Updated at 2024-04-19
On February 2nd every year, lit candle holders can be seen on the windowsills of churches in the Czech Republic for two allegorical reasons: Firstly, in Czech mythology, this day marks the awakening of the thunder goddess, Perun, who ushers in springtime with thunderstorms. People believed that lighting candles protected their homes from lightning strikes. Secondly, in the Catholic faith, this day is known as Candlemas, and candles are lit to commemorate the Virgin Mary and to offer the "Light of the World" to God.
Alliance Date: March 27, 2023
Language: Czech
Area: 230.2 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 380,000 people
Main Industries/Features: Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. It is an important industrial city and the railway hub of the country.