Hradec Králové Goes to Pardubice: Discovering the City and Strengthening University Ties
Following the visit of our colleagues from the University of Pardubice (UPCE) to Hradec Králové, it was our turn to head to Pardubice. On Saturday, 10 October, UHK colleagues and international researchers met their Pardubice counterparts for a day of discovery, lively conversations and strengthening the friendly ties between our universities.
Despite the rainy weather, Pardubice had plenty to offer. We explored the city centre and enjoyed a glimpse of its lively atmosphere, including preparations for a parade of historic cars. The highlight of the day was a guided tour of Pardubice Castle, the historic residence of the Pernštejn family. We admired the magnificent halls, their impressive wall paintings, illusionistic painted architecture, biblical scenes and rich heraldic decoration. The story of Fortuna, the goddess of fortune, added another intriguing touch to our exploration of the castle’s history and symbolism. At the end of our visit, after immersing ourselves in the castle’s rich past, we also had the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of contemporary art at the S.K.L.E.M. glass exhibition.
Yet the day was about more than discovering Pardubice’s history and culture. Throughout the programme, conversations developed naturally in small groups, allowing participants to share ideas and get to know one another beyond their usual professional settings. Even the rain could not dampen the friendly atmosphere, as participants happily shared the shelter of their umbrellas and made room for one another.
We rounded off the day with a shared lunch at Tasty Restaurant, enjoying good food and even better company. We returned to Hradec Králové with new memories and a renewed sense of connection between our universities. And, of course, with a promise to keep these partner meetings going - next time, we look forward to welcoming our UPCE colleagues to Hradec Králové!
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