Karla Alejandra is an emerging artist who stands out due to her understanding of colour composition and personal warmth After studying abroad for a semester in the Czech Republic and finishing her studies in her home country of Mexico Her work has been featured in a range of digital and physical exhibitions across Mexico (Pachuca Her paintings have also been part of art auctions reflecting a growing presence in both curated spaces and collectors’ circles Brno Daily spoke to Karla to find out more about her craft and her artistic vision.  How did you develop your current style?  but not necessarily in the traditional sense alone yes—but there’s also listening to your intuition the discovering that shapes a language of your own always aiming for something honest—something that resonates beyond the canvas and just as we evolve that’s what makes it powerful and that’s what makes it worth living with BD: Are there any outstanding names that you feel have particularly influenced your own work and try to understand other artists—from the old masters to the anonymous creators of pre-Renaissance times when art was often made to serve a purpose I look at everything—from the avant-garde movements to contemporary icons and even the not-yet-known artists who are quietly creating profound moving work away from the spotlight.Nevertheless one artist who has deeply influenced me is Remedios Varo I remember standing in front of her paintings several years ago and feeling completely drawn into her world Her art wasn’t just surreal—it was structured What struck me even more was her as a woman artist not trying to follow any path—just building her own to me it is very inspiring seeing a woman with her own artistic voice dominating the space with incredible artworks.  K: I see art as a space for connection—an open mirror where each viewer might recognise a part of themselves but what I feel—and I hope others find their own stories reflected there: their perspectives art lives between the real and the imagined It’s a quiet language that invites reflection and self-recognition—a shared space where stories overlap and meaning unfolds My portraits are often where this language takes its clearest form I weave together figurative elements with touches of abstraction and surrealism creating a space where the inner world meets the outer—where symbolism and emotion find room to breathe all serve as visual anchors—echoes of feeling and memory I also create landscapes that allow for a more intuitive exploration of texture and palette I’ve been drawn to Czech scenery: highlands and skies that feel both soft and infinite These settings become dreamlike spaces like the ones we all enjoy on a nice spring or summer day my abstract pieces offer a different kind of language without the need for a figure or a narrative I let go completely—I follow the energy rather than guide it While my art doesn’t follow a political agenda it remains personal and emotional and aims to connect with the people who see it BD: What materials or techniques do you currently feel more comfortable working with I love working with oils because they allow me to work with time and detail—qualities that I value deeply in my process The richness and depth the oils bring to a painting offer a level of craftsmanship and technique that feels timeless which gives each piece its own sense of exclusivity Oil painting provides a more immersive and intentional experience where every layer and stroke contributes to the final vision I often complement my oil paintings with golden leaf accents radiant touch that elevates the overall composition which give me a unique texture and finish I really enjoy and I also work with watercolors and serigraphy I’ve experimented with other techniques like gouache but oil paint and oil pastels remain as my main mediums BD: Tell us more about one of your personal favourite paintings.  K: One of my most iconic works is Golden Shower This painting holds a special place in my collection not only because of its visual impact but also for the layers of meaning it conveys The piece invites viewers to expand their perspectives exploring the delicate balance between movement embodies a surrealist connection between nature and identity and the power of embracing one’s true self The golden accents in the painting add depth and richness creating a dreamlike atmosphere while complementing the delicate yet dynamic energy of the composition.  BD: Does the experience of being an immigrant affect your understanding of your own art and the outcome of it K: Definitely—it has impacted my art on a deep human level shaping the way I express emotion and narrate my journey through painting Living abroad brings a unique emotional feeling—one that blends nostalgia You begin to feel like you belong nowhere entirely and you are forced to constantly rebuild and rediscover yourself All of that inevitably seeps into the work BD: How has the Czech Republic influenced you as a person and as an artist I’ve found myself more connected than ever to nature expressive skies have all started to show up in my paintings I’ve been especially inspired by Vysočina which is such a lovely region and a peaceful atmosphere that stays with you BD: How different is the scene here in Central Europe in comparison to the one in Mexico K: The art scenes in Mexico and Central Europe are very different—but equally rich in inspiration and opportunity there’s an energy that comes from bold colours Larger pieces and unique styles tend to resonate well there In Central Europe—especially in places like the Czech Republic—the connection often comes through quieter tones Many collectors here are drawn to works that feel familiar It’s not about one being better—each place has its own artistic rhythm and audience Certain pieces find their home more easily in one region than another it’s about matching the right artwork with the right person I love seeing how different niches respond to different aspects of my work and how both spaces have helped shape my journey BD: Some people argue that the AI revolution is a menace for humanities and fine arts How is your generation facing this threat?  K: AI is definitely a useful tool for administrative and personal tasks and I find it helpful in aspects like organisation and planning My art is created through traditional techniques physical connection that comes with handcrafting each piece that AI simply can’t replicate There’s something deeply meaningful about having an original piece on your wall—a one-of-a-kind creation that carries the emotions and technique with which you can connect and feel when you look at it you can feel it and connect with it Owning an original painting is more than just buying art; it’s an investment in something that tells a story and becomes part of your legacy—something to live with and even pass down through generations holding value and history BD: Do you rely solely on selling your works Are grants or sponsorships necessary for you to be able to focus on what matters the most I’m supported by a sponsorship that allows me to stay true to my style and artistic vision I also create custom paintings based on special requests which is always a rewarding experience—it’s beautiful to collaborate and bring someone’s vision to life through my own language I’ve started offering curatorship services for emerging artists It’s a growing part of my practice where I help others find their voice I believe in creating opportunities not just for myself BD: How do you balance the craft and the business side to it in order to support yourself financially K: Balancing the craft with the business side of things can be challenging ensuring my creative process remains uninterrupted while also managing the administrative tasks that come with being an artist I think of these as an extension of my work and I try to be active and present in different events and among the artistic community Are you working on any new projects you would like to share with our readers I’m focusing on deepening my work in oil painting  portraiture which has become one of the most recognisable and iconic aspects of my style I’m also happy to share that I’ll be exhibiting once again in Germany this May with a team I’ve been working closely with for several months—GalleryTalk—where my digital gallery is hosted I was selected among the top 5 artists from around 900 participants and awarded for an outstanding exhibition early this year They run a wonderful and visionary project and I’d love to invite you all to check it out As well I have plans to join some more international exhibitions throughout the year I’m exploring ways to bridge the physical and digital realms by integrating blockchain elements into select pieces It’s a quiet but intentional step toward creating new pieces I’m excited to start developing artworks that speak to the Web3 community BD: Where can the public find your work at the moment How can people interested acquire your art K: You can currently find my work exhibited at a lovely coffee shop in the city centre of Brno where I love connecting art with everyday spaces and local communities my official website showcases a broader selection of my paintings while my digital gallery hosted by GalleryTalk offers a curated collection of artworks in an interactive experience— including select pieces also exhibited in Munich These commissioned pieces are deeply meaningful—portraits or color stories crafted to reflect your vision Advertise with us Privacy Policy Brno Daily is a Czech media outlet for expats Our partners The 2027 IFSC Climbing and Para Climbing World Championships will be held in the Czech city of Brno. Following a presentation made to the IFSC General Assembly in Larnaca, Cyprus, the hosts were confirmed with a 53.25% majority by the delegates in favour of the Czech bid. Presented by Czech Federation President Jan Bloudek and Sport Director Vojtěch Albrecht, the venue is set to be the newly built Arena Brno, a state-of-the art multifunctional arena in the second largest Czech city. Organised by the Czech National Federation, it means the 2027 Championships will return to Europe following the upcoming 2025 event in Seoul, South Korea later in the year, and the successful Olympic qualifying Bern 2023 event. Czechia has hosted World Cups in recent times with Prague the destination for the past two years and also set for a third successive event in 2025, and Brno was one of the hosts during the very first IFSC World Cup season in 2007. The Brno bid was chosen ahead of a bid from Beijing, China, also a World Cup venue in 2007 and current Series hosts. Dates for the championships will be confirmed in due course and will be announced when confirmed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by IFSC (@ifsclimbing) The 7.5 FK was designed to bridge the gap between pistol and rifle ammunition Compared to classic pistol calibers like the .45 ACP and even 9mm Luger the bullet in the 7.5 FK is relatively tiny and that’s reflected in the average bullet weight But you compare the muzzle energy of the 7.5 FK to those pistol calibers it blows them out of the water through the sheer speed of the muzzle velocity This is not a gun for the budget-conscious firearm enthusiast To help offset the ammo cost, FK BRNO offers a conversion barrel for $175 The Italian Firearm Group included one in my review package FK BRNO also offers a 9mm conversion barrel requiring separate magazines and a different recoil spring I waffled for a while deciding the best way to test this beast of a pistol when Adam Scepaniak shipped me a ballistic gel dummy so I could test and compare 7.5 FK against 9mm I decided that it was only appropriate to make a video documenting the test and results: Note that I misstated the cost of the PSD-C in the video I said it’s $1,600 when it’s $1,495—I confused it for the FK BRNO PSD Read on for more analysis of the pistol and my range test I’m willing to bet it would be an even match for both Radscorpions and renegade replicants Part of what makes the PSD-C look so aggressive is the extra bulk under the muzzle thanks to its “proprietary recoil attenuating system” — i.e. a big-ass recoil spring with a lot of extra empty space inside I’m not aware of any holsters yet made for the PSD-C so this isn’t exactly going to be a concealed carry option well-curved with a nice rough grippy surface It pretty much functions like a standard hammer-fired 1911 with a manual safety There’s also a front rail for lights and other accessories the included pinpoint sights are tiny and hard to see My other quibble is that the slide is surprisingly skinny and therefore hard to grip as the PSD-C is cut for Aimpoint ACRO optics if you’re like me and only have RMR red dots the RMR to ACRO adapter plates aren’t cheap I took the PSD-C out in my backyard for a spin at 3 yards with five rounds and I was immediately impressed with the 7.5 FK and the PSD-C’s recoil management my initial grouping was a bit less respectable I opened up with five more rounds and improved my score significantly which isn’t my favorite pistol cartridge due to its “snappy” nature There’s something about .40 S&W’s recoil which feels very artificial to me but I barely noticed the recoil from the PSD-C I should add that changing barrels in the PSD-C is simple: Push the slide slightly out of battery It’s only slightly more challenging than changing a Glock’s barrel and is easy enough to do in the field My accuracy suffered with the .40 S&W as my shots drifted down from the bullseye but these five rounds produced my tightest grouping of the lot which pushed the upper limits of the PSD-C with an uncomfortable kick which you can see reflected in my groupings But how do these calibers compare in a real target These are copper hollow points with no lead The 7.5 FK creates a truly gnarly wound channel with two clear bullet fragments left inside poor Ted and then a secondary expansion that closes to resemble the tip of a spear I shot Ted with an