The famous blown glass has long been made on the territory of the modern Czech Republic, and it got its name «Bohemia Cristal» from the name of the region of Bohemia. This is how the Czech lands were called in ancient times. At the beginning of the 13th century, colored glass was produced here. It was used for colorful stained-glass windows in churches. Later, the thin transparent glass appeared. It was highly appreciated in other European countries. And after a hundred years, products made of Bohemian glass were considered an unacceptable luxury.
Today Bohemian glass with a thousand-year history still belongs to luxury items and is famous for its beauty and quality all over the world. Now it can be seen in royal palaces and museums, in the homes of high-ranked people and collectors. Products made from this glass combine centuries-old traditions and modern trends. They will always be beyond fashion, as well as other eternal values.
The first grinding shop in the Czech Republic appeared in the 17th century, and the oldest glass factory is considered to be the Bohemia Crystal Glass Factory in Harrachov. Founded in 1712 by Sir Harrachov, it still follows the medieval tradition of Bohemian glassmaking. Another tradition has also been preserved – to make valuable items with painstaking manual labor. The real pride of the old Bohemia Crystal Glass Factory is the original grinding machine of the last century, which can still be seen in action today. Even though the plant is still working, it is open to tourists. Everyone can see how unique objects of glass craftsmanship are born from liquid glass mass. By the way, it is more pleasant to watch the work of talented glassblowers in a cozy restaurant (at a local small brewery), which is located behind a transparent glass fence. And don't forget to order dumplings with fried pork or duck, which are popular in the Czech Republic, along with a foamy drink.