Sometimes it is called the Czech Republic.
Sometimes just Czechia.

And somehow, nobody seems fully happy with either option.

For a small country in the middle of Europe, we spend a surprising amount of time debating our own English name. But the discussion is actually quite interesting, because it is not only about language. It is about history, identity, branding, politics, and even how words simply sound.

Why “Czech Republic” Feels Strange to Some People

The biggest criticism of Czech Republic is simple:

Why are we naming ourselves after our political system?

“Republic” is not really part of the country’s identity. It is just a form of government. Almost every modern country is technically a republic.

Nobody casually says:

• “I’m going to the French Republic this summer.”
• “I love food from the Italian Republic.”
• “The Federal Republic of Germany has great beer.”

People simply say France, Italy, Germany.

So why should the Czech Republic be different?

For many people, using the full political name feels overly formal, bureaucratic, and slightly awkward in everyday conversation. It sounds more like a passport form than a country name.

And internationally, it can also be impractical:

• sports commentators want shorter names,
• tourism campaigns need something catchy,
• maps and merchandise work better with one-word names,
• and musicians probably do not want to scream “HELLO CZECH REPUBLIC!” during concerts.

This is exactly why many countries have both:

• an official political name,
• and a shorter geographical name.

For example:

• French Republic → France
• Slovak Republic → Slovakia
• Republic of Poland → Poland

So from this perspective, Czechia actually makes logical sense.

But Then Came “Czechia”…

The problem?

A lot of Czechs simply do not like how it sounds.

Especially when foreigners pronounce it as:

“Chechia”
“Check-ee-ah”
or even “Chechnya.”

And honestly, this is where emotions enter the debate.

Because language is not only logical — it is emotional.

Many people grew up hearing “Czech Republic” for decades after the split of Czechoslovakia in 1993. Suddenly replacing it with a newer-sounding word felt artificial, forced, or unnecessary.

Some common arguments against Czechia are:

• “It sounds weird.”
• “Nobody uses it naturally.”
• “Foreigners confuse it with Chechnya.”
• “It feels like a made-up marketing term.”
• “It doesn’t sound elegant in English.”

There is also another funny issue:

What do you call a citizen?

• Czech Republic → Czech
• Czechia → still Czech

Not “Czechian.”

And that confuses people because English country names often create nationality words:

• Austria → Austrian
• Slovakia → Slovak
• Czechia → …Czech?

So grammatically, Czechia behaves differently than many other country names, which makes it feel unfamiliar.

The Real Reason the Debate Exists

The truth is that both sides are right in different ways.

“Czech Republic” supporters are right because:

• it sounds more established,
• people instantly recognize it,
• and it avoids pronunciation confusion.

“Czechia” supporters are right because:

• it is shorter,
• more natural for sports and tourism,
• and follows international naming logic used by most countries.

In reality, the conflict mostly exists because the transition happened slowly and without strong public enthusiasm.

Countries usually adopt shorter names naturally over centuries.
But in this case, it felt partly like a branding decision.

And branding only works if people emotionally accept it.

Interestingly, Other Countries Had Similar Problems

This is not unique.

For years:

• people debated whether it should be Holland or the Netherlands,
• Burma or Myanmar,
• Macedonia or North Macedonia,
• Persia or Iran.

Country names are surprisingly political, emotional, and personal.

And sometimes the “correct” name depends entirely on context.

For example:

• official diplomacy may prefer the Czech Republic,
• while hockey jerseys and tourism campaigns may prefer Czechia.

So… Which One Should You Use?

Honestly?

Both are acceptable.

• Use Czech Republic if you want something formal, traditional, or immediately recognizable.
• Use Czechia if you prefer the shorter geographical form.

Even many Czechs switch between both depending on the situation.

And perhaps that is the most Czech outcome possible:
slightly skeptical, mildly ironic, and never fully agreeing on anything.

Final Thought

Maybe the funniest part of the entire debate is this:

The country famous for beer, castles, hockey, and beautiful nature somehow became internationally known for arguing about whether its own name sounds awkward.

