Czech Republic: Plzen

The beautiful town of Plzen in the western Bohemia is more famous for its namesake Pilsner beer (next post), but the town is jam-packed with fantastic architectural attractions and sites. Plzen dates back to the 13th century and was a major town on the trade routes into Germany and out east. The grand Namesty Republiky square in the heart of town features the massive St Bartholomew Cathedral which has the highest spire in the country – 102 meters or 335 feet. The square also has several picturesque fountains and rows of colorful buildings and a decorated townhall. The town is also famous for its Great Synagogue, the second largest synagogue in Europe.