Explore Czechia’s Ancient Wonders: A Journey Through Time

Embark on an Exciting Journey to Prehistoric Times: Discover Mammoths, Neanderthals, and the World’s Oldest Ceramic Art!

Your adventure into the past begins in South Moravia, specifically at the remarkable archaeological park located in Pavlov. This state-of-the-art museum is nestled within the beautiful Pálava landscape, right at one of the most significant Palaeolithic sites in all of Europe. The extraordinary underground exhibition showcases artifacts from the era of mammoth hunters—including tools, animal remains, and the earliest known evidence of both ceramics and textiles.

Venus of Věstonice

Close to Pavlov lies the renowned figurine of a woman, known as the Venus of Věstonice, which was crafted from fired clay over 29,000 years ago. This remarkable piece stands as one of the oldest known representations of the human form worldwide. It embodies themes of fertility and femininity, offering a glimpse into the advanced nature of Stone Age culture. Truly, it is the oldest ceramic artwork in existence! While this captivating figurine is held at the Moravian Museum in Brno, it is exhibited only on occasion, with a replica featured in its permanent collection.

If you are eager to delve into the world of mammoths and experience the prehistoric lives of early humans, consider visiting the Anthropos Pavilion at the Moravian Museum in Brno. This one-of-a-kind exhibition, unmatched throughout Central Europe, chronicles the ancient settlement history of what is today known as Czechia and indeed Europe. Here, you will find a reconstruction of a mammoth, dating back to 1928, a project sponsored by the famed shoemaker Tomáš Baťa.

Brno – Anthropos Pavilion

Additionally, a visit to the intriguing Šipka Museum in the charming town of Štramberk is well worth it. This museum is named after the nearby cave, where the remains of a Neanderthal child were unearthed. The atmosphere mimics that of an actual cave, providing a unique glimpse into history!

The Convergence of Roman and Barbarian Cultures: The Origins of Bohemia

Explore the ancient Celtic civilization that thrived in present-day Czechia before our Common Era through the Celtic-focused exhibition at Nasavrky, situated at the intersection of Vysočina and East Bohemia. This open-air archaeological museum, known as the Land of the Celts, is significant as it was home to the Boii tribe. This tribe lent its name, Bohemia, to the region, a term that has endured from Roman times right through to modern English. Here, you can step back in time to witness the intersection of Roman and barbarian worlds!

Don’t forget to stop by the remarkable Chotěbuz-Podobora Archaeological Park located in Silesia, in the eastern part of Czechia. This park is an outstanding reconstruction of a Slavic settlement that flourished between the 8th and 11th centuries and holds the title of one of the most pivotal and well-documented archaeological sites in the country. Currently, ongoing archaeological excavations mean that tours are guided only.

Journey Back to the Era of Great Moravia

The first historically recognized state on the territory of what is now known as Czechia was Great Moravia, characterized by its distinct culture and centers of power. Though this period remains wrapped in enigma, you can unveil some of its secrets at Mikulčice or Staré Město near Uherské Hradiště, where you can admire replicas of period attire, footwear, jewelry, tools, and a variety of discoveries from archaeological digs that have taken place over the last century.

For a deeper understanding of life in the Great Moravian era, check out the open-air museum in Modrá. Here, visitors can wander through a fortified settlement from that time period. In addition to exploring multiple dwellings, workshops, and various buildings including an episcopal palace, special craft days offer an exciting program where you can learn about the lifestyle of the people during that era.

In June 2024, the Modrá Open Air Archaeological Museum is set to unveil a stunning exhibition titled The Treasury of Great Moravia. This unique display takes the form of an underground circular pantheon illuminated solely by the natural light filtering in through a small bell tower above. It features some of the most valuable historical artifacts, including rare Great Moravia jewelry and distinctive archaeological items from burial sites across the region. These exceptional originals or their precise replicas will be safeguarded in specialized bulletproof display cases.

Engage with History Through All Your Senses

The Central Bohemian Museum, situated in Roztoky near Prague, has curated an immersive experience known as Archevita – In the Footsteps of the Ages. This multimedia archaeological exhibition allows you to feel history come alive, as you meet ancient ancestors, learn about traditional axe-making, and discover trading practices from the past. The experience is accentuated by captivating projections, holographic displays, and virtual reality scenarios, making it not just informative but also emotionally engaging.

Step into the Medieval Era at Trocnov Archaeological Open-Air Museum

Experience the medieval period firsthand at the Trocnov Archaeological Open-Air Museum, situated near České Budějovice in South Bohemia, on the traditional birthplace of the notable Czech military leader, Jan Žižka. This open-air venue authentically recreates a 14th-century rural community, complete with realistic houses, workshops, and scenes from daily life, offering visitors a rich insight into the medieval lifestyle. Interactive exhibits, captivating demonstrations of traditional crafts, and family-friendly activities make Trocnov a perfect destination for those keen on exploring Czech history and archaeology.

Become a Dinosaur Adventure Hero!
If your children are fascinated by dinosaurs, adorning their t-shirts, pencil cases, and backpacks with these prehistoric creatures, here’s a fantastic way to make you the ultimate parent! Treat them to a visit at one of the Dinoparks. They will undoubtedly have a blast as together you embark on a thrilling journey millions of years into the past, exploring the realm of mighty dinosaurs and ancient wildlife. There are dinoparks filled with life-size models of these magnificent reptiles in Prague, Plzeň, Vyškov, and Liberec, with the largest park situated near Ostrava.
Young explorers will also be captivated by the Dinosauria Museum Prague, located on the outskirts of the city, where both you and your children can come eye to eye with actual dinosaur skeletons and life-size models of prehistoric creatures! Both kids and adults will delight in the exhilarating world of dinosaurs through a cutting-edge virtual gaming experience.