Very Czech, honestly.

Unlike many RPGs set in fictional worlds, Kingdom Come Deliverance recreates 15th-century Bohemia with remarkable historical accuracy. Castles, towns, and landscapes in the game are inspired by real places that you can still visit today.

For gamers, history lovers, and travelers alike, this opens up a unique opportunity: you can actually explore the real locations behind Kingdom Come Deliverance.

Trosky Castle – the iconic landmark

One of the most recognizable places in Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is Trosky Castle.

This dramatic ruin stands on two volcanic rock towers in the region known as Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj). The castle’s unique silhouette dominates the surrounding landscape of forests, sandstone rock formations, and medieval villages.

Standing beneath Trosky feels like stepping straight into the game world. It’s easy to see why the developers chose this location as inspiration for the game’s environment.

Kutná Hora – the real Kuttenberg

Another important location connected to the game is Kutná Hora, historically known as Kuttenberg.

During the Middle Ages, this city was one of the richest places in Europe thanks to its silver mines. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Gothic architecture and fascinating history.

Visitors can explore landmarks such as:

• St. Barbara’s Cathedral
• the Italian Court (former royal mint)
• Sedlec Ossuary, the famous “Bone Church”

Walking through the historic streets of Kutná Hora often feels like exploring a real-life version of the Kingdom Come Deliverance map.

A perfect day trip from Prague

Many of the locations that inspired Kingdom Come Deliverance are located within easy reach of Prague.

That makes them ideal for a Kingdom Come Deliverance day trip from Prague, where you can combine medieval history, beautiful landscapes, and famous landmarks from the game.

Exploring these places offers something unique: the chance to experience the world of the game beyond the screen.

Experience the real Kingdom Come world

If you want to explore the real locations behind the game, our guided experience

Kingdom Come: Deliverance II – The Real-World Tour

takes you to some of the landscapes and historical sites that inspired the developers. From medieval castles to the dramatic scenery of Bohemian Paradise, it’s a chance to step into the world of Kingdom Come Deliverance in real life.

Learn more about the tour HERE

• Morning: Take a train from Prague’s main station to Kutná Hora (approx. 1 hour).
  • Examples of morning direct trains from Prague: 8:06, 10:06, 12:06.
• Stop 1: Visit the Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) (opens at 9:00 a.m.)
• Stop 2: Head to the Gothic Cathedral of St. Barbara.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal in Kutná Hora’s old town.
• Afternoon: Explore the Italian Court and walk through the medieval streets.
• Evening: Return by train or bus to Prague.
  • Evening direct train departures: 15:04, 17:04, and 19:04
• Adventure Tribe Advice: It’s always cheaper to book your ticket thru PID app(official Prague app for public transportation in Prague and surroundings)

Getting to Kutná Hora from Prague

Kutná Hora is an easy day trip from Prague, and the best way to get there is by train. Here’s a quick guide on how to make your journey smooth and straightforward.

Train Option:

• From Prague: Trains to Kutná Hora leave frequently from Prague’s main station, Hlavní Nádraží. The journey takes about an hour, with a short transfer at the Kutná Hora main train station (Kutná Hora hlavní nádraží) to a local train that brings you closer to the town center.
• Tickets: You can buy tickets at the station or online. Prices range from around 100 to 150 CZK (about €4-6) for a round trip, depending on the train and class.
  • Examples of direct morning trains to Kutna Hora: 8:06, 10:06, 12:06

Bus Option:

• Buses from Prague’s Florenc Bus Station also travel to Kutná Hora. They take a bit longer than the train, around 90 minutes, but are comfortable and affordable.

Detailed Itinerary for a Perfect Day in Kutná Hora

1. Morning: The Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church)

About: The Sedlec Ossuary, often called the “Bone Church,” is one of Europe’s most unusual and haunting sites. This small chapel contains the bones of over 40,000 people, artfully arranged to create a chandelier, coats of arms, and other decorations. The unique atmosphere is both macabre and fascinating, a true must-see.

