Czechia marks 106 years of independence with nationwide celebrations today

Events and ceremonies will take place across Prague and other cities, culminating in an evening of honors at Prague Castle.

Expats.cz Staff ČTK

Written by Expats.cz StaffČTK Published on 28.10.2024 09:00:00 (updated on 29.10.2024) Reading time: 2 minutes

Today, Czechia celebrates the 106th anniversary of the establishment of Czechoslovakia, marking a momentous day of independence that has shaped the nation’s identity. Events and ceremonies will take place across Prague and other cities, culminating in an evening of honors at Prague Castle.

Honorary events in Prague

The day will begin with a ceremony at Prague's Vítkov National Monument, where state representatives gathered to pay tribute to Czech independence. Afterward, wreaths will be laid at a monument dedicated to Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the first Czechoslovak president, in Hradčany Square.

At noon, President Petr Pavel will appoint new generals; among the nominees are Military Intelligence Director Petr Bartovský and Military Police Chief Jiří Roček. This will be followed by the highly anticipated evening ceremony at Prague Castle’s Vladislav Hall, where the president will present state awards to 56 selected individuals for their contributions to Czech society.

Free open houses in Prague for Czech Independence Day:

  • Straka Academy: Guided tours of the Czech government seat, including the entrance hall, meeting hall, press rooms, and garden.
  • Thun Palace (Chamber of Deputies): Access to the main meeting hall, ceremonial staircase, Dagmar Burešová Hall, and press atrium.
  • Valdštejn and Kolovrat Palaces (Senate): Open tours of Audience Hall, Knight's Hall, and Mythological Corridor, plus a new exhibit on Czech state symbols.
  • Petschek Palace (Ministry of Industry and Trade): Tour the historic Gestapo site, period rooms, renovated bank safe, and film locations, including “Jojo Rabbit.”
  • Rohan Palace (Ministry of Education): View the Big and Small Hall of Mirrors, minister’s office, and a special exhibition on ministry history.
  • Ministry of Agriculture (Těšnov): Explore former minister’s apartment, study, and historic rooms designed by František Roith.

Paying tribute to history and tradition

Several other ceremonies will be held to honor fallen Czechoslovak legionnaires, with a memorial service organized by the Czechoslovak legionary community in Prague's Pod Emauzy Square. Religious services are also planned for the afternoon, led by Prague Archbishop Jan Graubner and other prominent clergy.

Nationwide celebrations

Across Czechia, celebrations range from open houses at government buildings, including the Straka Academy, the seat of the Czech government and ministries, to regional events in cities such as Brno, Ostrava, Pardubice, and Olomouc. The Straka Academy will also be illuminated in national colors, symbolizing Czech pride. The Sokol Run of the Republic will also unite communities in a commemorative athletic event honoring Czech heritage.

The Metoděj Vlach Aviation Museum in Mladá Boleslav will stage military reenactments of the Battle of Zborov, a World War I battle with significant Czechoslovak participation, adding a historical dimension to the celebrations.

This year's events not only pay homage to the country’s foundational moments but also highlight Czechia’s dedication to preserving the legacy of independence through national pride and unity.

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