bara (it has some old frescoes), and on the north side of the great rectangular place stands the old town-hall built in renaissance style in the 16th century In the past, it was occassionally the meeting-place of the diet. Of modern buildings worthy of notice, we would mention; the historical and industrial museum, the new Theatre and the citizen’s club-house. The name of Plzeň (Pilsen) is known throughout the world, to a great extent on account of its famous beer. There are several large breweries that worthily uphold the good name of the town by the production of a high-class quality of beer; but, the brewery generally acknowledged to stand in the front rank is that of Plzeňský měšťanský pivovar.
There are also several distilleries. The other prominent industries are: Škoda’s large iron-works, machine and gun factory, pottery (China and other kinds), paper-mills and furniture manufactories.
Bohemia’s first printing press was established at Plzeň in 1468, amongst the earliest works produced were: The History of Troy The New Testament (1445 and 1481), and the first almanac (1498).
Within a short distance of Plzeň, is the favourite Lochotín park and mineral baths.
From Plzeň we go to Rokycany (23 km). In this romantic neighbourhood, a number of celtic remains have been discovered with lines of the old fortifications etc.
We next come to Holoubkov (32 km), this is a finely wooded district. Industry here is chiefly centred in several extensive iron-works and foundries.
Next comes the castle Zbirov (42 km), and Hořovice (53 km), a town on a picturesque slope. Its decanal church of St. Aegidius dates from the 14th. century. Here too is the castle of the Prince of Hanau.
To the North are the ruins of the castle Točník once a favourite seat of Wenceslaus IV.
From Hořovice we go right on to Prague (116 km) viâ Beroun and Karlův Týn.
Railway fares for a circular ticket (including the route described). FIRST-CLASS: 82.18 crowns, SECOND CLASS: 54·77 crowns.
