Beroun

Beroun is a town located in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It sits at the confluence of the Berounka and Litavka rivers, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Prague. The town's history stretches back to the 10th century, with evidence of early settlements in the area. Beroun was granted town rights in the 13th century and developed into an important market and administrative center.

The town's historical core features a preserved town square with a Baroque town hall and a Marian column. The Church of St. James the Greater is a prominent landmark, exhibiting Gothic and Baroque architectural elements. A notable feature of Beroun is the Beroun Castle, a former royal castle that now houses the Museum of Czech Karst. The museum focuses on the unique geological and natural heritage of the surrounding Karst region.

Beroun is situated within the Bohemian Karst, a protected landscape area renowned for its extensive cave systems, dramatic limestone formations, and rich biodiversity. The town serves as a gateway to exploring this natural wonder, with numerous hiking and cycling trails in the vicinity. Industries in Beroun have historically included mining, particularly iron ore, and later, manufacturing. Today, it is a mix of industry, services, and tourism.