Ostrava, Czech Republic

The following is an introduction to Ostrava, Czech Republic: General Information - Location: Located on the northeastern border of the Czech Republic, at the confluence of the Oder, Opava, Ostravice, and Lucina rivers. - City Status: The third largest city in the Czech Republic, the capital of the Moravian-Silesian Region, the second largest metropolitan area in the Czech Republic, and the administrative center of a municipality with more legal rights. - Area and Population: The area is 214 km², and the population was 311,419 in January 2011. History - A castle was built in 1267, and a city gradually formed. - A large coal field was discovered nearby in 1770, and development began in 1830 with the development of mines and the construction of blast furnaces. - During the communist period in Czechoslovakia, it was considered the "Steel City of the Republic." Economic Development - Traditional Industry: Historically an important mining and metallurgical center, with the largest coal production in the country, a large share of steel production in the country, and a developed coke, chemical, and heavy machinery manufacturing industry. - Industrial Transformation: Today, many heavy industry companies have closed or restructured, and the industrial production structure is developing towards the typical structure of a small, developed market economy, while actively developing new fields such as the information industry. Culture and Tourism - Cultural Activities: Ostrava Music Festival is one of the best events in Europe. In addition, the Silesian Ostrava Castle hosts some cultural events. - Tourist Attractions: Including the Silesian Ostrava Castle, 13th-century cathedrals, and other historical buildings, as well as mines and nearby museums, and unique street art.