Complete Travel Guide to Opava, Czech Republic

Opava Opava is a city in the Moravian-Silesian Region of the Czech Republic. It has about 55,000 inhabitants. It lies on the Opava River. Opava is one of the historical centres of Silesia and was a historical capital of Czech Silesia. Positioned at coordinates 49.93866°N, 17.90257°E, Opava occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Opava place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 257.0 meters above sea level, Opava benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Opava creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 55109 residents, Opava maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Opava represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Opava reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Czech Republic, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Moravskoslezský kraj province, Opava contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Czech Republic's regional character. The role of Opava in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Opava discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Czech Republic while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Opava

History Opava in 1900 City hall The first written mention of Opava is from 1195 In 1224, Opava received town privileges After the Duchy of Troppau was established, Opava became its capital In 1427–1431, the duchy was ruled by the Hussites In 1485, it was acquired by Matthias Corvinus and ruled by the Hungarians until 1526.

In 1613, Karl I of Liechtenstein became Duke of Opava and merged the duchy with the Duchy of Krnov After the majority of Silesia was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia during the War of the Austrian Succession after 1740, the remaining Silesian territory still under the control of the Habsburg monarchy became known as Austrian Silesia, with its capital in Opava (1742–1918).

The Congress of Troppau took place here from 24 October to 23 December 1820 According to the Austrian census of 1910, the town had 30,762 inhabitants, 29,587 of whom had permanent residence there The census asked people for their native language, which showed that 27,240 (92%) were German-speaking, 2,039 (6.

9%) were Czech-speaking and 274 (0 9%) were Polish-speaking Jews were not allowed to declare Yiddish, and most of them thus declared German as their native language The main religious group was Roman Catholics with 28,379 (92 Roman influence in Opava established foundational infrastructure and administrative systems that continued to shape the region for centuries.

2%), followed by Protestants with 1,155 (3 7%) and Jews with 1,112 (3 After the defeat of Austria-Hungary in World War I, Opava became part of Czechoslovakia in 1919 In 1938, Opava was ceded to Nazi Germany as a result of the Munich agreement It was administered as a part of Reichsgau Sudetenland.

On 22 April 1945, Opava was liberated by the Soviet Red Army at the cost of enormous war damage In 1945–1946, the German population was expelled under terms of Beneš decrees and the city was resettled with Czechs On 1 January 1946, the municipalities of Jaktař, Kateřinky and Kylešovice were joined to Opava.

After the war, entire new residential areas and industrial plants were built While the Duchy of Opava has ceased to exist, the title of Duke of Troppau continues, with Hans-Adam II, Prince of Liechtenstein being the current incumbent ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_ _**d**_ "Town history".

Retrieved 2022-02-10 Ludwig Patryn (ed): _Die Ergebnisse der Volkszählung vom 31 Dezember 1910 in Schlesien_ , Troppau 1912.

The historical trajectory of Opava demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Opava reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Opava remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Opava is located about 27 km (17 mi) northwest of Ostrava. Most of its territory lies in the Opava Hilly Land within the Silesian Lowlands, but it also extends to the Nízký Jeseník range in the southeast and northwest. The highest point of the municipal territory is Hůrka at 530 m (1,740 ft) above sea level. Opava is situated at the confluence of the Opava and Moravice rivers. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Opava, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The Opava River flows through the city centre. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Opava, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Stříbrné Lake is an artificial lake on the outskirts of the city created by the flooding of the former gypsum quarry. It is used for recreational purposes. #Climate Climate data for Opava, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1961–present Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 14. 8) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 2. 0) Daily mean °C (°F) −0. 0) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −4. 0) Record low °C (°F) −29. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 20. 39) Average snowfall cm (inches) 15. 0) Average relative humidity (%) 80. 2 Mean monthly sunshine hours 56. 1 Source 1: Czech Hydrometeorological Institute Source 2: NOAA 1. "Stříbrné jezero" (in Czech). Retrieved 2022-02-10. "Teplota vzduchu v jednotlivé kalendářní dny" (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. "Průměrná teplota vzduchu v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky" (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11.

The topographic characteristics of Opava result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Opava region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Opava area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Opava has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Opava demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Opava create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Climate data for Opava, 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1961–present Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 14. 8) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 2. 0) Daily mean °C (°F) −0. 0) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −4. 0) Record low °C (°F) −29. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 20. Rainfall patterns in Opava determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 39) Average snowfall cm (inches) 15. 0) Average relative humidity (%) 80. 2 Mean monthly sunshine hours 56. 1 Source 1: Czech Hydrometeorological Institute Source 2: NOAA 1. “Teplota vzduchu v jednotlivé kalendářní dny” (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. “Průměrná teplota vzduchu v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky” (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. “Srážkové úhrny v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky” (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. “Množství nového sněhu v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky” (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. “Průměrná relativní vlhkost vzduchu v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky” (in Czech). Czech Hydrometeorological Institute. Archived from the original on 2024-09-11. Retrieved 2024-09-11. “Délka slunečního svitu v jednotlivé měsíce v jednotlivé roky” (in Czech).

The climatic regime of Opava reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Opava create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Opava determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Opava create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Opava demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Opava include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Historical populationYearPop. The demographic composition of Opava reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 186927,011— 188032,105+18. 9% 189035,698+11. 2% 190042,043+17. 8% 191047,361+12. 9% 195040,663−25. 1% 196148,091+18. 3% 197053,269+10. ±% 198058,778+10. 5% Source: Censuses 1. “Historický lexikon obcí České republiky 1869–2011” (in Czech). Czech Statistical Office. “Population Census 2021: Population by sex”. The demographic composition of Opava reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Public Database. Czech Statistical Office. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Opava reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

Culture Silesian Theatre and Co-Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Opava is an important cultural centre of Opavian Silesia. The Silesian Theatre in Opava was founded in 1805. “Historie Slezského divadla” (in Czech). Silesian Theatre in Opava. Retrieved 2022-02-10.

The cultural landscape of Opava represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Opava reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Opava continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Opava provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Opava demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Opava provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Opava is home especially to the engineering, food, paper and pharmaceutical industries. The largest company is Teva Czech Industries, a manufacturer of medicinal products, whose predecessor was founded in Opava in 1883. It employs about 1,600 people. The largest non-industrial employers are the hospital and the psychiatric hospital. Cite error: The named reference `history` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). "Naše historie a současnost – v České republice" (in Czech). Teva Czech Industries s. Retrieved 2022-02-10.

The economic structure of Opava reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Opava often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Opava serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Opava demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Opava has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Opava focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Opava reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Czech Republic. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Opava.

Regional connectivity from Opava provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Silesian Museum Opava is home to the Silesian University, the only public university in the country not situated in a regional capital. It was established in 1991. 1. Cite error: The named reference history was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

Educational institutions in Opava serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Opava

Successful visits to Opava require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Opava often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Opava include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Opava extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.