Moravia, the eastern region of the Czech Republic

Moravia, named after the Morava River that flows through it, is a region of the Czech Republic that is still little known to tourists: now is the time to discover it.

You can visit modern metropolises and lively cities of art and universities such as Brno, Olomouc and Kroměříž, follow unusual itineraries of industrial archaeology or admire the region’s beautiful landscapes: the Wallachian mountains, fertile Haná plains, hills full of vineyards, karst landscapes.

Rich in traditions, legends and folklore, Moravia has a history stretching back thousands of years. In the 7th century it was the heart of the first Slavic kingdom, but from 1197 it tied its fate to that of neighbouring Bohemia. When Ferdinand I of Habsburg was elected King of Bohemia in 1526, Moravia also became a Habsburg possession and remained so until the end of World War I. The imperial past is evident in the elegant palaces you can admire in the cities.

If you visit Moravia in December, take the opportunity to do some Christmas shopping at the traditional markets in Olomouc. Food and wine lovers should not miss the opportunity to rent a car and drive along the Wine Route to discover Czech wines, including the highly prized Ice Wine.

Whichever type of tourism suits you best, cultural, food and wine or industrial, Moravia will be an exciting discovery.