Plzeň

Plzeň is a city in the Czech Republic, located in the western part of Bohemia. It is the fourth most populous city in the country, after Prague, Brno, and Ostrava.

Geography: Plzeň lies at the confluence of the Radbuza, Mže, Úhlava, and Úslava rivers, which form the Berounka River. The city is situated in a basin surrounded by hills.

History: Plzeň was founded in 1295 by King Wenceslaus II. It was an important trade and industrial center from the Middle Ages onward. The city played a role in the Hussite Wars and the Thirty Years' War. During World War II, Plzeň was liberated by the U.S. Army.

Culture: Plzeň is well-known for its brewing tradition and is the birthplace of Pilsner Urquell, a popular pale lager beer. The city is home to the Pilsner Urquell brewery, which offers tours and tastings. Other cultural attractions include the Gothic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, the Great Synagogue (one of the largest synagogues in Europe), the West Bohemian Museum, and the J. K. Tyl Theatre. Plzeň was a European Capital of Culture in 2015.

Economy: The economy of Plzeň is diverse, with significant sectors including manufacturing, engineering, brewing, and tourism. Škoda Transportation, a major manufacturer of transportation equipment, has a large presence in Plzeň.

Transportation: Plzeň is a transportation hub with good road and rail connections to other major cities in the Czech Republic and neighboring countries. It also has a public transport system consisting of trams, buses, and trolleybuses.

Education: Plzeň is a university town, hosting the University of West Bohemia. The university offers a wide range of programs in fields such as engineering, science, arts, and humanities.