Area Sokolov

Sokolov is a town about 20 km southwest of Karlovy Vary, which was founded in the 13th century on the banks of the river Ohře at the confluence with Svatava. The dominant features of the town include a nice chateau, a square with a historic town hall and a Capuchin monastery. Initially, agricultural activity was replaced by mining after the discovery of ore in the vicinity. The character of the city and the whole area was significantly influenced by extensive lignite mining and the chemical industry. After the decline in mining, there was extensive reclamation and lakes and parks were created in the vicinity.