Happy TravellerWelcome to Pardubice, a charming city located in the heart of the Czech Republic. With a population of around 89,000, Pardubice is the capital city of the Pardubice Region and is situated on the banks of the Elbe River. The city is known for its well-preserved historic center, which is protected as an urban monument reservation. But Pardubice is more than just a pretty face – it’s also a hub of industry, with a thriving chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering sector. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Pardubice such a special destination, from its rich history and culture to its exciting sporting events and delicious local cuisine.
One of the first things you’ll notice about Pardubice is its unique administrative division. The city is divided into eight boroughs, which are further divided into 27 administrative parts. Each of these parts has its own distinct character and charm, from the historic center of Pardubice-Staré Město to the tranquil surroundings of Lány na Důlku. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Pardubice.
Speaking of history, Pardubice has plenty of it. The city was first mentioned in written records in 1295, when Pope Boniface VIII took over the protection of the local Church of Saint Bartholomew. In the centuries that followed, Pardubice was ruled by a number of noble families, including the Lords of Pardubice and the Pernštejns. Today, you can still see the legacy of these families in the city’s many historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Green Gate and Pardubice Castle.
But Pardubice isn’t just a city of the past – it’s also a city of the present and future. The city is known for its thriving industry, with a particular focus on chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Companies like Orlen Unipetrol and Synthesia have a strong presence in the city, and the Foxconn plant is one of the largest employers in the area. Pardubice is also home to the University of Pardubice, which is focused on fields historically associated with the city, such as the chemical industry and transportation.
Of course, Pardubice isn’t all work and no play. The city is known for its exciting sporting events, including the Great Pardubice Steeplechase in horse racing, the Golden Helmet of Pardubice in motorcycle racing, and the Czech Open international chess and games festival. These events draw visitors from all over the world and are a testament to Pardubice’s vibrant and dynamic culture.
But perhaps one of the best things about Pardubice is its delicious local cuisine. The city is known for its production of gingerbread, which has been a local specialty for centuries. The gingerbread guild was established in the 16th century, and today you can still find plenty of shops and bakeries selling this sweet treat. Other local specialties include Pardubice ham, which is smoked over beech wood, and Perník, a type of spiced cake that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Whether you’re interested in history, industry, sports, or food, Pardubice has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to this charming city and discover all that it has to offer? We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
