What Went Down in June?

As we reflect on the June prophecies, we see that this sixth month might have roots in Slavic history, yet we remain uncertain about what the ancient Slavs actually named it. Was it perhaps inspired by the vibrant colors of strawberries and cherries? Or could it be related to worms? But if that’s the case, what would the worms have been named for? Let’s keep June as it is and focus on some fascinating June days and anniversaries.

1 June – International Children’s Day

International Children’s Day celebrates the joy of childhood, play, and children’s rights. This tradition has been part of our country for many years. Schools, communities, and various organizations put together vibrant programs for kids and their families. Children’s Day is not just a time for fun but also a reminder that every child deserves to feel safe, receive an education, and experience love.

1 June 1850 – Opening of the Negrelli Viaduct in Prague

The Negrelli Viaduct is the oldest railway bridge still standing over the Vltava River and is also the second oldest bridge in Prague over this river. It was officially opened on 1 June 1850. The viaduct linked the Masaryk Railway Station in Prague through Karlín and the island of Štvanice to Drums, a part of Holešovice. This engineering marvel of its time remains active in today’s railway network.

June 1, 1950 – Opening of the Children’s House in Prague

A new specialized department store solely for children opened at the corner of Na Příkopě and Havířské in Prague. It offered clothing, toys, and school supplies, quickly becoming a beloved spot for many generations of parents and children.

June 1, 1955 – The First Self-Service Store in Czechoslovakia

On Hussite Street in Prague at Žižkov, the first self-service store in Czechoslovakia opened its doors. This was the first time customers could select their items without needing help from staff, marking the start of a new shopping experience that has become standard today.

June 2, 1898 – The First Design of the Prague Metro

Merchant Ladislav Rott proposed the first idea for the Prague Metro to the city council. At that time, only London and Budapest had metro systems in Europe.

June 4, 1995 – The First Year of the Prague International Marathon

The concept of hosting an international marathon in Prague was inspired by the renowned athlete Emil Zátopek, who won three gold medals at the 1952 Summer Olympics. The inaugural event saw 985 runners participate in 1995, along with over 15,000 people, counting those who joined the two shorter races of 9.2 km and 4.8 km. Today, the Prague Marathon is considered one of the world’s premier events and is a key sporting highlight in Prague and the Czech Republic.

4 June 2020 – Marian Column Returned to Old Town Square

After more than 100 years, a replica of the Baroque Marian Column, which originally stood there since the mid-17th century, has made its way back to Prague’s Old Town Square. The restoration sparked significant debate; while some see it as a symbol of faith and heritage, others view it as a contentious reminder of past monarchy.

8 June 1600 – The First Public Autopsy in Bohemia

Dr. Ján Jesenský, known as Jessenius, performed the first public autopsy of a human body in Bohemia at Rečka’s dormitory at Charles University in Prague’s Old Town. This remarkable event drew a great deal of public attention and marked a key milestone in the history of medicine in the Czech Republic.

10 June 1348 – Laying of the Foundation Stone of Karlštejn Castle

The foundation stone of Karlštejn Castle was laid by Archbishop Arnošt of Pardubice on 10 June 1348. The construction took just nine years, and on 27 March 1357, the castle was inaugurated in the presence of Emperor and King Charles IV.

June 10, 1942 – The Extermination of Lidice

The destruction of the village of Lidice was a brutal act of retaliation for the assassination of Acting Reich Protector Reinhard Heydrich on 27 May 1942 during World War II, marking a peak in Czech resistance. Men were executed, women and children were taken away, and the village was systematically burned and destroyed. This horrific event shocked the entire world. Today, Lidice symbolizes not only the cruelty of war but also the strength of human memory and resistance. The Lidice Memorial now serves as a quiet place for remembrance.

11 June 1881 – The First Opening of the National Theatre in Prague

In June 1881, the National Theatre in Prague had its inaugural performance featuring Smetana’s Libuše. Sadly, less than two months later, the theatre was engulfed in flames. Its second performance took place later on November 18, 1883, again featuring Smetana’s Libuše.

15 June 1754 – Prokop Diviš Assembled the First Lightning Conductor near Znojmo

In the village of Přímětice close to Znojmo, local parish priest Prokop Diviš created a lightning rod, which he named machina meteorologica, in his parish garden. To commemorate this inventor, a small monument and a replica of the famous lightning rod can be found in the square in front of the Church of St. Margaret.

16 June 1912 – The Macha Monument was Created on Petrin Hill

A monument honoring the poet Karel Hynek Mácha was unveiled on Petrin Hill in Prague. The creator of this monument, which reflects the style of literary romanticism, is Josef Václav Myslbek.

19 June 1969 – Proclamation of the Jeseníky Protected Landscape Area

In 1969, one of our most beautiful and well-preserved natural areas was designated as a protected landscape area. Today, the Jeseníky Mountains draw in tourists and nature enthusiasts with their wild beauty, stunning waterfalls, peat bogs, and magnificent mountain views.

June 21 – Summer Solstice

The Summer Solstice occurs on 21 June, typically the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere when the sun rises earliest and sets latest. With just about four hours of nighttime, celebrations related to the solstice in our country often align with St John’s Day and Midsummer Night, the enchanting night before the Feast of All Saints (24 June).

21 June 1925 – The First Bus Line in Prague

The regular operation of modern bus services in Prague began with the Electricity Company of the Royal Capital as far back as 1920, but the first official city line became operational in 1925. This line connected Vršovice to Zahallice, passing through the Bridge and Old Town Square. This marked the beginning of a new era in public bus transport, which has since evolved into what we see today.

23 June 1928 – Midsummer Bonfires in Honour of President Masaryk

President Masaryk cherished the Beskydy Mountains. In June 1928, he attended the lighting of the Midsummer Fires in the Pustevny Mountains. The fires glimmered on all the nearby hills, slopes, and ridges, with their number estimated at 600.

June 24, 1942 – Extermination of the Village of Ležáky

Shortly after the tragedy of Lidice, the village of Ležáky faced a similar fate. The Nazis destroyed it due to the Silver A radio. Today, the site stands as a poignant memorial for the victims.

27 June 1555 – Laying of the Foundation Stone of the Hvězda Summer Palace

In June 1555, Ferdinand of Tyrol, who was the son of King Ferdinand I of Habsburg, laid down the foundation stone for the Hvězda Summer Palace located in the heart of the White Mountain Preserve. This building, shaped like a six-pointed star, is one of the most remarkable Renaissance projects of its era and remains a popular excursion destination.

27 June 1972 – Proclamation of the Labské Pískovce Protected Landscape Area

This area, known for its series of gorges and canyons, striking viewpoints like the Belvedere, forests, the sandstone canyon of the Elbe, Czech Switzerland National Park, and the Tisza Walls, was designated as a protected landscape area in June 1972. It has since become a favorite spot for hikers and climbers.

28 June 1965 – Opening of the Podolí Swimming Stadium in Prague

The iconic Podolí Swimming Stadium opened to the public in June 1965. Built in a former quarry, it has become one of the premier sports venues in the capital. Operations commenced on 24 June 1965 with the International Swimming Spartakiad. Still in operation today, serving both professional athletes and recreational swimmers, it was officially recognized as a heritage site in December 2020.