On Saturday, November 16th, the Welcome Centre for International Scholars organized an enriching day trip to the historic town of Kutná Hora. Nestled in Central Bohemia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into its medieval past and the wealth it once garnered from its silver mines. The town's charming cobblestone streets, Gothic landmarks, and fascinating history made it the perfect destination for an autumn outing.
The day began early with a prompt departure from the Czech University of Life Sciences (CZU) at 8:00 AM. Upon arriving in Kutná Hora at 9:30 AM, our first stop was the Sedlec Ossuary, famously known as Kostnice. This small Roman Catholic chapel is renowned for its unique and thought-provoking interior, which features intricate decorations crafted entirely from human bones. Learning about the chapel’s history, from its origins in the 13th century to František Rint's artistic arrangements of the remains of approximately 40,000 individuals, was both eerie and enlightening. The visit was a poignant reminder of the transience of life and left a deep impression on everyone.
By 11:30 AM, we were ready to refuel at the celebrated Dačický Restaurant, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch. Known for its authentic Czech cuisine, the restaurant provided us with a hearty meal and a chance to share our thoughts on the morning’s experiences.
After lunch, the group divided into two to accommodate the itinerary’s dual focus: the Church of St. Barbara and the Czech Museum of Silver and Medieval Silver Mine. The Green Group visited the Church of St. Barbara first, while the Orange Group explored the museum.
The Church of St. Barbara, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is dedicated to the patron saint of miners and is a true symbol of Kutná Hora’s mining heritage. Its soaring interiors, adorned with frescoes and a richly decorated altar, left us in awe. The church's unique external pulpit and stunning views of the surrounding town added to the magic of the visit.
Meanwhile, the Czech Museum of Silver and Medieval Silver Mine offered a captivating dive into Kutná Hora’s mining history. The exhibits showcased the town’s rise to prominence as a royal mining hub. One of the highlights of the trip was the guided descent into the medieval silver mine. Although the tight underground corridors initially caused some participants to worry about claustrophobia, everyone rose to the challenge. By the end of the tour, we all agreed it was a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
In the afternoon, the groups swapped locations, ensuring everyone enjoyed both attractions. Following the guided visits, we have all enjoyed some free time, which allowed us to explore the town’s charming streets, tiny shops and coffeehouses and visit smaller landmarks like the Stone Fountain and the Plague Column.
The day’s weather proved to be an unexpected delight. Though chilly, the sun shone brightly, bathing Kutná Hora in golden light and adding to the picturesque beauty of this medieval town.
By 5:00 PM we reunited at the Monastery of St. Voršily, as it was time to head back to CZU, where we arrived at 6:30 PM, tired but filled with new knowledge and memories.
The Welcome Centre for International Scholars would like to thank PhDr. Alena Drebitková Malá, Ph.D., for her collaboration as a guide during the tour and for the invaluable information she shared about the city, its history, and its monuments.
We hope that all participants enjoyed the excursion and that it not only enriched their understanding of Czech history and culture but also provided an opportunity to connect with fellow scholars. We eagerly look forward to the next adventure!