Find and enjoy surprising Czech gems
See Czechia from a different angle and discover places remaining hidden to most tourists. Whether you’re staying in Prague or in other parts of the country, we’ve got you covered. Here are tips on where to go for experiences many others don’t know about.
See before you die
How about a visit to the apartment you “officially” must see before you die? We’re not exaggerating, we’re just quoting part of the title of the bestseller 150 Houses You Need to Visit Before You Die. The book includes Hirsch’s apartment in Prague, among the world’s top architecture. It was designed by one of the founders of modern architecture, Brno-born Adolf Loos. You’ll also see chairs on which Freud, Klimt, or Schiele sat! Why did they sit on them? You’ll find out on the tour.
‘Loos’ yourself
Impressed by Loos’ work? No wonder – the architect influenced the most important personalities of his time, including the famous urbanist Le Corbusier. They shared a love not only of modern architecture but also of legendary dancer Josephine Baker. Loos even designed a villa for her. However, it was never built due to jealousy between the two men.
Fortunately, Loos completed many other buildings. In Prague, don’t miss a tour of Müller’s Villa. Or stay overnight in one of his masterpieces! After a tour of Winternitz’ Villa, you’ll get the keys and become its “owner” for a few hours.
The genius architect was not only active in Prague. You can also admire his work in Pilsen, where you can visit four of Loos’ interiors! Or at least have a drink in the pleasant café in Semler’s residence by Loos.
In the secret room with Klimt
The café in the Art Nouveau Primavesi villa in Olomouc is no less pleasant. Coincidentally, its story is also linked to Klimt, who was Primavesi’s friend and assisted in decorating the house. You might know his painting of Eugenie Primavesi – yes, she’s the owner of the villa. You can explore the building’s interior on a guided tour. The atmosphere of the Art Nouveau period is particularly enjoyable when you spend a night in the Secret Room.
Architectural rebel
Art Nouveau curves with a touch of folklore will also enchant you at the Nové Město nad Metují chateau. Interiors such as this – Baroque and Renaissance decoration but furnished in the Art Nouveau, Cubist, Art Deco, and Functionalist styles – are unlike anything you’ll see in any other chateau. The kitchen, which was used to cook for the first Czechoslovak president, is amazing too. You can enjoy a picnic in the garden or stay overnight in the palace!
Become the Lord of the Rings
Finally, we have a tip for lovers of architecture as well as of technology, computer games, and Tolkien’s novels. An unforgettable experience awaits you under the surface of Brno. The Yerebatan cistern in Istanbul, a computer game, or Tolkien’s mysterious Mordor? Visitors to these historic water reservoirs liken the spaces of this technical monument to all sorts of real or fantasy places. What comes to your mind?