Armscor USA 180-grain .40 S&W jacketed hollow point This was easily the most disappointing shot of the lot and a wound channel that resembled a stream of urine specifically Winchester 175-grain Silvertip—reportedly highly effective against werewolves you can see the three side-by-side: The .40 “stream” at the top the massive wound channel of the 10mm auto in the middle Since I didn’t have the 9mm conversion barrel I pulled out my daily carry Glock 43X and fired one round of 115-grain 9mm Hornady Critical Defense into Ted The photo below shows the clearest comparison: With the 9mm on the left with a similar—albeit smaller—wound channel to the 7.5 FK it wasn’t quite as accurate as .40 S&W but produced a much greater wound channel It’s also worth noting that the 7.5 FK performs like the 10mm Auto in a much smaller package—the same magazine can hold 14 rounds of 7.5 FK but only 10 rounds of .40 S&W or 10mm Auto it’s also a very expensive cartridge to shoot and you’re limited to FK BRNO’s small lineup of pistols with a dearth of accessory options I’ve greatly enjoyed testing this gun, but I also love free beer. Ultimately, we have to ask: Who is this for? For the roughly $1,500 price point, there are many more “fun” guns I could buy. So I must defer to Rusty S.’s 2021 review of the FK BRNO PSD This is his final verdict on the original PSD: the most easily accessible and controllable of any ‘hand cannon’ that I have shot…Is the ammo expensive that’s comparable to what 9mm HST is currently going for and 7.5FK is available.” “I would recommend the FK Brno PSD for anyone who spends a lot of time in the backcountry or other areas where one might be dealing with ornery large animals I would also recommend it as an excellent hunting handgun Bottom line: it’s like having an AK shrunken down to the size of a large handgun and that’s pretty amazing in and of itself and it will supplant my 10mm pistols for hunting and large animal defense.” the PSD-C loaded with 7.5 FK would be my first choice of sidearm The sandpaper grip and excellent recoil compensation would be a godsend when soaked with sweat and piss shooting at an angry bear Something like a nice Safariland ALS or SLS that would hold it tightly against my hip or leg duct tape it to my backpack or lug it around in the biggest Uncle Mike’s I could find It’s a bit silly and a shame that a compact pistol has no real options for holsters Thanks to Chris at the Italian Firearm Group for sending me the pistol and ammo, and Adam Scepaniak for sending me Ted Josh is the Editor in Chief of The Fire Arm Blog More by Josh C Another example of a firearm that's read about by many and bought by almost no one. “Fantastic read! The analysis of the PSD-C is thorough and well-informed. I really appreciate how the article highlights the craftsmanship behind the firearm and gives an honest breakdown of its features. It's clear that a lot of effort went into both testing and presenting the pros and cons. Definitely excited to see more content like this on the site!” Brno Back to topAttractionsMust-see attractionsVila Tugendhat Brno had a reputation in the 1920s as a centre for modern architecture in the Bauhaus style Arguably the finest example is this family villa Labyrinth under the Cabbage Market the city has opened several sections of extensive underground tunnels to the general public This tour takes around 60 minutes to explore… Špilberk Castle Brno's spooky hilltop castle is considered the city's most important landmark Its history stretches back to the 13th century Cathedral of Sts Peter & Paul This 14th-century cathedral atop Petrov Hill was originally built on the site of a pagan temple to Venus and has been reconstructed many times since Church of St James This austere 15th-century church contains a baroque pulpit with reliefs of Christ dating from 1525 But the biggest draw is a small stone figure known as… Parnassus Fountain At the centre of Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) is the curious baroque Parnassus Fountain (1695) Moravian Museum This natural history and ethnographic museum holds some six million pieces and is the country's second-largest Exhibits straddle the gulf between extinct… Old Town Hall No visit to Brno would be complete without a peek inside the city's medieval Old Town Hall parts of which date back to the 13th century View more attractionsPlanning ToolsExpert guidance to help you plan your tripDay Trips Here's why you should consider Brno for your next European city break. ArticlesLatest stories from BrnoRead more articlesDay Trip No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission Mpox (monkeypox) Campaigns Events Multimedia Newsletters Spotlights The European Health Report 2024 Ukraine emergency Second European Programme of Work The city of Brno in Czechia allows citizens to directly influence how public funds are allocated through a project called Dáme na vás (It’s up to you) building bike lanes or organizing community events residents can shape Czechia’s second-largest city by proposing and voting on projects that meet local needs including the Environmental Education Centre Hlídka near Špilberk Castle which provides ecological education for young children and their parents were showcased during a political committee meeting of the European Healthy Cities Network \"Participatory budgeting is a powerful tool for involving citizens in the decision-making process It ensures that our city's growth reflects the real needs of its residents,\" said Brno's Vice-Mayor Filip Chvátal In 2023 Brno reserved 35 million crowns (about 1.42 million euros) for participatory budgeting Each project can receive up to 203 000 euros which means that the top 7 projects can be funded each year a plan to revitalize a neglected park in the Židenice district received 3500 votes increasing green spaces and improving lighting for safety Building on this idea of community-driven change the city carefully reviews all proposals to ensure they are feasible and compliant with legal requirements before they are put to the vote by residents over the age of 18 The projects that receive the most votes are then funded by the city and brought to life Brno's commitment to participatory budgeting is part of its broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for its citizens “By involving its residents in the budgeting process Brno not only strengthens community engagement but also ensures that the city's development aligns with the health well-being and happiness of its people,” Vice-Mayor Chvátal added The city of Brno is an active member of the European Healthy Cities Network a WHO initiative that brings together cities across the WHO European Region that prioritize health and well-being in their policies and practices the city of Brno hosted the Network’s political committee meeting to map its priorities the “City leadership for health and sustainable development” report was launched aimed at decision-makers and professionals provides valuable insights and recommendations for starting leading and implementing Healthy Cities initiatives If you are a city leader in the European Region seeking to amplify your city's health initiatives, you can join this impactful network by emailing eurohealthycities@who.int "Participatory budgeting is a powerful tool for involving citizens in the decision-making process It ensures that our city's growth reflects the real needs of its residents," said Brno's Vice-Mayor Filip Chvátal If you are a city leader in the European Region seeking to amplify your city's health initiatives, you can join this impactful network by emailing eurohealthycities@who.int WHO European Healthy Cities Network City leadership for health and sustainable development: critical issues for successful Healthy Cities initiatives in the WHO European Region Czechia Climate change Environment and health Health services delivery Health systems governance Physical activity Social determinants of health Urban health Brno Museum Night returns for its 21st edition offering a rich evening of cultural exploration throughout the city the event gives visitors the opportunity to explore Brno’s museums historic buildings and cultural institutions in the unique atmosphere of the night-time city Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme featuring exhibitions theatrical performances and special activities designed for all ages Additional programming is offered by many venues for this occasion with familiar institutions being cast in a new and engaging light Tickets are either free or subject to a nominal fee of up to 50 CZK an Infobus will be stationed at Náměstí Svobody from 14-16 May and will continue to serve as an information hub More information and updates can be found on the Brno Museum Night’s Facebook event President Petr Pavel and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy held talks in Prague yesterday to discuss the development of the situation in Ukraine and the possibilities of post-war reconstruction in which the Czech Republic wants to participate Pavel told at a joint press conference after their meeting said he appreciated the Czech Republic for its efforts to stop Russian aggression and that the Czech munitions initiative is working excellently Zelenskiy said that Ukraine greatly appreciates the Czech Republic’s support for its European efforts He expressed regret that some European leaders are blocking the process and suggested they are only doing so to get a better seat on the Red Square tribune Pavel stated that if Russia succeeded in the war it would have direct negative consequences for the Czechs If Russia were rewarded for its aggression this would confirm that the Kremlin’s manner of pursuing its foreign policy objectives is correct He stressed that it was in the Czech Republic’s immediate interest that the outcome of the peace negotiations which will hopefully begin in the near future should not be that the aggressor is rewarded and the victim He said the Czech Republic would support Ukraine in its ambitions to become a member of the European Union and NATO He also pledged further support for Ukraine through the supply of ammunition Zelenskiy said Ukraine needs more sanctions against Russia and also a tangible increase in mutual defence cooperation across Europe He also noted that reconstruction of hospitals is a high priority for the embattled country with hundreds of them damaged as a result of Russian attacks it will be necessary to build an entirely new medical network The two presidents also spoke yesterday about efforts to create a Ukrainian training centre for F-16 fighter pilots we cannot set up such a training centre on the territory of Ukraine because Russian attacks continue every day,” said Zelenskiy “We are working with our partners to do everything possible to establish such a training center outside Ukraine.”  Ukraine is asking its partners to increase pressure on Russia because without such pressure it will not take any steps to end the war but it should last at least 30 days to provide a realistic chance for diplomacy Zelenskiy has a number of meetings scheduled in Prague today including with opposition politicians and representatives of the Chamber of Deputies as he would like to convey to representatives of the Czech Parliament that the security of Ukraine and the Czech Republic is also a guarantee of the security of Europe Pavel aso said the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine is out of the question until a peace agreement is reached economic and military guarantees could be enough to guarantee peace for Ukraine once an agreement is reached “At the moment there are no specific negotiations on what troops what units could possibly be deployed in Ukraine We are really still far from that,” said Pavel He argued that there was no point in announcing a ceasefire for one as “it is impossible to start peace talks in such a short period of time.” If anyone had expressed a will for a 30-day ceasefire “We need to remember that if anyone really holds all the cards to end the war But so far he has shown no such real will,” Pavel said The closing concert of the Easter Festival of Sacred Music performed by Filharmonie Brno on 27 April in the Church of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist offered a deeply spiritual and emotional experience The evening featured a purely instrumental programme under the direction of conductor Anna-Maria Helsing creating a meditative space that resonated beautifully with the sacred setting of the church The first piece on the programme was “The Lark Ascending” by Ralph Vaughan Williams composed in 1914 for solo violin and orchestra the work explores moments of extreme sweetness and delicacy alternating with pastoral phrases that engage in a gentle dialogue with the orchestra The delicate orchestration allows the soloist and ensemble to remain in perfect balance reflecting the beauty and flight of a lark soaring high in the sky The violin’s soaring lines vividly portray the bird’s song and ascent while the subtle harmonies and flowing melodies create a timeless which can be described as a single-movement violin concerto was masterfully performed by the orchestra and soloist Josef Špaček After insistent and enthusiastic applause from the audience Špaček treated listeners to a breathtaking encore: “Aurora” by Eugène Ysaÿe providing a brilliant and memorable conclusion to his performance The second piece on the programme was Symphony No Iconic despite its relatively recent composition in 1994 is eloquent in its ability to transport the listener into a mystical atmosphere Alternating delicate cantabile moments with sections of tension and dynamic leaps the work evokes the sense of “a dream,” as suggested by the title of the third movement the concert provided the perfect conclusion to the festival transporting the sold-out audience on a profound and meditative journey filled with emotional depth and reflection and leaving a lasting impression on everyone who attended