Moravia comprises much of the eastern half of the Czech Republic. The ancestors of the modern-day Moravians settled this area in the ninth century CE and took their name from the Morava River, which is the longest river in the region. Moravia is home to just over a quarter of the nation`s population; it is much more rural than Bohemia, and the pace of daily life moves in a very relaxed and easygoing manner. There are a few large cities located in Moravia, such as Brno, which is the region`s largest city and the second-largest in the Czech Republic. Other major cities in Moravia include Olomouc and Ostrava. Moravia is well-known for its beautiful and varied scenery, which you can see in places such as Podyjí National Park and the White Carpathian Mountains.
Named the City of a Thousand Spires, Prague, one of the most beautiful European capitals, has stood the test of time: 1,000 years of art and architecture have withstood all conflict. Its Old Town Square is the heart of its historic core, with colorful Baroque buildings and Gothic churches. The Charles Bridge is lined with statues of Catholic saints.
Bohemia, the western portion of the Czech Republic, is filled with history that stretches back nearly a millennium. Seven out of the country`s ten most populous cities are located in Bohemia, as are sights such as Karlštejn Castle, the Bohemian Forest, the Elbe River watershed, the Vltava River, beautiful spa towns, and Bohemian Switzerland.
When many people think of the Czech Republic, they think of its castles. There are over 1,200 castles here, with the most famous being Karlštejn Castle. Prague Castle, with an area of 750,000 square feet, is the world`s largest ancient castle. More noteworthy castles can be found in and around Prague, Ceské Budejovice, Ceský Krumlov, and Karlovy Vary.