• Location: Sedlec Ossuary, Zámecká, Sedlec, Kutná Hora (easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride from Kutná Hora main station).
• Opening Hours:
  • April – September: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • October – March: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Entrance Fee: Around 90 CZK (about €3.70) for adults, with discounts available for students and children.
• Website: https://www.sedlec.info/en/ossuary/

2. Mid-Morning: St. Barbara’s Cathedral

After visiting the Bone Church, take the local bus nr. 801 or 803 from bust stop Sedlec, Kostnice to Kutná Hora, Kremnická.

you can also walk or take a quick taxi ride to the center of Kutná Hora and visit St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture dedicated to the patron saint of miners. With breathtaking stained glass, intricate vaulted ceilings, and incredible views over the vineyards and valley below, St. Barbara’s is one of the highlights of the town.

• Location: St. Barbara’s Cathedral, Barborská Street, Kutná Hora
• Opening Hours:
  • April – October: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • November – March: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Entrance Fee: Around 120 CZK (about €5) for adults, with discounts for students and children.
• Website: https://chramsvatebarbory.cz/en/tickets/

3. Lunch in the Old Town

Kutná Hora’s old town is a charming spot filled with great restaurants and cafés offering local Czech dishes. Some recommended places to try:

• Dačický Restaurant: Known for traditional Czech dishes like svíčková (marinated sirloin) and roast duck with dumplings, Dačický provides a cozy medieval atmosphere. It’s close to St. Barbara’s Cathedral and has a lovely outdoor seating area.
• Café Lavande: A quaint café near the Italian Court, ideal for coffee, pastries, or a light lunch.

4. Afternoon: The Italian Court (Vlašský dvůr)

About: After lunch, walk over to the Italian Court, once the royal mint of the Czech Kingdom. Here, you can explore the history of coin minting and learn about Kutná Hora’s significance as a medieval mining town that once provided much of Europe’s silver.

• Location: Vlašský dvůr, Havlíčkovo náměstí, Kutná Hora
• Opening Hours:
  • April – October: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • November – March: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Entrance Fee: Around 110 CZK (about €4.50) for adults, with discounts for students and children.
• Guided Tour: A guided tour is recommended, as it provides deeper insights into the history of the building and its role in the Czech economy.
• Website: https://pskh.cz/en/

5. Explore the Medieval Streets and Shops

Kutná Hora’s old town is filled with picturesque streets, small shops, and charming alleyways. You can visit the Stone House Museum, a beautifully preserved Gothic building, or just stroll and take in the town’s atmosphere, snapping photos along the way.

Returning to Prague

To return to Prague, head back to Kutná Hora’s main station. Trains leave approximately every hour, so you’ll have some flexibility in your schedule. The last direct train usually departs around 9:01 PM, but double-check schedules to ensure you have plenty of time.

Evening direct train departures: 15:04, 17:04, and 19:04.

A day trip to Kutná Hora is a wonderful journey into the Czech Republic’s rich history and architecture. With its stunning churches, medieval ambiance, and convenient transportation, it’s an unforgettable escape from the bustle of Prague.

1. Pubtran (IDOS)   

Why You Need It:

• Public Transport: Pubtran, also known as IDOS, is a comprehensive app for navigating the Czech Republic’s public transport system, including trains, trams, buses, and the metro.
• Real-Time Updates: Get real-time updates on delays and schedules.
• Ticket Purchasing: The app allows you to purchase tickets directly, saving you time and hassle.

2. Mapy.cz     

Why You Need It:

• Offline Maps: Mapy.cz offers detailed offline maps of the Czech Republic, perfect for areas with limited connectivity.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the app highlights various trails and paths.
• Local Attractions: Discover lesser-known attractions and local gems with comprehensive listings.
• this OSM based maps app is very usefull all across the world

3. Uber 

Why You Need It:

• Ride Hailing: Although Liftago is popular, Uber is also available in major cities like Prague.
• Global Familiarity: If you’re already familiar with Uber, you’ll find it easy to use in the Czech Republic.
• Reliable Transportation: Ensure you have reliable transport options at your fingertips.