the 16th edition of Divadelní svět Brno (‘Theatre World Brno’; DSB) will bring over 70 theatrical performances and events to audiences in Brno Showcasing a curated selection of international productions from Poland the festival offers audiences an eclectic mix of drama dance performances and site-specific projects As one of the largest theatre festivals in the Czech Republic DSB is a unique collaboration between the Brno National Theatre Radost Theatre and the artistic spaces of the Theatre Faculty of JAMU – Studio Marta and Divadlo na Orlí (DNO) the organisers will open the foyer of the Janáček Theatre where they will set up an Open Festival House presenting an all-day theatre programme for all ages in a space not usually open to the public outside of performances The opening programme will culminate with the NdB2 Ballet Company’s ‘Ark Project’ a dance performance on the theme of our planet as the symbolic Ark of humanity Festival Premiere of the International Project Quanta and Highlights from the International Line-Up The Open Festival House will be followed at the Janáček Theatre by the highlight of the festival ‘Quanta’ was created by the Lithuanian National Drama Theatre in collaboration with DSB the Divine Comedy International Theatre Festival (Poland) the Onassis Stegi arts organisation (Greece) and the deSingel cultural centre (Belgium) Set in a fictional Swiss hotel amidst the greatest figures of interwar physics the production offers audiences a mesmerising and sophisticated multimedia experience enhanced by its scale on the Janáček Theatre stage with quantum physics not only providing a backdrop to the interwar political situation and the personal stories of the characters but also driving the scenes in the performance with a second performance on 21 May at 6pm there will be a live recording of the ‘Diary N Spheres’ podcast at the Reduta Theatre focusing on the centenary of the rise of quantum physics “Our aim is to establish the festival as one of the leading European festivals,” said Martin Glaser “Following current production trends and participating in a project that none of the cooperating institutions could otherwise afford alone was the next logical step for us We are glad that this happened with Quanta a project directed by the renowned Łukasz Twarkowski whose work the audience will recognise from last year’s successful production of The Employees at the Brno Exhibition Centre.” The other two major performances at the festival are also a result of collaboration The first is a production by Warsaw’s Diversity Theatre entitled ‘When the Snow Melts’ which tells the dramatic contemporary story of a Polish family Created with the Polish Adam Mickiewicz Institute it will be performed at the Reduta Theatre on 27 May co-produced by the Slovak National Theatre and the Vienna Schauspielhaus This heartwarming story depicts the longing for freedom of a doctor who have to cope with personal hardships and the challenges of their era which maps the period from the 1950s to the 1980s and stars Richard Stanek at the Drama Stage of the Brno City Theatre on Saturday 24 May at 3pm and 8pm Another production by the Drama Department of the Slovak National Theatre is to be presented: ‘Odliv’ a performance about a contemporary Slovak phenomenon –  the departure of young educated people (but not only them) from their homeland it will be performed on 23 May at the Reduta Theatre The varied selection of Slovak works in the programme is intentional as it aims to provide a comprehensive reflection of contemporary Slovak culture The emphasis on Slovak theatre is covered by a special dramaturgical strand called ‘Theatre is the centre of interest’ a programme in collaboration with the weekly magazine Respekt The programme of foreign productions for adults will close with a popular production: ‘Because the Night’ by Theatre Bremen about the legendary American singer Patti Smith on 24 May at 6pm and on 25 May at 5pm at the Mahen Theatre Foreign productions will also be on display for children to enjoy One of this year’s puppet shows for children aged five and over is ‘Robinson.ka’ produced by the award-winning children’s theatre company ODIVO and presented by the Žilina Puppet Theatre This production tells the story of a little girl who lives in the middle of the sea a production by Bratislava’s LUDUS Theatre based on Homer’s famous epic and updated for young audiences by one of Germany’s most successful contemporary authors What happened to the history student who was tasked with retelling the story of Odysseus Young viewers will find out at the festival on 26 May The international offering for children is completed by the Norwegian production ‘Coming from Afar’ by NIE Theatre This intimate production features a yurt ‘growing’ on the Mahen Theatre stage where the audience will learn about the fate of Syrian refugees this performance uses shadow theatre principles and is accompanied by live music The DSB festival is known for its line of dance and movement productions that differ from the genre of classical ballet – this year’s programme includes three such shows The first is a dance production with spoken word based on the book ‘The Seagull’ by Jonathan Livingston presented by the acclaimed Czech dance company DEKKADANCERS in collaboration with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra Audience members will have the opportunity to meet the dancers and actors Jiří Lábus and Vilém Udatný who will perform alongside the Czech theatre and film composer Ivan Acher This performance will be presented on 25 May at the Music Stage of the Brno City Theatre The second dance production will be ‘The Collection of Vices’ This new comedic circus performance is based on a well-known project by Kateřina Šedá mapping the bad habits everyone experiences throughout their life audience members will have the opportunity to revisit these familiar vices on the Music Stage of the Brno City Theatre The last dance production of this year’s festival is ‘Fairy Tales’ co-produced by the Tanec Praha dance festival and presented as part of the ‘Echoes of the Small Inventory’ programme from the Prague theatre festival This suggestive movement and visual experience for eight women will be performed on 27 May at the Mahen Theatre.  “We are glad that we can invite leading Czech dancers to perform on major festival stages and that these performances are so popular with audiences This clearly shows us that Czech dance art is not on the periphery of audience interest but is creating modern and interesting productions that we can include in the festival’s dance programme,” said Karel Littera the festival’s dramaturge and NdB Ballet’s artistic director When it comes to the children’s programme DSB is building on last year’s collaboration with the Theatre Institute and the Institute of Arts to organise an international theatre critics’ conference as well as a professional meeting of ASSITEJ an organisation representing European activities in the field of children’s and young adult theatre and the productions presented at the DSB festival will showcase Czech theatre for children and young people The meeting will also offer networking opportunities The traditional children’s theatre company Naivné divadlo Liberec will bring its production ‘The Red Balloon’ to the festival for the youngest audience a little boy tries to save his friend — the red balloon — from the pitfalls of his surroundings The performance will take place on 24 May in the basement theatre at Husa na provázku The festival will also feature Divadlo Minor one of the most popular theatres in the Czech Republic they will present their production of ‘Hamlet’ at the Polárka Theatre The Ostrava Puppet Theatre has prepared an adaptation of a literary classic for young audiences: ‘Pilot and the Little Prince’ This year is also the sixth year of the festival’s ‘Performance Incubator’ project through which Czech independent theatre groups can realise projects – in collaboration with DSB – which would otherwise be beyond the limitations of their resources.  we have supported sixteen projects that have premiered at the festival,” explained Barbara Gregorová as we have prepared several exciting new offerings in collaboration with these companies.”  This year’s biggest co-production project prepared by DSB in cooperation with the Letí Theatre is the immersive production ‘The Last One Out’ which will be presented at the Brno Káznice This production is the result of a two-year workshop supported by the international Fabulamundi – Playwriting Europe network will present their original vision of preparations for the end of the world allowing the audience to experience it first-hand The Ufftenživot association will present ‘Daddy Can’t Do It Anymore!’ by Jiří Šimek and Sara Arnstein an experimental theatre project by D’epog It will be performed on 25 May at 6 pm and 9 pm in the Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) The programme then features Around the Corner of the World the latest project from Prague’s Studio Hrdinů which will premiere at the Husa na provázku Theatre on 28 May a work-in-progress project co-produced by the Brno theatre group Aldente which has worked with people with Down syndrome for a long time will be presented in the basement theatre on 27 May DSB will showcase the most successful Czech theatre productions Slovácké divadlo from Uherské Hradiště will present ‘How We Got Here’ a production written specifically for the theatre and its company Starring the company’s leading actresses the production will be staged at the Drama Stage of the Brno Municipal Theatre on 25 May The National Moravian-Silesian Theatre will bring the classical ancient tragedy ‘Medea’ directed by Jakub Šmíd and staged at the Mahen Theatre on 26 May is Friedrich Schiller’s ‘Maria Stuart’ updated by British theatre director and novelist Robert Icke Starring Magdalena Holcová and Alexandra Palatinusová and directed by Petr Bezruč Theatre artistic director Jan Holc the production will be staged on 26 May at the Drama Stage of the Brno City Theatre Prague’s NoD will present Šmejdi útočí This production is based on real-life stories in which the person on the other end of the phone internet connection or table has only one goal: to get money from your credit card It will be performed at the festival on 23 May at DNO The popular Geisslers Hofcomoedianten are returning to the festival with ‘Simply Simplicius’ based on the book by Hans Jakob Christoffel von Grimmelshausen and subtitled ‘Forrest Gump against the backdrop of the Thirty Years’ War’ Audiences will have the opportunity to meet the author on 25 May at Studio Marta The organising theatres will have the opportunity to showcase their work to visitors from outside Brno starring Tomáš Šulaj and Viktor Kuzník and directed by Jakub Šmíd This production has recently made a significant impact on both audiences and critics It has been included in the programme for 22 May at the Mahen Theatre the Reduta Theatre will host ‘The Hourly Hotelier’ starring Vladimír Krátký and Bedřich Výtisk The Brno City Theatre will also present its latest productions at the festival: ‘Father’ based on the film starring Anthony Hopkins will be staged at the Drama Stage on 27 May while on the Musical Stage the theatre will present ‘The Summer of the Jackal’ The Husa na provázku Theatre is including two new productions in its showcase this year The first is ‘Once the Children Thank Us for It’ a production based on a prose novel by Petr Šesták starring Dominik Teleky a successful representative of the younger generation of Czech directors The second is ‘From the Sexual Life of Our People’ by Daniela Špinar which will be staged in the Provázek.sklep space on 26 May Children’s theatre company Polárka will also present two productions at the festival: ‘Love from TikTok’ on 20 May at the Small Stage; and ‘First Time’ Radost Theatre will present an adaptation of the well-known literary classic ‘Animal Farm’ and on 28 May it will present ‘1950: Horáková ON AIR’ a project about a dark period in modern Czech history The Theatre Faculty at the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts (JAMU) has prepared the premieres of its latest productions ‘Orlando’ and ‘Family Institute (Fun Home)’ As part of the presentation of Brno’s theatre productions the festival is placing greater emphasis on the city’s independent theatre scene which is why this year’s programme also includes a performance by the 3+kk Theatre entitled ‘Franz Kafka Lives’ A new feature of this year’s festival is the ‘Theatre Trips’ programme Three productions will be shown with an accompanying programme that the audience will be able to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes the festival will take theatre fans to the New Stage of the National Theatre where they will see the performance ‘Wernisch’ The final event of this kind in this year’s programme will be a trip on 21 June to the iconic Rotating Auditorium in Český Krumlov where they will see the South Bohemian Theatre’s production of ‘Sense and Sensibility’ The ticket price includes a ticket to the performance and access to an on-site accompaniment programme Tickets for all performances are available to purchase online via the festival website in advance at the Brno National Theatre Customer Centre and at the participating theatres’ pre-sale points The 37th edition of Filharmonie Brno’s ‘Exposition of New Music’ Festival will take place from 31 May to 4 June offering a deep insight into the works of French composer Erik Satie in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of his death “The programming is based on the idea that Satie’s influence continues to permeate music today across genres and settings,” explained Marie Kučerová our aim is to reach not only lovers of progressive music but also those looking for new ways to experience the world around them.” The festival events will take place not only in concert halls but also in locations where music naturally intersects with daily life Satie symbolises freedom and unconventional thinking not only musically,” said festival dramaturge Daniel Matej “His work transcended stylistic boundaries and often challenged conventional ideas about what constitutes art That’s exactly what we aim to express in this year’s festival programme.” The festival kicks off on Saturday 31 May with ‘Satie City’ a site-specific ‘musical ride’ that will bring Satie’s music to life in the streets of Brno Moravské and Římské namestí will be filled with pianists performing Satie’s “furniture music” (which could be described as ambient today) This Satie-inspired afternoon journey through Brno will culminate in a ceremonial performance of his ‘Messe des pauvres’ at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on Masarykova preceded by ‘Meditation before the Mass of the Poor’ by Peter Graham which was commissioned specifically for the festival.  