Author: Kateřina Knoppová, Veronika Novotná

The quality of the architectonic complex of the castle Hradec nad Moravicí situated in a large natural landscape park, and precious artistic and historical collections attract many tourists all year round. It is also well known as an important musical center in which numerous extraordinary events are held every year, dominated by the international interpretation competition called The Beethoven's Hradec.

Lower Vítkovice (or Dolní Vítkovice) is a unique place which served for a black coal mining and production of raw steel between the years 1828 and 1998. It was in 1828 when Rudolf I. of Bohemia, the archbishop of Olomouc, ordered that the metallurgical plant be established in Vitkovice. This was the start of the unique place for heavy industrial production which until then was unprecedented in Europe. The industrial giant has now changed into no less unique educational, cultural, and social center with reach beyond the country borders.

To the surprise of many, the main highlight of the trip was snow – for some of the students, the first in their life. In Hradec nad Moravicí, the students visited the famous Bezruč lookout where they enjoyed the beautiful nature and views. After a typical Czech lunch in a local pub, they continued to the Lower Vítkovice in Ostrava. Students were impressed by the site and promised to come back for Colours of Ostrava, a famous music festival happening 13-16th July next year. The trip was very enriching for all of the students, as many new contacts, friendships and photos were made...

Sources: Chateau Hradec nad Moravicí [online] [vis. December 17, 2021]. Available at: https://www.zamek-hradec.cz/en/about/history; Dolní Vítkovice [online] [vis. December 17, 2021]. Available at: https://www.dolnivitkovice.cz/en/about-dolni-vitkovice/