Many global boundaries are set through the creation of autonomous countries. However, prior to the 20th century, there existed a limited number of communities known as kingdoms. The Bohemian Kingdom is one example.
Establishment of the Bohemian Kingdom
The Bohemian Kingdom formed in the 12th century by the Premyslid Dynasty after accepting Christianity. Formally established in 1189, this medieval monarchy was allowed to be autonomous from the Royal Roman Empire. During this period, the leaders of the Roman Empire and the Luxembourg Dynasty emerged and grew. This led to regional economic and cultural expansion for both realms. During the time, the Kingdom of Bohemia was part of the Great Roman Empire, but later modifications saw its inclusion in the Czech country.
What was the Kingdom of Bohemia?
From settlers to clans to tribes, numerous monarchies occurred because of many factors, including safety, security, agriculture, farming, and changes in the structure of leadership.
“Bohemia” is derived from the term “Boii” from the Celtic tribe, who were the original inhabitants of the Czech Republic region. The Cechove and Czech tribes are the native inhabitants of the Bohemian dominion and spread their cultural influences in the region while accepting Christianity from the neighbors.
Where Is the Kingdom of Bohemia?
The Bohemian dominion is located in the Czech Republic and is bordered by Austria, Bavaria, Saxony, Lusatia, Silesia, and Moravia. Presently, Bohemia is home to 6.5 million residents, with the overall population of the Czech Republic at 10.5 million. One expansive and violent period in the Bohemian Kingdom was the boom of their political and military prowess. Under the leadership of the Iron and Golden King, Ottokar II, Bohemia captured some areas in Hungary and expanded their territory.
However, the death of Ottokar II in 1278 led to the loss of Bohemian influence and the decline of the Imperial Crown. Ottokar’s son, Wenceslas II, age 7, was allowed to succeed his father as the King of Bohemia. This marked the beginning of dynastic rulers of the Bohemian Kingdom. Before the merging of the Kingdom with Slovakia to form the Czech country, Bohemia managed to conquer some territories from Austria and later lost them during one of the attacks.
Cultural Development From the Bohemian Kingdom
The Bohemian territory derived its wealth from silver mining, fertile lands, and cultural exchange. Over the centuries, the natives have taken pride in their unique architectural construction and patterns that have not evolved in the modern era. They are strongly bonded to their identity, which reflects the culture of the region. Viticulture sustains the winemaking city of Moravia, which is located in the southeast area. Tourism abounds as grape plantations terrace the countryside. The Bohemian Kingdom’s religious relics annually attract respectful pilgrims on their spiritual and moral journeys. The remains of the Patron Saint Duke of Bohemia, Wenceslas II, who ruled the region from 921 to 935, is buried in Prague. This has increased the popularity of the St. Vitus Church as a Pilgrimage site.