though in a highly transformed form,” explained Graham “They are meant to evoke a sense of anticipation and quiet before encountering his remarkable work.” The rest of the festival will feature a diverse programme of contemporary works inspired by Satie’s music the ‘Satiollage’ project will blend new electronic compositions with a live electronic concert performed by teachers and students from the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts (JAMU) A world premiere will also be held at Villa Tugendhat: a collective composition of Satie’s famous ‘Morceaux en forme de poire’ cycle created by more than twenty composers from around the world Satie’s cabaret songs will be revived alongside his renowned piano cycle The festival will conclude on 4 June with an orchestral evening titled ‘Musicircus at Besední dům’ The Brno Contemporary Orchestra will perform Satie’s ‘Parade’ and Cage’s ‘Cheap Imitation’ The grand finale will be Cage’s iconic ‘Musicircus’ a musical happening featuring performers from the past five years of the Exposition of New Music unexpected combinations or unusual formats who taught us that music doesn’t need to be complicated to be profound,” added Matej Tickets are available online at filharmonie-brno.cz Visitors can also create their own ‘Festival à la carte’ with increasing discounts the more concerts they attend — starting at 20% off for two events which seeks dialogue between peoples and religions will receive a human rights award from the Sudeten German Landsmannschaft (SDL) at the Sudeten German Days in the Bavarian city Regensburg in June the festival spokeswoman Veronika Smyslova said in a press release yesterday “Meeting Brno is an impressive example of peacemakers and protagonists of understanding between nations through truth,” said SDL spokesman Bernd Posselt the organisers of Meeting Brno are sending a strong signal for a Europe of peace and human rights.”  the Meeting Brno festival has been creating a platform for dialogue about the common history of the Czech Republic and Germany especially in the context of post-war events It follows the Year of Reconciliation 2015 when Brno City Council adopted the Declaration of Reconciliation and expressed regret over the expulsion of the German-speaking inhabitants of Brno in 1945 The 10th edition of the Meeting Brno festival will take place from 29 May to 8 June with the main theme of the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  The festival program will include ten days of discussions About 150 people from the Sudeten German Landsmannschaft will take part The main guests include Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk who became campaigners for peace after both losing their daughters on different sides of the Israel-Palestine conflict Doctors from the Department of Paediatric Otorhinolaryngology at the Brno University Hospital (FN Brno) and the Medical Faculty of Masaryk University recently performed the first cochlear implant surgery in the Czech Republic using a robotic arm It was also one of the first such surgeries to be performed worldwide The surgical procedure involves inserting the cochlear implant electrode with the help of a special robotic arm This gently guides the electrode into the cochlea protecting the patient’s sensitive internal ear structures This type of robotic arm surgery restores hearing and offers the prospect of hearing without a cochlear implant in the future if the hair cells are protected and preserved “The aim of this robotic surgery is to protect the sensitive internal structures of the ear “Gene therapy is currently making great progress and it is likely that patients will be able to undergo this therapy to restore their dysfunctional hair cells within the next few years.”  the surgeon must create an access route to the inner ear and open the round window located on the cochlea The electrode bundle is then attached to a controlled robot to slowly and gently introduce the electrodes This unique operation takes less than two hours and is suitable for patients of all ages Patients stay in hospital for about four days after the operation after which they continue their care at home they return to the hospital to receive the external part of the implant — the audio processor — which is adjusted to their needs Czechia will host the Para Trap World Championships in September this year marking the seventh edition of the prestigious event and the first major World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS) championships to take place in the central European nation The Olympic Shotgun Skeet and Trap Brno Shooting Range a familiar venue on the World Shooting Para Sport Grand Prix circuit since 2020 The championships will kick off on 12 September with pre-event training followed by two days of intense competition (13–14 September) across three mixed sport classes: PT1 – Mixed Trap Seated PT2 – Mixed Trap Standing SG-L and PT3 – Mixed Trap Standing SG-U The shooting range will also host the sixth edition of the International Sellier & Bellot Para Trap Championship & WSPS Grand Prix in August said: “The Czech Disabled Shooting Association has been very committed to Para trap and we are excited to work with them to deliver a fantastic Para Trap World Championships this year This is another major milestone in the development of the discipline which has seen tremendous growth since joining WSPS in 2018 We have a very experienced Local Organising Committee (LOC) that has successfully hosted WSPS Grand Prix events in the past and we can’t wait to see the world’s best shotgun athletes in action again.” The previous edition of the Para Trap Worlds took place in Granada with 50 athletes from 16 nations competing Italy led the medal standings with two golds and four medals overall Czechia celebrated its first podium finish as Jaroslav Klimes secured a bronze medal in PT1 "It is a great honour and a great commitment for the Czech Disabled Shooting Association to organise the Brno 2025 Para Trap World Championships thanks to the experience we have gained during the five years of organising the International Sellier & Bellot Para Trap Championship & WSPS Grand Prix in Brno all the representatives and other participants will be satisfied," said Miroslav Lidinsky President of the Czech Disabled Shooting Association himself a representative of the Czech Republic in the Para Trap discipline “We are ready to organise the World Championships at a high level and I believe that we will meet many of our colleagues and top WSPS and ISSF officials in Brno during this exceptional sporting event" Ambassador of the Brno 2025 Para Trap World Championships and a member of the LOC Olympic gold and silver medallist in Trap discipline For more information about the Brno 2025 Para Trap World Championships, click here the consortium responsible for the expansion and modernization of the D1 highway in Brno one of the busiest road hubs in the Czech Republic This project aims to improve the capacity and safety of the intersection between the D1 the D1 will be widened to six lanes in the section surrounding the city as part of a modernization plan covering 30 kilometers from Kývalka to Holubice divided into seven interconnected developments The project involving OHLA includes the reconstruction of key interchanges at Brno South and Brno Center the transformation of the Kývalka interchange into an all-directional connection and the enhancement of other intersections to optimize traffic flow The works also involve the reconstruction of the roadway as well as the demolition and rebuilding of overpasses real-time traffic monitoring and control systems will be implemented to improve road safety and efficiency From an environmental and sustainability perspective the project will feature new noise barriers and an innovative road surface that will significantly reduce noise levels in nearby communities the use of recycled materials in construction will contribute to reducing the project’s carbon footprint Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025 with an execution period of 840 days plus an additional 180 days for final works The total budget amounts to CZK 3,196,383,193 (approximately €130,464,620) and will be funded by the Czech Republic’s Directorate of Roads and Highways with state and European Union funds the company strengthens its commitment to the community contributing to an improved quality of life for its residents The modernization of the D1 will not only reduce travel times and pollution but also enhance road safety and improve the efficiency of maintaining this key infrastructure for the region The space will drive innovation and community engagement BRNO, Czechia, June 12, 2024 — Kyndryl (NYSE: KD) the world's largest IT infrastructure services provider today announced the opening of its new Kyndryl Collaborative Czechia office space in Brno's Vlněna business park Combining the rich historic architecture of an old cotton factory with cutting-edge design Kyndryl Collaborative Czechia covers approximately 5,000 square meters and is designed to harness our local tech talent to drive innovation and help our customers modernize their IT estates “Kyndryl’s announcement today is a testament to its ongoing commitment to Brno and the development of IT skills This new space is a significant step forward and I look forward to further collaboration with Kyndryl within the entire region," said Jan Grolich Today's announcement comes on the heels of the Kyndryl Foundation's recent initiative which awarded grants to Czech non-profit organizations Czechitas and Sdružení VIA to promote cybersecurity skills and resilience At the new location, Kyndryl professionals will focus on delivering services via Kyndryl Bridge (Kyndryl’s AI-powered digital integration platform) applying proven methodologies and extensive capabilities to manage and improve a constantly changing technology lifecycle for customers Kyndryl will continue to use Kyndryl Bridge and now the new space will also enable co-creation with our customers Kyndryl Collaborative Czechia’s capabilities include helping customers of all sizes across different industries design and deploy new IT infrastructure environments that support key digital opportunities such as the future use of AI and machine learning Kyndryl experts speak more than seven languages Hungarian and Polish and are proficient in hundreds of technologies such as Cobol which allows Kyndryl to manage systems that are critical to ensuring optimal IT infrastructure performance for Kyndryl and Kyndryl's customers around the world — 24 x 7 x 365 Kyndryl Collaborative Czechia’s customers are market leaders  “Recognizing that the rapidly growing demand for modern IT skills far outpaces the supply of skilled workers we are excited to launch a new chapter for our employees in Kyndryl’s Collaborative Czechia in Brno," said Maria Falkiewicz-Gancarz ”By investing in cutting-edge skills and nurturing and developing our global talent pool our Kyndryl Collaboratives are committed to continuous learning and ongoing certification This constant state of evolution ensures that we not only meet but exceed market expectations enabling our customers to realize their full economic potential and scale in the digital future." It features energy-efficient systems adhering to BREEAM principles improved ventilation and encourages the use of public transport with provisions for bicycle storage with facilities that are easily accessible to people with disabilities and support a diverse workforce Kyndryl will continue its mission to transform industries and improve the digital landscape while making a positive contribution to the local community and environment Kyndryl rings the school bell on Career Discovery Week with dynamic kickoff Kyndryl issues statement in response to misleading report Women’s History Month 2025: Four CIOs charting new paths in technology From cyber security giant Avg Technologies to burgeoning rental platform Flatio the startup scene in the often-overlooked Czech city of Brno currently has a spring in its step The size and range of the startup ecosystem in Brno, the Czech Republic’s second biggest city, was on display at the recent Velvet Innovation conference The annual conference brings together startup luminaries from the South Moravia region This year the agenda included panel discussions on healthtech women in tech; along with talks from successful founders in the region; and podcasts and live pitches the sustainability expert and conference veteran who gave a speech on "sustainability supercharging innovation” The co-founder of the Brno-founded startup talked through the “emotional” sale process to Dynatrace He said he had long-known the startup would be sold or go public at some point in the future Markov said Runecast Solutions was sold for several reasons not just financial but also that the acquirer had a similar story to Runecast Solutions He said that interest in buying the startup came during a 2023 funding round when it was reporting recurring revenues of around €5m at a point