October 28th commemorated the founding of Czechoslovakia. Yes, that country by name is now two countries, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but ties to this date in history live large in many citizens. It was 1918, the end of WWI and the breakup of the Austro Hungarian Empire. And little countries that were once part of the great conglomerate were out, fresh on their own.
Czechoslovakia was led by the still revered Thomas Garrigue Masaryk. And, Czechoslovakia emerged as an impressive democratic and economic blossom.
Strangely enough, this holiday isn't celebrated in the fashion you might expect. There are no fireworks or parades. It actually appears more like a Sunday, no school, no traffic, not much of anything happening. So, in a way it's more of a commemoration noting the day than a celebration.
Older generations (like Grandma) will certainly reflect on this day proudly. A baby fresh country, from land of old, was finally given a chance to be something called independent. And, so, it began and eventually became prosperous and autonomous.
Coinciding with the holiday is the opening of a unique historical museum and monument - the National Memorial on Vitkov Hill. This long neglected Prague sight was originally built to honor fallen Czech legionnaires of WWI. But somehow, and I'm always really curious about this, became a mausoleum for Communist leaders. Of course, with the fall of communism in Czechoslovakia in 1989, the remains of the leaders were removed.
This odd bulky building was then left untouched for years and people like myself would saunter around it, take in the view of Prague and admire the great horse statue. Oh, I didn't mention the statue did I? Well, outside the building as if leading it across Prague is a wonderful statue of Jan Zizka on his horse. The one eyed Zizka was a follower of Jan Hus who was a religious reformer born in 1370. By the early 15th century the Catholic crusades made their way to Bohemia and it was Zizka who led a defense. (These became known as the Hussite Wars.)
I'm not sure anyone really knows how all these things were connected. Let's see... Protestant reformer - noted one eyed soldier - monument to Czech soldiers of WWI - mausoleum for former Communist leaders - and now finally a monument to key moments in Czech history. Well done.
I for one can't wait to check it out. I've been dying for years to see inside these thick concrete walls. It was never a warm place, but I'm very curious.
The one drawback (for some) might be its location. It's located in the working class neighborhood of Zizkov. It's not far from the city center of Prague, but it sits atop a hill and there's not an easy tram or metro line to it. So, it includes a bit of walking. But, I have the feeling it will be well worth it.
FYI: till 30 November entrance is free!
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