4. PID Lítačka 

Why You Need It:

• Comprehensive Public Transport: PID Lítačka is the go-to app for navigating Prague’s extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, metro lines, and suburban trains.
• Real-Time Information: Stay updated with real-time departure times, delays, and arrivals for all public transport modes.
• Journey Planner: Input your starting point and destination to receive optimized route options, including travel times and transfers.
• Ticket Purchasing: Buy and store tickets directly in the app, making travel easier and eliminating the need for physical tickets.
• Fare Calculation: Calculate fares based on your journey, ensuring you always have the right ticket for your travel.
• Service Alerts: Receive notifications about service disruptions, planned maintenance, and other important updates.
• Multilingual Support: The app supports multiple languages, including English, making it accessible for international travelers.

5. CZK Exchange Rates

Why You Need It:

• Currency Conversion: Stay on top of exchange rates between your home currency and the Czech Koruna (CZK).
• Offline Access: The app provides offline access to exchange rates, crucial for budgeting on the go.

Equipping yourself with these apps will enhance your travel experience in the Czech Republic, making it easier to navigate, communicate, and enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer. Download these apps before you go, and you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure. Happy travels!

• • Public Transportation: Check the current train and bus schedules as they may vary. Use the Czech Railways (České dráhy) website or local apps like IDOS for the most accurate timings.Hiking Gear: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a light jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.Cash: Have some Czech koruna and euros on hand for small purchases and entry fees.Photography: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

Getting There

• 6:28 AM: Depart from Prague Main Railway Station (Praha hlavní nádraží). Take the train towards Děčín, which is a gateway to Bohemian Switzerland.
• 8:16 AM: Arrive at Děčín and transfer to a local bus(Nr. 434) heading to Hřensko, a small town nestled in the heart of Bohemian Switzerland.
• 8:39 AM: Arrive in Hřensko – K Souteskam.

• 9:00 AM: Start your hike from Hřensko to Pravčická Gate. The hike is approximately 6 kilometers and takes about 1 hour.
• 10:00 AM: Arrive at Pravčická Gate, the largest natural sandstone arch in Europe. Spend time exploring and taking in the breathtaking views. Don’t forget to visit the Falcon’s Nest, a historical building turned into a restaurant and museum. Entrance fee is 95CZK.

• 12:00 PM: Head back to Hrensko and enjoy lunch at the Stara Plynarna restaurant. Savor traditional Czech dishes while enjoying unique atmosphere.

• After the forest fires, the most beautiful boat ride was closed. For now, only a short boat ride is open. However, the effort required is enormous because you have to climb a lot of steps. We don’t recommend the boat ride until the original one reopens.

• 1:30 PM: After the lunch, take a ferry across the Elbe river to Schona. After 20 minutes ride, you get off in Kurort Rathen, just under the Bastei Bridge .
• 2:30 PM: Hike at the Bastei Bridge, located in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Spend time walking across the bridge and exploring the ancient rock formations and ruins of the old Neurathen Castle.

• 4:00 PM: Have dinner or snack at the Panoramahotel Bastei restaurant. Enjoy delicious German cuisine with spectacular views of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.

• 5:00 PM: Depart from the Kurort Rathen and head back to Bad Schandau.
• 5:35 PM: Take the evening train from Bad Schandau back to Prague.
• 7:30 PM: Arrive in Prague.

Recommended Tour: Bohemian Paradise

• Prachov Rocks: A stunning labyrinth of sandstone towers and cliffs, perfect for hiking and rock climbing.
• Hrubá Skála Castle: A fairy-tale castle perched on a cliff, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area.
• Trosky Castle: The ruins of a medieval castle atop two volcanic peaks, providing a dramatic and scenic backdrop.
• Find your Bohemian Paradise adventure here

Paraíso Checo (Bohemian Paradise) – un nombre con historia y valor geológico

Origen del nombre “Bohemia”
El término Bohemia viene de la palabra latina Boiohaemum, que significa “tierra de los Boii”, una tribu celta que habitó la región hacia el siglo IV a.C. (Wikipedie). Con el tiempo, este nombre fue adoptado por el Sacro Imperio Romano Germánico y se utilizó como una pars pro toto: “Bohemia” designaba un territorio mayor — el Reino de Bohemia — y se empleó para referirse también al conjunto de las tierras checas (Reddit).