when the startup began to be noticed by acquirers Markov also spoke about his choice not to use an investment bank to oversee the sale Markov said he thought he could negotiate a better price independently He said he was mindful of facing post-sale depression saying “a lot of founders when they get acquired Markov still works for Dynatrace but says it is a "very big switch” selling a startup The conference was hosted by the JIC Innovation agency, a key cog in the ecosystem an executive with the public-purpose-driven startup advisory firm explained its role in the Brno startup scene it acts as a liaison between all players in the south Moravian innovation economy including startups the JIC has grown into a multinational enterprise with dozens of employees and has helped more than 1,500 firms whose main office is located in the Technology Park provides more than 100 companies with its services every year “Today the JIC is a key player not just at the regional level but at the national level too.” said that “the mission to create global successful startups takes time” but one thing he would like to see is more overseas VC funding for later-stage startups in Brno believes there is a healthy cycle of reinvestment in the region from successful founders many founders from these exited companies are reinvesting their gains as business angels thereby fostering a robust cycle of innovation and entrepreneurship.” “If there’s one thing I’d like to see change for startups in the region it would be improvements in legislation around startup investment tax incentives “A model similar to what’s in place in Great Britain could significantly boost early-stage investments." One of the recent shining lights of the Brno startup scene is online rental startup Flatio whose first-floor offices overlook a beautiful sloping square in Brno It was co-founded in 2015 by the larger-than-life Radim Rezek and is focused on the mid-term rental market Flatio’s customers are “digital nomads” and it has a broader customer demographic including remote workers students and those wanting somewhere to stay during house renovations or medical treatment Flatio has more than 17,000 listings across 60 cities in 17 countries including countries such as its home market where it has recently acquired a rival business “Definitely on our radar is the UK,” added Rezek does not charge a deposit and payments are managed through the Flatio app Its revenues are around €1.3m a year and it is profitable he says there have been shifts away from Airbnb to Flatio with longer stay rentals “We see a lot of landlords who tend to start cooperating with us because they don’t want to cooperate with Airbnb “Tenants prefer Flatio because we have the lease agreement so is easier for them to ask for a Visa when they are relocating to a new market.” “I am seeing it is hard for the small players to succeed because of how financially intense is the business because of the product Flatio is now looking to raise €5m targeting international strategic investors to “speed up and expand more quickly across the markets” He says: “They can help us leverage their network and help us to grow.” Brno has been dubbed the Silicon Valley of Central Europe rivalling other European tech hubs like Silicon Dresden Marketa Lörinczy, CEO Phonexia "The best thing about being located in Brno is the dynamic startup scene and the presence of prestigious universities which create a rich pool of talented professionals and foster innovation “Brno’s thriving tech ecosystem and strategic location attract a diverse mix of companies leveraging this unique position is that Brno may not always be recognised as readily as Prague when working with Brno’s strategic location coupled with a network of universities and research institutions Ambitious startups of varying hues are the norm in Brno: engineers working on rockets and satellites destined for the moon sit cheek-by-jowl with multi-million-pound funded deep tech luring in local entrepreneurs and international companies alike One little-known fact is that South Moravia is also a leading microscope imaging tech hotspot with one in three electron microscopes in the world emanating from the area Another juicy fact is that 40 per cent of the global market for antivirus protections is driven by development centres based in Brno and its environs Over 30,000 IT engineers now work in the South Moravian region along with nearly a thousand game developers while Honeywell Siemens and IBM have research centres and subsidiaries in the region is the second-largest technical/engineering university in the Czech Republic and one of the leading educational scientific and research institutions in Central Europe Brno might lack the razzle-dazzle of London but it has had its fair share of successes One luminous startup emerging from Brno is cyber outfit AVG Technologies and was snapped up by software giant Avast for $1.3bn in 2016 Another is Brno-born global flight search engine and online travel agency Kiwi.com which General Atlantic is a major shareholder Kiwi.com has attracted managers from around the world to Brno and is largely seen as moving the ecosystem forward Also on the investor radar will be electron microscope producer Tescan IMAGE: PIXABAY The 10th edition of the Brno Music Marathon (‘Maraton Hudby Brno’) is set to take place from 7-10 August Offering four days of musical performances acoustic and experimental music from artists representing more than 10 countries dance and gastronomy at dozens of venues across the city as well as in artistically styled rooms where artist Kateřina Šedá will set up unconventional busking stages “As artist-in-residence – the one artist who performs throughout the entire festival– we always invite someone exceptional who can perform diverse programmes across genres and bring something extra,” explained festival dramaturge Milan Tesař Omar Sosa spontaneously joined the Piano Relay in the Alfa Passage and last year Vincent Peirani led a masterclass for accordionists from UNESCO Cities of Music will perform in three concerts: with his Trilok Gurtu Band and as he will be in Brno for the whole festival Thanks to these kinds of exceptional experiences the event has attracted an increasing number of foreign music journalists radio editors and festival organisers in recent years In cooperation with World Music Charts Europe we are preparing an accompanying programme for them The festival will open with a performance by the Estonian duo Puuluup who blend folk music with samples and the ancient talharpa instrument which sits at the intersection of poetry and experimentation is complemented by original dance creations Dubioza Kolektiv — a Bosnian band that combines anger and joy social commentary and unstoppable dance beats — will perform at the Velodrome The event will also feature Balkan rhythms and authentic cuisine The festival also provides a platform for projects that push genre boundaries electronic music and original compositions to create bold musical pieces consisting of Ridina Ahmedová on vocals and Petr Tichý on double bass will use a looper to transform their instruments into a cohesive musical landscape The six-member male vocal group Sila will perform with harmonies inspired by folklore and improvisation and the Polish trio Sutari will captivate audiences with their original arrangements and feminine energy Another traditional part of the programme is the matinee performance by harpsichordist Barbara Maria Willi she invites talented students from the Summer Music Academy in Kroměříž to Brno where they perform alongside renowned Czech and international musicians Thanks to its collaboration with the ZUŠ Open project the Music Marathon will also feature performances by gifted students from elementary art schools such as the Piano Relay in the Alfa Passage and the all-day organ marathon at the Jesuit Church For more information about the programme and tickets, visit maratonhudby.cz Routes is part of the Informa Markets Division of Informa PLC “We are delighted to have experienced year-on-year growth in terms of passenger numbers for the third time in a row this is proof that the public’s desire to travel remains as strong as ever and we are pleased to be able to take advantage of this demand their number will double as of this spring – with four being offered from Brno Airport,” remarked Jiří Filip member of the board at BRNO AIRPORT a.s.  The most frequented destinations last year included the ever-popular London 98,000 passengers used the regular route to Stansted between January and December followed by the Egyptian resorts of MarsaAlam and Hurghada More than 21,000 passengers flew on the second regular route to the Italian city of Bergamo between March and October Most flyers visited the airport in July and August – more than 333,000 in total The total number of aircraft movements at Brno reached 26,000 Brno Airport continued to run throughout the winter when the London route was joined by two exotic destinations – Phuket Thailand and the new addition of Mauritius Phuket was a new destination in the last winter season and represented the first long-haul commercial passenger flight operated by Brno Airport both destinations are served by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft Two more European cities from the end of March The upcoming season will also bring with it two new regular routes to the European cities of Malaga and Rome The former will be operated by Ryanair and will fly on Mondays and Thursdays “We believe the two new connections to these extremely tourist-friendly European cities to be a great success Rome’s hub airport also offers great opportunities for further travel across Europe and beyond Brno and wider Moravia will thus become more accessible to visitors from around the world,” added Filip.  There was also plenty of activity in the cargo sector last year FedEx and DHL operated daily connections to their central transshipment points in Paris and Leipzig out of Brno Further connections to their route network are provided by the RFS (Road Feeder Service) systems of EVA Air The total volume of cargo processed in 2024 was 11,800tons Dozens of millions of Czech crowns’ worth of investment 78 million CZK was invested in Brno Airport in 2024 to expand the aircraft handling area and passenger car park This year’s investment is estimated to reach higher dozens of millions of Czech crowns “We are planning to continue expanding the customer car park Further investment will go into the development of the check-in areas and repairs to the operating areas we are continuously modernising the aircraft dispatch equipment and container loading systems for cargo transport,” detailed Filip adding that the airport is also pursuing plans for new business aviation facilities SquashSite – all about Squash It was a home double in Brno as both Czech National Champions collected the PSA $3k Challenger titles Karolina Sramkva beat the top two seeds Anna Serme and Micheala Cepova to take the women’s title while Jakub Solnicky won a five game final against Robert Downer for the men’s title Kometa Brno are one of the most storied and successful ice hockey clubs in Czechia and are based in the country's second biggest city The club were originally founded in 1953 under the name Rudá hvězda Brno (Red Star Brno) Kometa have built a strong legacy both domestically and internationally The club has won a total of 14 national league championships with 11 titles earned during the Czechoslovak era making it the dominant force in Czechoslovak hockey during the 1950s and 60s Kometa made a triumphant return to form in the 2010s capturing back-to-back Czech Extraliga championships in the 2016/17 and 2017/18 seasons and added their most recent league title in 2024/25 the team has also claimed three European Cup titles Kometa play their home games at the Winning Group Arena formerly known as DRFG Arena and Kajot Arena The venue opened in 1982 and has a capacity of around 7,700 spectators it has undergone several renovations to improve facilities for both players and fans and it remains one of the iconic hockey venues in the country The club enjoys a passionate and loyal fanbase and the team are known for their strong community presence and deep ties to the city of Brno which takes great pride in the club’s long-standing traditions and achievements Kometa Brno have played in two past Champions Hockey League seasons and made the Quarter-Finals on both occasions.  