Karlovy Vary Guide

Carlsbad (Karlovy Vary) City Guide

The best known and the largest spa in the Czech republic were originated in around 1350. The Roman Emperor and the Czech King Charles IV raised its status in 1370. The end of the 19th century determined the final architectural outlook of Carlsbad. The renowned sights are represented by: The Church of St. Andrew, the orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul, the Municipal Theatre, the Mill Colonnade (Mlýnská kolonáda) and the Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene. The spa town is surrounded by romantic hilly countryside – the foothills of Krušné hory.

The fame of Karlovy Vary has spread into the whole world thanks to its mineral springs. There are 12 healing springs rising in the spa. Their basic compositions are similar but they differ in temperature and the amount of carbon dioxide, and that is why their effects are different as well. The colder springs usually have a slightly purgative effect while the warmer ones make the production of bile and stomach juices slower. The strongest is the spring Vřídlo, rising from the depth of 2000-3000 metres. The temperature reaches 73° C. The temperature of the other springs is around 40° C. The springs cure mainly metabolic disorders; they are also used for inhalations and baths.

The tradition of Czech spas is an inseparable part of the European cultural heritage. Due to the high quality of their curative resources, they have won fame and recognition in Europe and found their place in the history of medicine and balneology. However, Czech spas do not only mean health cures, but also recreation, rest, and a refuge from everyday stress. All of this is combined with a pleasant environment, rich cultural life, sports and entertainment. In addition, you can combine your stay with a trip to any of the romantic chateau parks, medieval castles, churches or monasteries in the surroundings.