Getting to Know Antonín Dvořák
On a chilly autumn morning, we gathered at the university, ready for another adventure together. Luckily, our wonderful driver had already warmed up the bus for us, so we could start the day in comfort! And before we knew it, after just half an hour on the road, we arrived in Nelahozeves, a charming little village by the Vltava River, offering beautiful views and plenty of history to discover.
Our first stop was the birthplace of the famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák. And what an experience it was! Forget the traditional museum where you simply walk around reading information panels. This exhibition was wonderfully interactive, engaging and full of surprises, allowing us to get a little closer to Dvořák, not only as a world-famous composer but also as a person.
Some of us even tried playing the instrument that Dvořák's father was so skilled at, while others had fun at the photo booth, dressing up in traditional clothing. I was particularly impressed by how creatively everything was presented. And perhaps my favorite moment? Seeing some of us simply settle into a comfortable chair at the end of the exhibition, listening to Dvořák's beautiful music and enjoying the atmosphere.
After such an inspiring start, we had a little time to catch our breath, grab a coffee and get ready for our next stop: Nelahozeves Castle.
A Glimpse into Aristocratic Life
At the castle, we were lucky to have a fantastic and very friendly guide who brought the history of the place to life with fascinating stories and details. We got a glimpse into the everyday lives of European aristocrats, including some customs that seem rather strange from today's perspective!
The castle also surprised us with its impressive collection of artworks and historical treasures. One particularly memorable object was an enormous telescope that, when fully extended, measured incredible ten metres. Just imagine looking at the stars through that!
We also learned about the remarkable history of the Lobkowicz family and how carefully maintained inventories helped them recover valuable parts of their collections after the turbulent events of European history. It was fascinating to discover how something as simple as keeping detailed records could play such an important role in preserving a family's cultural heritage.
Good Food, Great Company and a Walk in Nature
After so much culture and history, we were definitely ready for lunch! Fortunately, we didn't have to go far. Right at the foot of the castle, we found a lovely place to sit down, enjoy some delicious food and drinks, and share our impressions of the day. As always, the conversations and laughter around the table were just as enjoyable as the programme itself.
With our energy restored, it was time to stretch our legs a little. We headed for a short walk along Dvořák's Path, surrounded by the beautiful colors of the autumn forest. The picturesque sandstone cliffs, the peaceful scenery and the railway running alongside the path created a truly special atmosphere. It was the perfect way to slow down, enjoy nature and bring our day to a close.
By the time we boarded the bus back to the university, it was clear that we had made the most of our trip. Some of us were still chatting, while others quickly fell asleep after such a full and enjoyable day!
A big thank you to everyone who joined us! It was wonderful to explore another beautiful corner of the Czech Republic together, learn something new and, most importantly, spend time in great company.
We are already looking forward to our next adventure together. See you on the next trip!
