Presidential visits on the map: In the footsteps of T.G. Masaryk

Presidential visits, especially in the 1920s had a state-forming function and helped to create a Czechoslovak identity. These visits often lasted for several days and were carefully prepared by the Office of the President of the Republic in conjunction with the local authorities. President Masaryk was often accompanied on these trips by his son, Jan, or by his daughters Olga and Alice, by representatives of the press, photographers, and a film crew. In hundreds of places, local representatives, associations, and residents ceremonially welcomed him as the “President liberator”. The visits often helped change the face of these municipalities — roads, squares, and buildings were repaired, and the visits were subsequently commemorated with plaques and monuments.

According to the records of the Office of the President, T.G. Masaryk completed more than ninety presidential trips around Czechoslovakia.

We welcome text and image material relating to Masaryk’s presidential visits and their commemorations, especially from smaller municipalities! Do not hesitate to contact us via email at tgm@mua.cas.cz.

List of presidential visits