Discovering Plzeň

Written by BJANKA

Discovering Plzeň: A University Trip Filled with Culture and History

Our university group`s recent trip to Plzeň became a memorable combination of cultural and history exploration. Our experience started with an architectural marvel and continued through a lively festival and an iconic brewery.

Reaching New Heights: The Cathedral of St. Bartholomew

Our journey started at the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, which is famous for having the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic (102.26 meters). The climb up to the top is 300 steps, culminating in a mind-blowing panoramic view. On clear days, the view extends past the city, spanning the peaks of each the Bohemian and Upper Palatine Forests, or even glimpses of the Alps.

A Touch of Luck: The Little Angel of the Cathedral

An interesting part of the cathedral is the sculptural group representing Christ at the Mount of Olives, placed on the rear of the building. Protected with the aid of an iron grating embellished with small angel heads, one unique angel sticks out because of its polished look from being touched too often. Known as the “little angel of luck,” this figure is a loved spot for locals and visitors. So who knows, maybe we left Plzeň with a little more luck.

A Toast to Tradition: The Plzeň Wine Festival

After descending from the cathedral’s heights, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Plzeň Wine Festival. This occasion celebrated the wealthy viticultural traditions of the Czech Republic, presenting several traditional and revolutionary wines. The festival was an educational foray into the world of wine, enhanced by the festive environment complete with local music and a variety of culinary delights. It was an excellent opportunity for us to engage with local culture and taste the region’s diverse offerings.

Exploring Brewing Heritage: The Pilsner Urquell Brewery

Our adventure concluded at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery, wherein we delved into the wealthy brewing history that has made Plzeň a landmark in the beer world. The brewery tour offered an in-depth look at the meticulous process of brewing Pilsner, a style that has influenced global beer production. Sampling the iconic Pilsner Urquell beer directly from the barrel in the historic cellars was a highlight, giving us a taste of beer in its purest form.

Reflecting on Our Journey

Ascending the cathedral steps, experiencing the touch of the “little angel of luck,” savoring local wines, and delving into Czech brewing have been more than mere sports on our itinerary, it was a great opportunity to socialize with our group mates. Each moment allowed us to connect more deeply with each other while enjoying the vibrant culture of Plzeň. The laughter and shared recollections from our adventure to Plzeň will surely remain the highlights of our time together.