Czech Republic

Souvenirs from the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a magnificent country, rich in history and beauty. Popular Czech souvenirs reflect hundreds of years of artisanal craftsmanship and a dedication to the preservation of traditional ways. Delicately perfumed soaps, candles and natural lotions are presented in lovely boxes, while dried flower arrangements bring touches of spring to the cold winter. A truly beautiful memento is a box of hand painted Easter eggs in rich colors, perfect for display year round. Marionettes and puppets are a unique art, molded in plaster or carved wood. You can find them representing fairytale characters, politicians, historical figures, lovely princesses and scary monsters. Wooden toys of puzzles, mobiles and cars are charming souvenirs from the Czech Republic for the young and young at heart. You can always make room in your luggage for beautiful postcards of the countryside, figural magnets of historical buildings, and T-shirts and key chains with Czech slogans.

Czech Republic: Birthplace of Bohemian Glass

Bohemian glass and crystal have been produced in regions of the Czech Republic since the 13th century. Named after Bohemia, where the art originated, it is prized for its stability and clarity. Slightly different mixes of chemicals are used in Bohemian glass and crystal production, resulting in a product that can easily be cut and engraved with decorations. The craftsmen of Bohemia became famous for their skills, and opened a series of schools in the 19th century to teach the methods in a formal setting, and to foster new techniques. As word spread, export of these items rose to new heights, and different products were introduced. Vases, sold in sets of two, decorated with enameled flowers or reproductions of famous painting, became popular decorations in European and American homes. Reverse glass paintings are also an interesting product, created by painting a scene on the back of glass panes. Today, glasses, goblets and bowls are sought out for their Old-World feel. Faceted beads are very popular in jewelry and fashion use, and can be purchased for significantly less in the Czech Republic.