A Visit to a Folk Heritage Open-Air Museum.

A Trip to a Gem of the Past – Kouřim for Easter

Leading up to Easter, we decided to take a short trip. The weather was rainy and we didn't feel like driving far, so we chose the ancient town of Kouřim – a decision that turned out to be an excellent choice.

Kouřim might not be considered one of the glittering cities in the Czech Republic. Indeed, it strongly resembles, and truly is, a small, quiet town located on the other side of the country, in the heart of a rural area. But behind its modest appearance lies a fascinating story – one that makes a visit there a surprising experience. The town has existed since prehistoric times, with settlements dating back to 3000 BCE. It's connected to local legends and at times even served as a beloved city for important kings. During certain periods, it was almost as large and important as Prague itself, or even more so. Unfortunately, its golden age was cut short by the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648), during which it was almost completely destroyed. Since then, it has not returned to its former glory, but you can still find fascinating historical landmarks there – including Jewish history.

Our visit's purpose was the Kouřim Open-Air Museum, which offers special activities for the whole family during Easter. Among other things, we participated in traditional egg painting and making "pomlázka" sticks (a braided stick made from fresh branches symbolizing fertility and youth).

In some regions of the Czech Republic, this custom is combined with cold water and perfume.

And the preparation of ointments and medicines from medicinal herbs. The museum is designed so that visitors move between different buildings – each one reconstructing a different aspect of traditional Czech life: a school, a living room, a barn, a workshop, and more. Each building tells a story, which adds real depth to the experience.

The synagogue of the Jewish community that arrived in the city in the 19th century.