El adjetivo “bohemio” en idiomas como el francés no se refiere a los checos, sino que deriva de una asociación errónea de los romaníes con Bohemia, y pasó a describir un estilo de vida artístico, libre y poco convencional (Wikipedia).

¿Por qué “Paraíso Checo”?
El nombre Bohemian Paradise (en checo, Český ráj) fue adoptado en el siglo XX para destacar la belleza natural de esta región. Fue declarada Área Natural Protegida en 1955, siendo la primera en el país, y es además un geoparque global de la UNESCO, lo que certifica su importancia geológica y cultural (Wikipedie).

Prachovské skály – arte de la naturaleza y el espíritu del alpinismo tradicional

Formación geológica
Estas formaciones surgieron en el período Cretácico (hace entre 93–85 millones de años), mediante la sedimentación en mares poco profundos. La erosión (agua, viento, hielo), con la ayuda de movimientos tectónicos, dio lugar a torres, cañones, pasadizos y formas únicas (Wikipedie, Central Bohemia).

Historia y legado de los Schlick
En el siglo XVI, la zona pertenecía a los Schlick (o Šlik), familia noble que también acuñó los famosos tolares en Jáchymov — nombre que dio origen al dólar (Wikipedie). Utilizaban estas rocas como coto de caza natural y símbolo de su poder territorial.

Escalada tradicional en arenisca
La zona es famosa por su tradición de escalada en roca arenisca, practicada desde principios del siglo XX. El ascenso al “Monje” ocurrió en 1907 y marcó el inicio de una filosofía de escalada muy particular:

• Se escala de abajo hacia arriba (no top rope), con mínima fijación (solo lazos textiles).
• La ascensión es ligera, con máximo cinco personas por grupo.
• Restricciones estrictas: no usar magnesio, solo escalar con roca seca, y en temporada (1 de abril–31 de octubre).
  (Wikipedie, Central Bohemia)

Castillo de Hrubá Skála – de fortaleza medieval a hotel romántico

• Fundación alrededor de 1350 por la familia Waldstein.
• Propiedad sucesiva de Jenštejns, Zajíce de Hasenburk, Smiřický (quienes lo transformaron en un estilo renacentista).
• En 1824, fue adquirido por los Aehrenthal, enriquecidos por su producción agrícola para ejércitos napoleónicos.
• Entre 1870–1875, los Aehrenthal decoraron el interior con techos artesonados, paneles de madera y salones representativos.
• Tras la nacionalización en 1945, fue tomado por el Estado; desde los años 90 funciona como hotel-castillo, uno de los pocos en la región, con zonas públicas accesibles (patio, miradores como el de María) (Wikipedie, Encyclopedia Britannica).

Cervecería Lomnice nad Popelkou – siglos de sabor renacidos

Historia

• La actividad cervecera en Lomnice data de 1462, con producción referenciada en el casco antiguo.
• En 1660, la elaboración se traslada a instalaciones junto al castillo, donde se consolida la tradición.
• En 1958, la producción se centraliza durante la era comunista y la antigua cervecería cesa su actividad.
• En 2018–2019, emprendedores locales (Mirek, Jan, junto con Vikto­r, Jan Pazder­ský y otros) reabren la cervecería en la ciudad, resucitando la marca histórica y ofreciendo cervezas como Český ležák, varios estilos IPA, stouts y especiales, con tienda, degustaciones y tours (Wikipedie) (información local complementaria).

Diferencias entre Ležák tradicional e IPA (con detalle sobre el lúpulo)