Bohemia facts for kids
Bohemia is a large historical region in the Czech Republic. It is located in the western and central parts of the country. To the north, Bohemia shares a border with Poland. Germany is to the west, and Austria is to the south. The Czech region of Moravia lies to the east. The capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague, is located in Bohemia.
Bohemia is famous for many things. It is well known for its beautiful glass products and other handmade crafts. The region also produces excellent beer and has a rich, tasty cuisine.
Contents
What is Bohemia?
Bohemia is one of the three main historical lands that make up the modern Czech Republic. The other two are Moravia and Czech Silesia. Bohemia has been an important area for centuries. It has a long and interesting history.
Bohemia's Location and Landscape
Bohemia is mostly surrounded by mountains. These mountains form a natural border. The Bohemian Forest is in the southwest. The Ore Mountains are in the northwest. The Giant Mountains are in the northeast. These mountains have helped protect Bohemia throughout history.
The main river flowing through Bohemia is the Vltava River. It flows through Prague, the capital. The Vltava eventually joins the Elbe River. These rivers are important for trade and transportation.
A Look at Bohemia's History
Bohemia has a very long and rich history. It was once a powerful independent state.
Early History and Kingdoms
In the Middle Ages, Bohemia was first a duchy. A duchy is a territory ruled by a duke. Later, it became a strong kingdom. The Kingdom of Bohemia was part of the Holy Roman Empire. Its kings were very influential. They even helped choose the Holy Roman Emperor.
One famous period was the Hussite Wars in the 15th century. These wars were fought by followers of a religious reformer named Jan Hus. They stood up for their beliefs.
Under Habsburg Rule
In 1526, Bohemia came under the control of the House of Habsburg. The Habsburgs were a powerful European royal family. They ruled Bohemia for many centuries. Bohemia became part of their large empire. This empire later became known as Austria-Hungary.
During this time, Bohemian culture and language were preserved. However, the region was not independent.
Becoming Part of Czechoslovakia
After World War I, the Austria-Hungary empire was defeated. Many new countries were formed. In 1918, Bohemia joined with Moravia, Czech Silesia, and Slovakia. Together, they formed a new country called Czechoslovakia. This was a big step for the Czech people. They finally had their own independent state.
Bohemia in the Modern Czech Republic
Czechoslovakia existed until 1993. Then, it peacefully split into two separate countries. These were the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Today, Bohemia is a major region within the Czech Republic. It continues to be an important cultural and economic center.
Culture and Traditions
Bohemia has a vibrant culture. It is known for its arts, music, and crafts.
Famous Bohemian Crafts
Bohemian glass is world-famous. Glassmakers in Bohemia have been creating beautiful and delicate items for centuries. They make everything from fancy drinking glasses to sparkling chandeliers. This craft is a big part of Bohemian heritage.
Other handicrafts include pottery and lace-making. These traditions are passed down through generations.
Food and Drink
Bohemian cuisine is hearty and delicious. Popular dishes often include roasted meats, dumplings, and rich sauces. Soups are also very common.
Beer is a huge part of Bohemian culture. The region has a long history of brewing. Many famous types of beer come from Bohemia. People often enjoy beer with their meals.
Images for kids
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An 1892 map showing Bohemia proper outlined in pink, Moravia in yellow, and Austrian Silesia in orange
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The coat of arms of the Kingdom of Bohemia
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The radical Hussites became known as Taborites, after the town of Tábor that became their center
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Bohemia as the heart of Europa regina; Sebastian Münster, Basel, 1570
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Bohemia (westernmost area) in Czechoslovakia 1918–1938
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Linguistic map of interwar Czechoslovakia (c. 1930)
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Bohemian city Karlovy Vary
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A panorama of Kłodzko, the capital city of Kłodzko Land, which is referred to as "Little Prague"
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Lands of the Bohemian Crown (until 1635), map by Josef Pekař, 1921
See also
In Spanish: Bohemia para niños