Entrepreneur® and its related marks are registered trademarks of Entrepreneur Media LLC Globally-minded entrepreneurs who are seeking to start up or expand a business in Europe often begin their search for the perfect locale in powerhouse tech hubs like Berlin or up-and-coming innovation ecosystems like Lisbon or Valencia overlook cities in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) that can offer entrepreneurs a litany of value as well as a growing culture of innovation and entrepreneurship Data intelligence firm Dealroom reported that the CEE's total startup ecosystem value more than doubled in the past five years to reach €213 billion in 2023 including a lack of local investors compared to Western Europe and political instability in some countries which has forced founders to relocate abroad CEE offers a number of attractive opportunities for worldly founders While much of the startup ecosystem buzz in the country is centered in the capital intrepid entrepreneurs should also consider Czechia's second-largest city as an attractive destination for a company I spent four days exploring the city and spoke with some of the people who are helping to shape the startup ecosystem there Here are some takeaways for entrepreneurs looking to visit Brno Brno is home to some very successful startups is based in the city and has more than 1,000 employees Other notable startups include network security provider Flowmon (recently acquired by Kemp Technologies) and Europe's largest online beauty retailer The city is also home to 64,000 students helping to ensure a steady flow of talent for the local startup scene from institutions like Masaryk University, which counts thousands of students enrolled in STEM and business programmes, and the Brno University of Technology Entrepreneurs and tech talent in the city tend to coalesce at networking events hosted by the South Moravian Innovation Centre (JIC) a regional government-backed enterprise tasked with fomenting business innovation in the region JIC actively supports startups through mentoring and partnerships with major industry players told me that JIC is a breeding ground for businesses "You can join meetups with startups or founders and get inspiration from successful companies," he said The city was also recognized by the European Committee of Regions last year for its efforts to boost innovation and entrepreneurship, including an EU-funded Cyber-Security Excellence Hub as well as hosting the Velvet Innovation Conference are a great place to run into local movers and shakers in Brno's entrepreneurial community Impact Hub which operates a network of incubators and co-working spaces around the world and hosts events for the local startup community One of Brno's key draws for entrepreneurs and technology enthusiasts is its affordability and safety relative to other European cities From its reasonably priced short- and long-term accommodation, affordable cuisine, and its famously inexpensive (but refreshingly delicious) Czech beer, the cost of living in Brno is 20% lower than in Prague, and 36% lower than Berlin, according to rental price database Numbeo What's more, the Czech Republic is among the 15 safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index, and The Campus Advisor ranked Brno the 4th best student city in the world for 2023 Brno's reputation as an undiscovered gem may soon change shows that Brno has seen significant growth from expats from countries like Hungary The platform is a good first step for foreign entrepreneurs looking for short and long-term rental opportunities in the city and caters to digital nomads by posting information online The Brno Expat Centre is another valuable resource for digital nomads and newcomers looking to settle in the city This nonprofit organization offers tailored support on everything from housing and legal matters to community integration making it an essential first stop for entrepreneurs and remote workers relocating to Brno finding the perfect location to build a company shouldn't rest solely on the economic advantages Founders should love the place where they live Brno's location in the heart of Europe makes it a prime jumping-off point for international travel to some of Europe's most beautiful cities like Vienna But there is also beauty to be discovered right in the city's own backyard For someone coming from a noisy city like Barcelona walking through the calm streets of Brno was a pleasure The architecture of the city combines Gothic you can find charming cafés (some of the best I've tried) and even discover hidden gardens Walking through the city, Brno locals were very inviting and helpful. While the official language is Czech, people in Brno tend to speak more English than those in Prague Exploring Špilberk Castle at sunset is a must, especially during the summer when you can see stunning views over the city rooftops. Another great plan is to visit the Vegetable Market you can find seasonal fruits and vegetables and chat with the locals to learn more about their culture if you're ever having a particularly rough day in your business during a siege by the Swedes in the Thirty Years' War the Swedes said they'd abandon their attack if they didn't conquer the city by noon the next day some clever Brunnians set all the clocks in the city forward to 11 a.m to throw off their attackers -- and ever since 11:00 has held special significance in Brno Compared to other cities I have lived in in Europe, Brno feels like it has a broad acceptance of work-life balance embedded in its entrepreneurial culture. For instance, Phonexia, a startup in the city that develops speech technology, orders its employees to take every Friday off. For entrepreneurs with wanderlust, Brno's inclusive innovation ecosystem, its work-life balance and strong talent pool, as well as its relative safety, make it a European city that should be on any founder's list to consider. We'll be in your inbox every morning Monday-Saturday with all the day’s top business news, inspiring stories, best advice and exclusive reporting from Entrepreneur. BRNO (Czechia) - The path to the trophy for the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2025 has been determined as the groups for the sixteenth edition of the event were confirmed in Tuesday's draw The 16 teams were divided into four groups of four teams each All 16 teams participating in the event will advance to the competition's Final Phase with a single-elimination format in place from the Round of 16 onwards The teams from Group A will face teams from Group B based on standings within these groups (1st vs 4th - 2nd vs 3rd) and teams from Group C will face teams from Group D Three-time defending champions USA will be looking to win an 11th title in this upcoming edition of the competition Four other national teams have previously won the U19 Women's Basketball World Cup among those being host nation Czechia who won the competition back in 2001 also hosted in Brno The draw was performed by former Czechia national team stars Czech Basketball Federation President Miroslav Jansta and FIBA Central Board and Executive Committee member Carmen Tocala attended the event The 2025 edition of the tournament will take place from July 12 - 20 in Brno Kometa Brno and Dynamo Pardubice will go head to head in the deciding match of this year’s Extraliga championship title playoffs The two teams are locked at 3:3 going into the final match Brno fans can watch the game on the big screen in Zelny Trh Kometa won the first match in Pardubice on 17 April but the home team won the match the following day to draw level The next two matches in Brno saw more exciting scorelines with Pardubice beating the home team by 1:4 on Monday only for Kometa to win by 7:4 the next day Brno won Friday’s game in Pardubice by 2:4 Tonight’s match is therefore the decider of the best-of-seven final Working with local architecture studio dílna London and central Europe-based Chybik + Kristof has created a new square in the Czech city designed to host markets and festivals has been reworked as a new focal point for the community and local business Working together with landscape architect Zdenek Sendler the team has created a hub that has already delivered an economic boost to the surrounding area increasing property values and driving an estimated 20 per cent rise in commercial activity the square remains a key transport interchange for the city The distinctive circular shape is intended to give the public space a clear identity and reference point The modular urban furniture it contains further emphasises the circular theme while providing flexible seating Strategically placed trees integrate greenery into the design and help create a welcoming atmosphere the pioneering geneticist after whom the square is named while the red stone paving used across the square reflects the historic context of the nearby Basilica and Augustinian Monastery the practice which was set up in 2010 in Prague Tags The project prioritised reuse and upcycling using low-carbon and natural materials including… Harp & Harp has completed a seven-home scheme in Croydon Pollard Thomas Edwards has created a landmark… The interiors within Acland Burghley School in Tufnell Park use lightweight Although Brno is a wonderful place to be in summer the weather can always surprise us with cold or rain So if you have planned a day outdoors but the weather decides not to go your way here are five activities you can enjoy during rainy days Nestled in the peaceful park surroundings of Kravi Hora the Brno Observatory and Planetarium offers a unique mix of science and storytelling From interactive shows to stargazing sessions The building’s modern design and the immersive spaces of the planetarium and exploratorium make it a perfect escape when the skies turn grey the Moravian Gallery in Brno offers a deep dive into Czech and European art across centuries and styles its exhibitions are as diverse as they are engaging and even collections adapted for the visually impaired Science Centre is a hands-on science park where learning meets fun With over 170 interactive exhibits across four themed zones – Planet and Microworld – it’s designed for curious visitors of all ages Younger children have their own dedicated play area while older ones (and adults too) can enjoy live science shows making it an energetic and playful indoor escape the Cellar under the New Town Hall invites you to explore Brno’s history in a truly original way This underground space blends old legends with virtual reality bringing tales like the “Fiery Horse and Dragon” to life but non-Czech speakers can get a printed guide in English to follow along It’s not your typical museum visit: expect folklore Located in the historic area of Zábrdovice to the east of the city centre the Museum of Romani Culture is one of very few such museums in Europe offering a detailed journey through Romani history and culture With over 30,000 objects in the museum’s collection it tells the story of the Romani people from their ancient origins in India to their experiences in Europe The museum is a dynamic space for cultural exchange A visit here offers a unique perspective on European history The tension is building in the final play-offs of the 2024-25 Czech Extraliga ice hockey championship are locked together at two wins each going into the final three matches of the best-of-seven head-to-head The two teams will meet again tonight in Pardubice with the game to be screened again in Zelny Trh from 6pm The winner has a shot at the title on Sunday (5pm while the ultimate decider (if necessary) will take place on Tuesday (6pm Brno has been selected to host the 2027 Climbing World Championships the Czech Mountaineering Association announced yesterday following a decision by the Congress of the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) in Cyprus The championships will be held at the new Arena Brno Competitors will also fight for participation at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles The World Championships will be the biggest climbing event ever held in the Czech Republic France and Indonesia also originally bid to host the championship The last two countries withdrew their bids and the IFSC Congress eventually favoured the Czech bid This was in part thanks to the Climbing World Cup event which has been held regularly in Prague since 2023 and is scheduled for this June “We got the trust mainly because of the high quality of this event,” Czech Mountaineering Association head Jan Bloudek said in a press release who lives in Brno and was the main face of the promotional video also contributed significantly to the success of the candidacy The Climbing World Championships will take place from 13-27 August 2027 your new go-to podcast to spice up your weekday mornings with relevant news and behind-the-scenes from Brussels and beyond From the economy to the climate and the EU's role in world affairs this talk show sheds light on European affairs and the issues that impact on our daily lives as Europeans Tune in to understand the ins and outs of European politics Dare to imagine the future with business and tech visionaries Deep dive conversations with business leaders Euronews Tech Talks goes beyond discussions to explore the impact of new technologies on our lives the podcast provides valuable insights into the intersection of technology and society Europe's water is under increasing pressure floods are taking their toll on our drinking water Join us on a journey around Europe to see why protecting ecosystems matters and to discover some of the best water solutions an animated explainer series and live debate - find out why Water Matters We give you the latest climate facts from the world’s leading source analyse the trends and explain how our planet is changing We meet the experts on the front line of climate change who explore new strategies to mitigate and adapt marked by the chiming astronomical clock which remains an enigma even to the locals erect black granite structure releases a marble to one of three catch points - usually guarded by the hands of children Every wonky piece of art and unusual sculpture here has a legacy or folk story that speaks of Brno citizens' courage and lighthearted nature Like many, I hadn’t heard of Czechia’s southern second city before. I associated the country with the busy capital and popular stag-do destination, Prague university student Ilona Szarazova tells me everybody knows everybody and you’re never stressed.” I soon realise that off-target expectations and unexpected quirks are part of the fun in this undiscovered gem “We’ve got a good sense of humour,” local guide Sára Anna Hudcovicová says. “This is our version of the mediaeval mechanical clock in Prague I think it’s coincidental that many of our sculptures look like a this unusual structure symbolises Brno’s bravery in its defence against the Swedish siege in 1645 - which is why it was designed to look like a bullet According to the myth Swedish soldiers planned to give up attempts of invasion one day at 12pm they adjusted the city clocks to ring an hour early Nothing’s quite as it seems here. I’m in one of Europe’s leading tech innovation hubs yet I’m wooed by the late-gothic period architecture and neo-Renaissance elegance of Vegetable Market square Around the stalls selling autumnal dried bouquets and early Oktoberfest pints While 13 universities are in the surrounding metropolitan area “Beneath our feet is a labyrinth of passages