Hradec Králové: The Crown Jewel of East Bohemia

• HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
• GoodbyeNa shledanou
  [nah shledanou]
• YesAno
  [ah-noh]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
• Thank youDěkuji
  [dyeh-koo-yi]
• Excuse me/SorryOmlouvám se
  [om-loo-vahm se]
• How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yahk se mahsh]
• Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [doh-brye. ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Mluvíte anglicky?
  [mloo-vee-te an-gleet-skee]
• I don't understandNerozumím
  [neh-roh-zoo-meem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseRád bych viděl menu, prosím
  [rahd bikh vee-dyel menu, pro-seem]
• I don't eat meatNejím maso
  [neyeem mah-so]
• Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [nah zdrah-vee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [khtyel bikh zap-la-teet, pro-seem]

• Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mohts]
• Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [ydee pritch]
• Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [zah-vo-ley-teh po-lee-tsee]
• Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [zah-vo-ley-teh dok-toh-rah]
• I'm lostZtratil jsem se
  [ztrah-teel yehm se]
• I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem neh-mohts-nee]

• I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [khtyel bikh koh-peeht]
• I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yen se dee-vahm]
• How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [koh-leek toh stoh-yee]
• That's too expensiveTo je příliš drahé
  [toh yeh pree-leesh drah-heh]
• Can you lower the price?Můžete snížit cenu?
  [moo-zheh-teh sneed-zheet tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-leek yeh hoh-deen]
• It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [yeh yed-nah hoh-dee-nah]
• Half past (10)Půl jedenácté
  [pool yed-nyahk-tyeh]
• MorningRáno
  [rah-noh]
• AfternoonOdpoledne
  [ohd-po-led-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [veh-cher]
• YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
• TodayDnes
  [dnes]
• TomorrowZítra
  [zee-tra]
• 1Jedna
  [yed-nah]
• 2Dva
  [dvah]
• 3Tři
  [tree]
• 4Čtyři
  [chtih-zhee]
• 5Pět
  [pyet]
• 6Šest
  [shehst]
• 7Sedm
  [setm]
• 8Osm
  [ohsm]
• 9Devět
  [deh-vyet]
• 10Deset
  [deh-set]

• Where's a/the...?Kde je...
  [kde yeh]
• What's the address?Jaká je adresa?
  [yah-kah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Můžete mi to ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moo-zheh-teh mee toh oo-kah-zat (nah mah-peh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kdy jede další (autobus)?
  [kdee yeh-de dah-lshee (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Jedno jízdenka (do ...)
  [yed-noh yeez-dehn-kah (doh)]

Hradec Králové, originally known as Hradec, dates back to the 10th century. It was established as a significant trading post and fortified settlement. By the 13th century, it had received city rights, which further solidified its importance in the region. The name 'Králové' was added later, meaning 'of the Queen,' in reference to its historical connection with the queens of Bohemia.

During the 14th century, Hradec Králové became a favored residence of the Bohemian queens. The city's name, translating to 'Castle of the Queen,' reflects its status as a royal dowry town. Queen Elizabeth of Poland, the wife of King Wenceslaus II, significantly contributed to the city's development, including the construction of the Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit.

In the early 15th century, Hradec Králové played a notable role in the Hussite Wars. The city became a Hussite stronghold, aligning with the radical faction led by Jan Žižka. The period saw significant military and social upheaval, with the city's fortifications and strategic position making it a key player in the conflicts that swept across Bohemia.

The late 17th and early 18th centuries marked a period of significant Baroque architectural development in Hradec Králové. Under the influence of Bishop Jan Josef Ignác of Schaffgotsch, the city saw the construction of several Baroque buildings, including the Bishop's Residence and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. These structures contributed to the city's rich architectural heritage.

The 19th century brought modernization and industrialization to Hradec Králové. The city underwent extensive urban planning and development, spearheaded by Mayor František Ulrich. Architect Jan Kotěra designed many of the new public buildings, blending modernist styles with the city's historical character. This era also saw the establishment of important educational and cultural institutions.

Hradec Králové, like much of Czechoslovakia, endured significant hardship during World War II. The city was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1939 to 1945. Many of its residents were persecuted, and its Jewish community suffered greatly. The end of the war saw the liberation of the city and the restoration of Czechoslovak rule.

Following World War II, Hradec Králové experienced significant changes under communist rule from 1948 to 1989. The city saw extensive industrial development and urban expansion. However, this period also brought political repression and economic challenges. The Velvet Revolution in 1989 led to the end of communist rule and the beginning of a new democratic era for the city.

In the post-communist era, Hradec Králové has experienced a cultural and economic revival. The city has invested in restoring its historical buildings and promoting its rich cultural heritage. Today, Hradec Králové is known for its vibrant arts scene, including the annual Theatre of European Regions festival and the Hip Hop Kemp music festival. The city continues to blend its historical legacy with modern development, making it a dynamic destination for visitors.

Hradec Králové is accessible from major cities in Czechia and surrounding countries. The nearest international airport is Václav Havel Airport in Prague, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Prague, you can take a direct train to Hradec Králové, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can drive via the D11 motorway, which also takes roughly 1.5 hours. Buses are another option, with regular services operating from Prague and other cities.

Hradec Králové has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trolleybuses that cover most parts of the city. The integrated transport system allows for easy transfer between different modes. Taxis are readily available, but it's advisable to use reputable services or apps to avoid overcharging. Renting a bike is also a great way to explore the city, as it is bike-friendly with numerous cycling paths.

The official currency in Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Hradec Králové, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Currency exchange offices are also available in the city.

Hradec Králové is generally a safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being mindful of personal belongings in crowded places. While the city does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to medical, fire, and police services. The city has several hospitals and medical clinics that can provide necessary care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress in a smart-casual manner; locals appreciate well-dressed individuals. When visiting religious sites, wear modest clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious areas. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beers. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Hradec Králové like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Take a leisurely walk along the Elbe River and enjoy the parks and green spaces. Engage in conversations with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.