There are several tourist attractions in the Pilsen Region, but the most popular ones are in the city bearing the same name. The city is best known as the birthplace of pilsner beer, but there is more to it than that.
Location
Pilsen city is in Bohemia. From Prague, you can reach the city by train or bus. The buses depart from the Zlicin station (line B). The trip takes an hour by bus or an hour and 40 minutes by train.
What to See
The 13th century St. Bartholomews Cathedral is known for its 102.26 m / 335 ft tower, the highest in the country. Visitors can also check out the town hall constructed from 1554-1559. At the Old Town area is an elaborate system of tunnels and cellars made up of three levels.
Another one of the tourist attractions in the Pilsen Region is the Great Synagogue, the third largest in the world. Other notable landmarks are the Pilsner Urquell Brewery and the Pilsen Zoo.
Visitors can also check out the Municipal Armoury, a well preserved armory dating from the Middle Ages. The firearms collection here is extensive and one of the best in the world. There are also firearm displays from the 17th century and the Cold War era.
History
The city was first mentioned in 976. It was referred to as a castle and the site of a battle between Emperor Otto II and Duke Boleslaus II of Bohemia. In 1295, the name was being applied to the whole town where the castle was located. It was accorded this status by King Wenceslaus II.
In no time at all, the place became very important as a trade route. It had become the third biggest town in Bohemia by the 14th century. It was also the location of the Catholic resistance at the time of the Hussite Wars. The first published book in the country appeared in the city in 1468.
Cost
Airfares to the Czech Republic cost about 1,000 USD.
Other Info
There are several museums in the city. Some of the most popular are the West Bohemian Museum, Ethnography Museum of the Pilsen Region and the Brewery Museum. The latter showcases the history of brewing in the city.
Those who are checking out the tourist attractions in the Pilsen Region may also visit the Patton Memorial Pilsen. A very popular destination is the Ghost Museum which focuses on legends and myths.
