Visit Nizbor, Center Of Czech Crystal

Visit Nizbor, Center Of Czech Crystal Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

Tour one of the most famous glass factories in the Czech Republic, in the town of Nizbor.

All over Prague you will see sparkling glass pieces in the shop windows. Now you can find out the expertise required to create them.

Bohemian glass workers discovered that potash combined with chalk created a clear colourless glass that was more stable than glass from Italy. In the 16th century, the term Bohemian crystal emerged for the first time in history to distinguish its qualities from the glass coming from other places. This glass contained no lead as is commonly suspected. This Czech glass could be cut with a wheel. In addition, resources such as wood for firing the kilns and for burning down to ashes were used to create potash.

A short ride from Prague in the center of Bohemia is the quaint town of Nizbor. It is here that one of the most famous crystal manufacturers in the world is located. Your ride will be narrated and once you arrive into Nizbor, you will take a factory tour which will give you a step-by-step introduction on the making of crystal glass. Begin with the production of the glass itself and then learn more as you visit the cutting and decorating departments.

Czech glassware became as prestigious as jewelery and was sought-after by the wealthy and the aristocracy of the time. Czech crystal chandeliers could be found in the palaces of the French king Louis XV, Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria, and Elizabeth of Russia.

In the second half of the 19th century, Bohemia looked to the export trade and mass produced coloured glass that was exported all over the world. One of the glass items for which the Czech nation is still well known is the production of "druk" beads. Druks are small round glass beads with small threading holes produced in a wide variety of colors and finishes and used mainly as spacers among beaded jewelery makers. Enjoy this chance to learn about this art and ask your questions to the masters.

Of course, the factory shop will be open. Here you will find beautiful pieces at reduced prices, always a benefit at a factory tour.

- Food, beverages, admissions, and gratuities are not included in the price of this tour.
- Admission to the glass factory is not included and costs $13.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 09:00 AM, duration: 6 hours
• 01:00 PM, duration: 6 hours