Summary
It is widely recognized that the city of Pilsen is essentially the birthplace of beer. The name itself indicates that Pilsner lager originated here, making it an ideal location to satisfy your curiosity about the Czech Republic’s most renowned export.
The historic district has deep connections to this vital industry and merits your attention, particularly the architecture surrounding the Square of the Republic. This area features captivating Gothic and Renaissance buildings amidst various attractions vying for your interest. Here, you will discover the tallest church tower in the Czech Republic and the third-largest synagogue globally. Moreover, you can explore the city’s underworld, which consists of extensive subterranean tunnels that have persisted since medieval times, historically used for beer production and storage.
Let us delve into the top activities to experience in Pilsen:
1. Pilsner Urquell Brewery
A comprehensive introduction begins at the brewery responsible for exporting Pilsner Urquell to over 50 countries worldwide. Established in 1842, Urquell was the first blond lager and its innovative bottom-fermentation technique has influenced approximately two-thirds of all beers consumed globally.
This SABMiller facility comprises several breweries housed in one location. English-speaking tours are offered three times daily, allowing visitors to explore both the modern and historic brew houses, the water purification plant, lagering caves, and the packaging line.
This is an excellent option for those seeking an experience centered around the production of one of the world’s most beloved alcoholic beverages.
2. Brewery Museum
Pilsen rightfully boasts one of the world’s premier beer museums, located in a 15th-century brewhouse. Visitors will gain insights into the Czech Republic’s longstanding affection for beer while exploring an extensive array of beer-related artifacts.
Guests can enter a traditional Pilsen-style pub and examine various brewing instruments from different eras, as well as discover the myriad ways to enjoy beer. A malt shop, malt kiln, and original medieval cellars of the brewhouse await your exploration.
The visit concludes with an opportunity to savor a well-deserved glass of Pilsner Urquell.
3. The Pilsen Historical Underground
While Pilsen has transformed significantly above ground throughout the centuries, the underground passageways have remained undisturbed since medieval times. Therefore, take advantage of the opportunity to explore this hour-long tour that guides you through a labyrinth of tunnels and cellars.
The tour commences with an explanation of the early beer-making process, during which ice was stored at an upper level and its meltwater redirected into fermentation vats below.
Visitors will also observe approximately 20 wells and pits and learn how these tunnels played a crucial role in the city’s defense during times of siege.
4. Cathedral of St. Bartholomew
The Cathedral of St. Bartholomew represents the pinnacle of Pilsen’s architectural landscape. The first stone of this magnificent structure was laid in 1342. Unlike many European churches, this cathedral has retained its original form since its consecration, thereby earning its status as one of the country’s national cultural treasures.
A fascinating aspect of St. Bartholomew’s is that its tent-like roof shape permitted the building to be utilized for services even before the completion of its walls.
Upon completion, the tower was a record-setter, and it continues to stand as the tallest church tower in the nation.
5. Town Hall
Since the 15th century, this building, renowned for its magnificent Renaissance facade, has served the same municipal function. Acquired by the city in 1407 to function as the Town Hall, it was the largest building in Pilsen at that time.
Following a fire, the Italian architect Giovanni de Statia was commissioned to enhance the building with decorative elements. Above the first floor, the facade features a sgraffito, a special fresco, representing the city’s coat of arms and notable historical figures.
Admission to the Town Hall is complimentary, and guided tours are not required. Feel free to explore and be sure to take a look at the scale model of Pilsen’s historical center located beyond the foyer.
6. Great Synagogue
Pilsen has harbored a Jewish community since the 1300s, at one point hosting five synagogues. Presently, this structure remains one of two standing, ranking as the second-largest in Europe and the third-largest in the world, following those in Jerusalem and Budapest.
Today, it serves as a poignant reminder of a community that was tragically displaced during the 20th century; however, its interior features a beautifully ornate Moorish-style design that merits a visit.
After World War II, the building underwent renovations, and today, the Great Synagogue serves a dual role, functioning as both a place of worship and a concert hall with its own orchestra, prized for its perfect acoustics and classical organ.
7. Pilsen Zoo
This modern zoological attraction, which eschews traditional enclosures, is recognized as Western Bohemia’s leading family outing. Following comprehensive renovations in 1996, the zoo complies with the highest European standards for animal welfare.
Forty species within the zoo participate in the European Endangered Species Program, and it also aids breeding initiatives for dwarf and fat-tailed dwarf lemurs. The zoo hosts a total of 6,991 animals across 1,210 species, and children particularly enjoy the presence of Humboldt Penguins and Pygmy Hippos, regarded as some of the most charming animals in existence!
