PRAGUE

Prague has been the political, cultural and economic centre of the Central Europe for eleven centuries. It was founded in the Romanesque era and flourished in the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods. It became the capital of the Bohemian Duchy and Kingdom, the seat of the Holy Roman Emperors and it played a key role in the Protestant Reformation, the Thirty Years' War and the turbulent events of the 20th century. It is no wonder that the hundred-spired Mother of Cities, brimming with history, is one of the most visited metropolises in Europe. Every year, it attracts millions of tourists who admire, for example, the legendary Charles Bridge and the panorama of Hradčany.


BRNO

Brno has been the heart of Moravia since time immemorial. The city's strategic location in the middle of Europe, together with its proximity to the imperial court in Vienna, has destined it for great things. It is large and important, but at the same time welcoming and relaxed. It is not proud or pompous like other European capitals, with which it can, however, boldly compare. Visitors here seek out the rich culture, delicious cuisine, peaceful atmosphere, great wine and, of course, historical sights. Among Brno's most prominent landmarks is the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, better known as Petrov.


JABLONEC NAD NISOU

In the 19th century, the North Bohemian town of Jablonec nad Nisou was the centre of the glassmaking world – 65% of the world's production of glass jewellery was produced here. The 20th century also began spectacularly for the Jablonec region, when in 1911 alone, Jablonec entrepreneurs handed over to the Habsburg monarchy in taxes the same amount as the entire crown land of Dalmatia. Jablonec was not lacking in tourist appeal either. Today, visitors are attracted especially by the local dam. The vast Mšeno reservoir is a historical technical monument and a great place for swimming and relaxing. Jablonec is also the seat of the Czech Mint.


BRATISLAVA

The capital of Slovakia is steeped in history. The rocky promontory above the Danube river was home to the ancient Celts and Romans, an important centre of the Samo's Empire, the Principality of Nitra, Great Moravia, the Kingdom of Hungary and the Czechoslovak Republic. The castle that rose on it played a key role especially after Bratislava was chosen as the Hungarian crown city and for two centuries became the seat of the monarch, the meeting place of the Diet of Hungary and the home of the crown jewels. The castle was a favourite residence of the ruler Maria Theresa, who brought up her sixteen children here.

Czech Mint