention, such as medical attention or social services.” The district will issue a tender seeking organizations with relevant experience to provide at least two workers, with the possibility for more depending on proposals. The program will initially focus on Na Skalce Park in Smíchov and Husovy Sady in Košíře, areas identified as experiencing an increased presence of drug users. However, the initiative remains flexible, with Šimková stating, “We have conditions that allow us to change locations as needed to address emerging concerns.” Residents of Barrandov have also recently voiced concerns, and the program may expand to include their community. Beyond engaging with drug users and offering support, the outreach workers will also monitor public order and address cleanliness concerns. Depending on their training, they may alert authorities to discarded needles and...
The dates for Prague’s biggest Easter markets have been announced, promising visitors a immersion in local tradition. The markets offer a treasure trove of holiday-themed merchandise, traditional food and drinks, and a rich cultural program featuring folk music concerts, children’s workshops, and artisan masterclasses. Old Town Square The markets come alive from March 16th to April 7th, daily from 10:00 to 22:00. A birch tree adorned with colorful ribbons stands tall as a centerpiece, while the observation bridge, decorated with flowers and animal drawings, offers stunning panoramic views. The schedule includes music and dance performances, old arts and crafts demonstrations, decorating Easter eggs, and making candles. Younger visitors will have lots of fun in the children´s workshop in Old Town Square where they can try some of the crafts themselves. Wenceslas Square Operating on the same schedule as the Old Town market, this market boasts a similar assortment and design, reflecting the shared organizer. Every day the markets are visited by 10,000 people looking for some great shopping as well as entertaining cultural programs. Markets here are taking place from March 16th until April 7 from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Náměstí Míru This market welcomes visitors from March 16th to April...
After the immense success of the movie “Cutting It Short”, the Academy Award-winning director Jiří Menzel was begged to do another Bohumil Hrabal’s adaptation. He chose the storybook “The Snowdrop Festival” unraveling the humorous tales of Kersko where Hrabal lived. The result was a tender comedy celebrating Czech cuisine, hunting, and camaraderie. On February 21st, thanks to the “Some Like It Czech” screening series, you’ll get the opportunity to watch this piece with English subtitles and a witty introduction at Kino Aero. Buy your tickets here. The movie “The Snowdrop Festival” (1983, watch the trailer) has a simple, yet very effective plot. Two hunting clubs from Kersko argue who has the right to the dead boar, shot in a thrilling chase right in front of the pupils of a local school. When they finally agree to feast on the catch-all together in a nearby lodge, a much more complicated question comes up. Should the wild boar be served with a rosehip sauce, or with sauerkraut? With Bohumil Hrabal’s inimitable narrative style and Jiří Menzel’s unique approach, a nostalgic but deeply human fresco unfolds before your eyes. The film combines the poetic with realistic description, stylized exaggeration with humorous detailing, happy...
People taking the European Sleeper night train from Amsterdam or Rotterdam will soon have two new destinations to choose from. “We’re going to Dresden & Prague!” the company announced. The Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin night train will run to the Czech capital starting March 25. “Along the way, it also stops in the romantic Dresden, the spectacular nature reserve of Saxon Switzerland, and in the beautiful Elbe valley,” the company said. The night train departs from Amsterdam Central Station at 10:34 p.m. and arrives in Dresden at 8:29 a.m. and at Prague Main Station at 10:56 a.m. the following day. Ticket prices start at 89 euros for a seat in a shared six-person compartment. You can also book a Couchette compartment for six people for 99 euros per person or four people for 139 euros per person. The most comfortable option is a sleeper compartment for three people at 169 euros per person. It includes a seating area, wash basin, and breakfast. If you book fewer tickets than the number of couchettes or beds in the compartment, you may end up sharing with other passengers. The European Sleeper also pointed out that it is an excellent option for attending the Euro 2024 matches...
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...
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