and cellars,” Sára says “You can go down there to see where food sold at the market was stored in the 13th century.” Among the abundant deck chair socialising spots parks filled with benches and calming water features Holding the remains of 50,000 people is the second largest catacombs in Europe A 20-minute walk away is Žlutý Kopec Reservoirs, four underground water tanks that were shut down in 1997 - and this year newly opened to tourists and for music events there’s something futuristic about the illusion of infinite space created by diagonal rows of pillars through each dimly lit chamber Mendel’s Greenhouse, where the theory of genetics sprung from, a 1770 cathedral and the 13th-century UNESCO-listed Tugendhat Villa But the country’s borders only opened to tourists in 1989 Prague had a headstart after the communist revolution But Brno built its appeal through careful attention to detail in the city experience The streets are spotless, everyone I meet speaks excellent English and it’s easy to get around - the trams meet at the train station on the hour throughout the day I’m always only a few steps away from a trendy cafe or buzzy bar serving the best pilsner I’ve ever tasted and there are plenty of top-quality restaurants serving global cuisines Over the years the tech scene helped pave the way for tourism by bringing businesses and revenue into Brno “Thanks to initiatives like JIC, more technology-oriented expats choose Brno,” says Ondřej Dufek, co-founder of Flatio, an accommodation rental platform for digital nomads Set up two decades ago, JIC (the South Moravian Innovation Centre) was one of the first technological incubators in the eastern part of the European Union Since launching in Brno in 2016, Flatio has seen increasing yearly bookings Preliminary findings of the company’s 2024 Digital Nomad Report ranks Brno 10 out of the 28 best cities for remote workers There are 15 co-working spaces dotted across the city and long-term lets are available for up to a year with Flatio Positioned 123 in Numbeo’s recent European cost of living index, it’s easy to keep things cheap while living here A 30-minute drive south and I’m in Pálava Nature Reserve. From the ruined 1200 fortress on a hilltop surrounded by rustic villages I admire miles of fruitful vineyards beside Věstonice Reservoir While it feels a world away from tourist hotspots Even though Brno is flying under the radar for now it won’t stay a secret for long - but that’s why it’s the perfect time to discover this city full of surprises In March, customs officers uncovered an organised criminal group operating illegal gambling establishments in Brno, involving the search of 17 properties and 12 arrests, as announced on the customs agency website today and a motorcycle and car worth CZK 500,000 organised and mediated gambling on slot machines without a permit at several locations in Brno from at least December 2022 to March 2025 “The main actors took care of technical and contractual matters and decided on the admission of new members to the group,” the customs agency reported “The middle links provided operational matters in the gambling rooms and the lowest link were the attendants there They filtered the players on entry.” The officers targeted the group as early as 2023 the suspects resumed operation in some of the establishments and expanded the gambling network and their group the perpetrators face up to 12 years in prison Get quick access to your favorite articles Manage alerts on breaking news and favorite drivers Make your voice heard with article commenting Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images The Czech Republic will return to the MotoGP calendar for the first time since 2020 as part of a five-year deal with the Brno Circuit the much-loved Brno track will make a long-awaited comeback in 2025 and stay on the calendar until at least 2029 The exact date for its return in 2025 is yet to be announced but it previously occupied a slot in early August that was later taken over by Silverstone for the British Grand Prix With the UK round being moved to 23-25 May next year although that doesn’t necessarily mean the returning Czech event will be slotted in its place "We’re delighted to be able to announce our return to Brno,” Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said with a fantastic layout that has staged some really memorable moments in its long history in MotoGP.  “We’re really excited to return and stage more with the Tissot Sprint every weekend and even more for fans to enjoy on site to get closer to their heroes than ever We’ve seen the hillsides here packed with passion for our sport so many times – when it was the best-attended Grand Prix of the year on a number of occasions – and we’re very happy to bring MotoGP back to our fans in Czechia." Brno had been an annual fixture on the premier class calendar between 1987 and the first COVID-affected year in 2020 Prior to its the construction of the present-day Brno circuit grand prix racing used to take place on a street track on the outskirts of the city that at one point measured 29km in length Prime Minister of the Czech Republic: "Motorcycle racing has a tradition at the Brno Masaryk Circuit dating back to the 1950s MotoGP is a prestigious global event that brings tens of thousands of visitors to the Czech Republic “I am very pleased that we have managed to continue this tradition and that the MotoGP race will return to Brno after five years." MotoGP is yet to announce the full calendar for the 2025 season but the campaign will kick off at Buriram in Thailand on 2 March the traditional venue for the opening round will host its annual MotoGP race at an unspecified date later in the year From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport In order to keep delivering our expert journalism we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker Kometa Brno won the decisive game of the best-of-seven final playoff series against Dynamo Pardubice 3-0 last night becoming champions of the Czech ice hockey league season again after seven years Ocelari Trinec won the league in the previous six seasons The top goalmaker in the play-offs was Pardubice forward Roman Cervenka with 19 points from five goals and 14 assists Finnish player Arttu Ilomaki from Kometa Brno scored the most goals (8) in the playoffs.  The best scorer of the regular season was Latvian forward Eduards Tralmaks of Rytiri Kladno with 51 points in 48 games for 23 goals and 28 assists followed by Ondrej Beranek from Karlovy Vary for 30 goals (the highest number in the regular season) and 20 assists Czech top ice hockey league final standings in 2024/25 season: The construction season will begin early this year utilities and tramlines with the arrival of spring weather Important public works projects that will affect transport and life in the city are coordinated by the municipality to allow operators to make repairs at the same time important repairs and reconstructions of roads sewers and other networks await us this year,” said Markéta Vaňková the city would not be able to function; they are often long-term planned investments that cannot bear the delay we strive to be as coordinated in the work as possible We are trying to minimize the negative impacts on local residents public transport passengers and everyone else.”  The city’s aim is to catch up with the delays in reconstructing and building utilities that have not received sufficient investment in past decades water supplies or sewers were laid more than a century ago These old networks are being replaced with new ones to ensure their trouble-free operation and prevent failures “If reconstruction is taking place somewhere we also contact other network operators to see if they need to repair or replenish anything in that location,” said Brno city councillor for Transport we bring together several projects within one construction to make the impact on the surroundings as small as possible when the site is burdened with a number of works we try to move some projects so that they do not accumulate and rather follow each other logically.”  Kratochvíl added that a significant number of the planned reconstruction projects are measures aimed at reducing noise and hazards for residents and road users “We also always evaluate the possibilities of introducing new cycling measures,” he said “This year’s tram closures are headed for the period after the end of the summer semester to eliminate further restrictions as much as possible and shorten them in time passengers and other road users for patience and understanding.” Most of the works should be completed by the end of the holidays and in September the repairs of the sidewalks will be completed As part of the construction of the large city ring road due to coordination with other plans in the area and the need to follow up on the construction of new entrances from Křížkovského In the section of the street from Lipová to Veletržní a water supply system that is more than 100 years old will be repaired starting in June especially for pedestrians and those wishing to park meaning the entire route between Mendlovo náměstí and the exhibition centre will be new.  The Czech Roads and Highways Directorate (ŘSD) will carry out technical works in the Pisárky Tunnel from 21 July to 20 September 2025 The repairs are necessary to ensure safe operation in these busy transport facilities ŘSD will open the six-lane layout of the D1 motorway in Brno between kilometers 194 and 196 ŘSD plans to start work in the second half of the year The increase in capacity of the motorway will bring significantly smoother and safer traffic to drivers road surface repairs are planned on selected sections of the D1 motorway at km 198–211 including the Brněnská Ivanovice rest area The work should not take longer than 35 days The Roads and Motorways Directorate will specify the exact date later.  With the completion of work on Tomkovo namesti and Rokytova repairs will be carried out during the spring months on several adjacent streets which were burdened by construction machinery and diverted traffic during the construction of this section of the ring road.  gas pipeline and other networks should begin in the autumn Detour routes for locals and residents of surrounding municipalities will lead through Líšeň Work on flood control measures in Poříčí should be partially completed by the end of April will prepare to remove the siding and repair the road surfaces It should be finished by the end of the year.  the city has been working with Nova Zbrojovka to widen Šámalova in the section between Zábrdovická and Lazaretní one of the main access roads to the new district from the Military Hospital to the Bubeníčkova railway bridge Trams will be completely suspended here from 18 May causing less disruption to local residents The roadway under the railway bridge on Šámalova will also be widened The railway administration will repair the bridge itself; the work will also require closure to all traffic from 18 May Tram traffic should be restored at the end of August The reconstruction will last until June 2027.  The long-planned extension of Markéty Kuncové Street will begin in April Another link will be built for the newly emerging district in the former Zbrojovka area The street will be closed from the intersection with Skopalíková.  Work is continuing on the reconstruction of Údolní The contractor and the city are striving to complete the work by the end of 2025 depending on the current conditions at the construction site The street will be greener thanks to newly planted trees and a shared zone will be added near Obilní trh.  Work by railway workers on this bridge will require the complete closure of traffic under the viaduct the city will also repair the sewerage system here Partial work can also be expected at the Křenová × Koliště intersection and should be finished by the end of the summer holidays in 2025 The tram line will be repaired in the Bohunická – Moravanské lány – Smyčka Modřice section The project includes a complete modernization of the tram superstructure and modification of the platforms to be accessible to all These modifications will allow for an increase in vehicle speed in the given section and thus shorten journey times ŘSD is preparing a local reconstruction of the surfaces on this road.  Work on the construction of the Dornych multifunctional complex will limit traffic on Úzká and Uhelná In connection with the completion of the repair of the Otakar Ševčík bridges (in June 2025) ŘSD will also repair the bypass routes of Ostravská and Olomoucká streets in the Ostravská–Tržní section.  The second half of the road between Hněvkovského and Černovický nábřeží will be under repair from today This involves the reconstruction of road surfaces Traffic will flow in 1+1 mode along the second half of the road.  The Brno District Heating Plant is intensively preparing for the spring months and the start of construction of a hot water feeder on Jihlavská The repair of road surfaces is also planned on this street in two sections: Jemelkova–Pražská and Heršpická–Vídeňská.  Work on expanding the roundabout should be completed in spring 2025 a public transport stop and an island.  Work on improving telematics in the city will continue throughout the year Traffic lights will be modernized at several intersections (Olomoucká–Cornovova Specific dates for individual works will be announced after the contractor has been selected and the construction site has been handed over.  