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The spa town of Karlovy Vary is famous for its soothing, medicinal mineral springs. According to historical records, Charles IV discovered the town sometimes referred to as Carlsbad in the 14th century.

A number of social and spa buildings went up when the spa was being developed, including Saxon Hall in 1701 and Czech Hall. The Grandhotel Pupp was later built in their stead.

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The Baroque Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene was constructed according to plans drawn up by the architect Kilian Ignac Diezenhofer.

The late 19th century was a period of extensive construction in Karlovy Vary.

Modern spa facilities were built during this period, and the architecture of the city took on its present form, which bears the hallmarks of historicism and Art Nouveau.

Karlovy Vary is situated about 120 km west of Prague.