Ostrava

Located in northeastern Czech Republic, Ostrava is one of the most important cities in the country. It was founded in the 13th century as a fortified town by Bruno, the Bishop of Olomouc, to protect Moravia on the northern end. The city sits at the confluence of four rivers, namely, Oder, Opava, Ostravice and Lucina. Ostrava is well regarded for its typical industrial architecture, having been since long one of the biggest iron producing cities in the world.

Ostrava’s Dolni Vitkovice is indisputably one of the best places to visit in Czech Republic. An erstwhile ironwork factory, this national monument is now known for its exhibition space and art installations.  The Michal Coal Mine was the first coal mine in the region, and can be a great place to explore when in the city.

For a good view of the city, head over to the New City Hall and ask to scale its Watchtower. Another interesting way to spend one’s time here would be to catch a traditional theatre show at the Antonin Dvorak theatre hall, one of Czechia’s oldest performance spaces. The climate in Ostrava is moderately continental. Which means, winters here are cold and often freezing, while summers can be pleasant but cloudy. Snowfall may occur at times, but is generally never abundant.