Kroměříž is one of the key cities in Moravia. This town is a center for spiritual culture and the arts. Due to historic monuments, schools, arts and culture, it has been dubbed “The Athens of Haná”. But unlike many other towns, there are not too many industrial companies in Kroměříž. Although, it is currently characterized by a rapid development of the small business sector. During our visit to this historical town, we visited the Kroměříž gardens and the Archbishop’s Palace.
We were awed by the beauty of the gardens.
No wonder it is recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Before proceeding to the Archbishop’s Palace, we roamed the Kroměříž town square.
My parents, being devout Catholics, had to stop by the Church of St. John the Baptist.
We also strolled along the small businesses permeating through town.
Finally, we reached the Archbishop’s palace.
Probably the most interesting feature of this palace is the extensive collection of paintings and books. In 1984, it was used in the filming of Miloš Forman’s movie, Amadeus.
To know more about Kroměříž, please click here.
The next stop in our day tour was in the Buchlovice Chateau. This chateau is a typical example of a nobleman’s summer residence. It is constructed in Baroque style architecture and unlike the French gardens in Kromeriz, it is surrounded by English-style gardens.
The interiors were awe-inspiring, but picture-taking was forbidden. So I am only able to show you the exteriors here.
To know more about the Buchlovice Chateau, please click here.
The last leg of our tour was the Velehrad. Velehrad is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Moravia. Velehrad began as early as the 13th century, when the Moravian count Vladislav Jindrich, together with his brother King Przemysl Otakar I, originated the first Cistercian monastery in Moravia. In 1990, Pope John Paul II visited this place during his first visit to the Czech Republic.
It is closely associated with St. Cyril and Methodius (10th century). During their mission to Moravia, they brought with them Christian faith, culture and the Cyrilic alphabet. In 1985, during the 1100 years anniversary of the death of St.Methodius, Pope John Paul II donated the Golden Rose to the basilica (only a few cathedrals all over the world obtained this honour).Once a year, thousands of Catholics hold pilgrimage to this place.
To know more about Velehrad, please click here.
It was a day well-spent and it certainly enriched our knowledge about Czech history and Czech culture.
If you are keen on visiting historical, architectural and religious places in Moravia, these places are definitely worth checking out!
Czech the Flip 