For the most up-to-date information on roadworks and closures Traffic restrictions can be monitored in the Brno Roads application https://www.doprava-brno.cz/, on the website www.kopemezabrno.cz, or on the portal https://dopravniinfo.gov.cz/ The City of Brno is taking concrete steps to promote equal access to education and improve the school environment for girls. A municipal pilot project will see menstrual supplies provided in the toilets at schools around the city with the aim of increasing the comfort of female students contributing to the destigmatisation of menstruation 55 elementary schools have already signed up for the scheme which will start in the school year 2025/2026 will provide free menstrual pads at 55 primary schools in Brno testing the scheme’s feasibility for coming years and other schools Hygiene supplies will be available in girls’ toilets and schools will ensure they are regularly refilled The primary objective is to ensure that menstruation should not be associated with stress The secondary objective of the project is to open space for communication on the topic It will include seminars for educators that will offer practical tips and support in how to teach students sensitively and comprehensibly about menstruation and related topics and create an environment in classrooms where girls and boys can learn about menstruation with respect and understanding There will also be lecturing events directly with pupils at several schools Seminars for teachers and children will be led by external lecturers from the organizations Sola helps Currently, the City of Brno is announcing a tender for suppliers of menstrual pads, which will be distributed to participating schools during the pilot year. The selection procedure will run until mid-May 2025. The estimated cost is up to CZK 1 million including VAT, where the decisive criterion is the price for one item. Details of the selection procedure are available here.  55 primary schools in Brno have expressed interest in participating in the project which together cover 8,000 girls from the 5th to 9th grade These schools will receive an initial supply of menstrual supplies adapted to the number of female pupils and ensure their availability in the premises of girls’ toilets from year 5 above Further replenishment of supplies is expected approximately twice during the school year we hoped that dozens of schools would be involved – but 55 schools participating in the pilot phase is beyond our expectations,” said Petr Bořecký “It clearly shows that the topic of menstruation is no longer taboo even in the environment of primary education and that school managers are interested in actively creating a safer and more welcoming environment for girls.”  The 50,000m² factory will produce gas-insulated lines and components for gas-insulated switchgear European industrial developer CTP has announced a €57m ($59.7m) investment in a new project for Hitachi Energy at CTPark Brno in the Czech Republic The project focuses on constructing a high-voltage products factory with an expected yield on cost exceeding 10% crucial for electricity transmission and distribution 200 jobs will be created through the initiative The site will feature advanced production technologies a robotised powder coating facility and a service centre all tailored to Hitachi Energy’s needs Hitachi Energy Czech Republic and Slovakia country managing director Pavel Kovář stated: “Our factory in Brno is one example of our commitment to rapidly expand our global capacity to meet the accelerating demand generated by the transition to clean energy “This project in CTPark Brno will provide us with an ideal background for the production of our eco-efficient EconiQ portfolio which eliminates the use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) Our investment of over Kč1.1bn will increase production capacity and address the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.” Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis The project includes an underground car park directly beneath the hall with heat pumps and solar panels enhancing energy efficiency CTP aims to achieve BREEAM [Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology] Outstanding certification reflecting its commitment to high environmental standards CTP regional construction director Michal Dospěl stated: “We are very pleased to be able to deliver this ambitious project for our long-standing partner Hitachi Energy high-tech facility being built at CTPark Brno is an example of our commitment to sustainability and innovation “We believe that the project will contribute to the further development of our park and will provide our clients and employees not only with a state-of-the-art working environment but also support for their growth and development.” Following the factory’s construction CTP plans to develop an adjacent campus to foster community collaboration and provide a pleasant environment for employees and visitors Hitachi Energy has been collaborating with CTP since 2014 continuously expanding its presence at CTPark Brno Give your business an edge with our leading industry insights View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network and castles—it’s also a dynamic city where staying active is easy and enjoyable Here are some tips to help you find your next favourite sport or hobby in the city and one of the best spots to try it is at Hangar Climbing in Brno-South This large bouldering gym offers rope-free climbing walls suitable for both beginners and more experienced climbers It’s a great activity that can be enjoyed year-round Brno has several public swimming pools that are open throughout the year One popular option is the swimming pool near Lužánky Park which includes a 50-meter pool for swimming and a warm relaxation pool Another notable public swimming facility in Brno is the indoor swimming hall at Kraví hora situated near the city centre.This facility features a 25-metre pool with six lanes suitable for both recreational and training purposes as well as a children’s pool equipped with massage jets and a bubble bath Visitors can also enjoy a whirlpool and a steam sauna The centre’s design incorporates large glass walls offering panoramic views of the city skyline With its combination of swimming and wellness options Kraví hora is a year-round destination for both relaxation and exercise.​ The Centre of Sports Activities (CESA) at Brno University of Technology offers a variety of sports facilities for public rental These facilities are equipped with certified surfaces provide gymnasiums suitable for volleyball Reservations can be made online up to 14 days in advance CESA’s facilities operate year-round accommodating both recreational and performance-level sports activities Brno is also a fantastic place to enjoy outdoor sports for free One great option is heading to the Brno Dam where you can play volleyball on well-maintained courts in a beautiful natural environment and there’s plenty of space to accommodate a large group of friends for a fun and active afternoon a traditional French sport where players try to throw metal balls as close as possible to a small wooden target ball It’s the perfect mix of competition and leisure especially enjoyable during a picnic or a chill evening with friends.  The annual Brno Easter Market returns to Náměstí Svobody from 11 to 20 April transforming the square into a vibrant marketplace with 40 stalls filled with Easter-themed goods a non-profit organisation of the Brno-Střed district Visitors can browse a range of handmade Easter decorations and craft products while enjoying a lively cultural programme the market stage will host performances by folklore ensembles and cimbalom bands Spontán Folk Music and Dúbravěnka Children’s Ethnographic Ensemble an Easter crafts workshop will offer visitors the chance to try their hand at traditional activities these workshops provide hands-on experience in Easter crafts for families and children There will also be a stand dedicated to the voluntary sector giving organisations the opportunity to showcase their work and interact with visitors Admission to the Brno Easter Market is free every day until 7pm allowing locals and tourists to experience seasonal festivities in the heart of the city SAKO Brno has recently completed a major overhaul of its incineration plant as part of efforts to reduce emissions and increase energy self-sufficiency which processes around a quarter of a million tonnes of waste a year generates around one million gigajoules of heat and 60,000 MWh of electricity “The operation of the boilers has been optimised increasing the efficiency of the combustion process and reducing energy losses,” said Karel Jelínek The municipal company has improved the control and distribution of combustion air to achieve optimum combustion conditions and reduce the level of high-temperature corrosion typical of waste-to-energy plants a professional audit of the entire flue gas cleaning complex has resulted in a reduction in temperature losses thereby increasing the efficiency of pollutant removal “We now use up to 15% less lime products while complying with stricter emission limits from 2024 The annual savings of these raw materials will amount to approximately CZK 2.5 million,” said Pavel Urubek chair of the board of directors of SAKO Brno The company has also comprehensively renovated the chemical water treatment plant and the condensate block treatment plant thereby adapting the operation of the Brno waste-to-energy plant to the end of the transition of the heat transfer medium from steam to hot water the compressors will be replaced by modern compressors with frequency converters which will significantly increase the ability and smoothness of operation control and reduce electricity consumption JazzFest Brno welcomed one of the most extraordinary guitarists of our time The Sicilian virtuoso and his exceptional trio featuring Riccardo Oliva on bass and Gianluca Pellerito on drums gave an unforgettable performance as a penultimate stop on their European tour Matteo Mancuso has gained widespread recognition for his revolutionary guitar technique Unlike most electric guitarists who rely on a pick Mancuso applies classical fingerstyle techniques to his electric playing This unique approach allows him to achieve an unparalleled level of fluidity setting him apart as a true innovator in the world of modern guitar in a form of virtuosity that can only be his The evening’s setlist was a dynamic blend of jazz seamlessly interweaving original compositions and masterfully executed covers Highlights included two iconic tunes – ‘Fred’ by Allan Holdsworth and ‘The Chicken’ by Jaco Pastorius – both of which showcased the trio’s technical brilliance and deep musical synergy added a personal and emotional depth to the performance a touching tribute to the trio’s hometown of Palermo gave the concert its most introspective moments not an actual samba as the artist specified but certainly a piece brimming with rhythm and intricate melodic interplay that highlighted the trio’s seamless chemistry with each musician bringing their own mastery to the stage this concert was a testament to the trio’s unique cohesion and passion and the outcome of their dedication and constant research into experimental music Commercial message: There are many smart watches on the market Google has its Pixel Watch and we could go on like this but its watches are chosen by professional athletes like in the case of tennis player Lucie Šafářová.  Garmin Brno is an official dealer of Garmin products In the Olympia department store you will find not only a complete portfolio the company's smartwatches as well as its other products such as cycle computers It is also the only Garmin brand store in Moravia which proudly established cooperation with Czech tennis player Lucie Šafářová.  Lucie Šafářová won five doubles titles at the Grand Slam with American Mattek-Sands and reached the singles final at the 2015 French Open She won bronze in the doubles competition at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro alongside Strýcová she became the world number one in doubles for six weeks the fourth Czech and the thirty-fifth since the introduction of the classification in 1984 She triumphed in the Fed Cup five times with the Czech team She ended her career with the doubles at the 2019 French Open in May She had previously tried many smart watches and fitness bands, but they did not record her heart rate while playing tennis, and showed completely unrealistic values ​​during the game, probably due to her sudden hand movements. But then she had Garmin Brno opportunity to carefully try on and get to know the watch Fenix 8 What better recommendation than to ask for it from a professional athlete?  The Fenix ​​series is one of Garmin's most popular and the 8th generation models are among the newest having been introduced by the company last August they are also available in several case sizes and materials with the 43mm being the ideal size for women The body is lightweight polymer and reinforced with carbon fibers with the frame and bottom cover made of steel or titanium and the glass easily made of sapphire Garmin Club Brno offers you to take advantage of great benefits such as discounts on purchases expert advice and access to other special offers register and start enjoying all the benefits that membership offers you You can buy a Garmin watch here Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Brno will come alive with blue-and-white apparel and enthusiastic hockey fans over the next two weeks as HC Kometa Brno beat AC Sparta Praha to advance to the championship series against HC Dynamo Pardubice The best-of-seven title series begins on Thursday in Pardubice Brno will host games next Monday (21 April) and Tuesday (22 April) Kometa was a big underdog in the semifinal series and in the final game Hynek Zohorna put Brno on the board with a goal midway through the first period Jakub Flek and Adam Zbořil both scored in the second period we managed to jump to a three-goal lead and then we bet everything on defence and on the excellent performance of Michal Postava in goal,” said head coach Kamil Pokorný Kometa has won 13 national titles since the championship began in 1953 the club won back-to-back titles in 2016–17 and in 2017–18 The championship series will be played in a best-of-seven format starting in Pardubice on Thursday (home team listed first):