Plze

Plzeň, also known as Pilsen in English, is a city in the western Czech Republic on the Mže River. It serves as the capital of the Plzeň Region and is one of the country’s major urban centers outside Prague, with about 170,000 to 180,000 residents.

The city’s history reaches back to the medieval period, and it received town privileges in the Middle Ages, developing as an important administrative and industrial center in western Bohemia. Its historic core features a central square surrounded by burgher houses and notable religious and civic buildings.

Plzeň is internationally renowned as the birthplace of the pale lager style and home to the Pilsner Urquell brewery. Founded in 1842, the brewery introduced a light, golden beer that established the Pilsner style and influenced beer brewing worldwide. Brewery tours and related museums are popular with visitors and contribute to the city’s tourism economy.

In addition to brewing, Plzeň is an educational and cultural hub. It hosts the University of West Bohemia and several other higher education and research institutions. The city’s cultural life centers on its historic streets, the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew near Republic Square, theatres, museums, and regularly organized events.

Transportation is well developed, with an extensive tram network and rail connections to Prague and other Czech cities. The city also functions as a regional economic center, combining manufacturing, services, and brewing with a focus on preserving its historic heritage for residents and visitors alike.