Your admission ticket also grants access to the botanical gardens and the DinoPark, featuring moving models of beloved dinosaurs.
8. Museum of West Bohemia
This museum ranks among the largest in the Czech Republic, housing an impressive collection of two million items. Military historians frequently visit to view the Pilsen City Armoury, which boasts an extensive assortment of weapons spanning three centuries.
What distinguishes this collection is the remarkable variety of firearms, including primitive armaments intended to breach castle walls and genuine muskets dating back to the Thirty Years’ War.
Design enthusiasts should not overlook the museum’s exquisite art nouveau library, which houses numerous first editions.
9. Techmania Science Centre
Funded by the automobile manufacturer Skoda, this interactive museum occupies a former facility of the brand and is designed to blend education with enjoyable experiences, promoting creative thinking about science among children.
The expansive centre spans 3,000 square meters, brimming with engaging games and experiments. Numerous exhibits encourage active participation from children, applying physical and chemical principles. Additionally, trained experts conduct demonstrations, showcasing phenomena such as static electricity and exploding bubbles.
For adults interested in automotive history, the permanent exhibition dedicated to Skoda’s legacy features the world’s first fiberglass chassis, introduced in 1963.
10. Plague Column
Marian Columns emerged throughout Central Europe during the early-modern period to commemorate the end of plague outbreaks, celebrate narrow escapes, or even to deter local outbreaks during epidemics.
This particular column is situated in the Square of the Republic adjacent to the Town Hall and dates back to 1681 when Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II took refuge in Pilsen amidst a spreading epidemic.
Designed by local architect Kristian Widman, the column features a gilded statue of the Madonna and Child atop its plinth.
11. Republic Square
When initially conceived, Pilsen’s central square was the largest urban plaza in Europe. It is surrounded by elegant Gothic and Renaissance structures, housing many of Pilsen’s most significant landmarks, including the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, the Town Hall, and the Plague Column.
During significant events, such as the Pilsen Liberation Festival in early May, the square is a focal point, featuring displays of vintage military vehicles and equipment paraded by war veterans.
The Pilsner Fest in August stands as the country’s largest beer festival, with live music and booths dedicated to local breweries.
12. Puppet Museum
This compact museum located in the Square of the Republic is deeply rooted in Bohemian culture, showcasing the history of puppetry in Pilsen. For centuries, itinerant puppeteers roamed from town to town, though a permanent stage was established at this site in the 1800s.
Performances were not exclusively for children, often imbued with sharp satire and provocative humor. Exhibits include puppetry artifacts from numerous prominent families who have practiced this art form throughout history.
Children will particularly enjoy the interactive area where they can manipulate puppets themselves, while staff demonstrate traditional puppetry techniques.
13. Patton Memorial Museum
Bohemia is home to the only military museum honoring American General George Patton, who commanded the United States’ Third Army during World War II. The Czech Republic holds a special regard for Patton, attributing its liberation to his efforts.
This museum is a must-visit for those interested in military history, as it features over a thousand artifacts that transport visitors to the chaotic final months of the war, including exhibitions that recreate the bombing campaign that devastated Pilsen’s Skoda plants.
The displays encompass weapons, documents, military memorabilia, field rations (including unopened food cans), and an evocative exhibition of contemporary photographs.
14. J.K. Tyl Theatre
The J.K. Tyl Theatre serves as Pilsen’s primary venue for a variety of performance arts and hosts an extensive program of shows year-round, including 18 premieres annually. The theatre features a roster of specialized local artists contributing to performances encompassing ballet, opera, musicals, and dramatic works. The programming has included high-profile operas such as The Barber of Seville and plays by Shakespeare and Chekhov in recent years. Additionally, popular international productions like Monty Python’s Spamalot and Chicago have also graced the stage. It is advisable to check the listings upon your arrival to discover events that pique your interest.
15. Bohemia Sekt Winery
While beer is the highlight of Pilsen, the southern region of Bohemia also produces a selection of wines. Notably, if there is a family celebration in Bohemia, you can expect that a bottle of Bohemia Sekt sparkling wine will be present.
A visit to the winery located in Starý Plzenec offers insight into seven decades of local expertise that contribute to every bottle. The winery’s origins trace back to the post-war period when brewing facilities were repurposed for wine production, guided by the French oenologist Louis Girardot who brought the finest French techniques to the practice.
After a two-hour tour, you will leave with greater knowledge about one of the country’s most beloved brands.
