Swanson School of Engineering

During our second day in the Czech Republic, we had the opportunity to visit Podoli Waterworks as well as Charles University, receiving two lectures on both the history and engineering present in the Czech Republic. One thing I found particularly interesting was the process behind water purification done at Podoli as well as the long history behind the water system in the Czech Republic. I never knew that water could be transported using logs with holes bored through the center (they obviously don’t do this today [also see below]). Additionally, I never knew that actual fish were used as bioindicators for the quality and purity of water.

During our tour of this plant, it was clear that the Czechs were proud of their water system. At one period of time, they only provided service water that was not purified, but as the tour guide said, the Czech’s were embarrassed of this fact, and desired more because they wanted their city to be seen as being better than a city lacking a decent water system. You can see the pride in their developed water system today even in our hotels. At our bathroom sink, there are two empty glasses that I assume are for drinking, and in our hotel bedroom, there are two more glasses with a bottle of water that says “Original Prague Water.” I have never seen anything like this at a hotel, and it interests me how one city can be so proud of such a development.

Wrapping this blog up, another aspect I greatly enjoyed today was our meal. I really appreciate Jana setting this up for us. One of the prompts for this blog asks whether or not I have been experiencing any culture shock. In terms of food, no. The food is as delicious as can be and very much reminds me of my Czech grandmother’s cooking. In terms of language and society, I would say yes. I ended up taking a walk on my own through Wenceslas Square, and I saw so many people speaking different languages that I didn’t understand. It made me feel sort of singled out and alienated at times, and I just had a subtle feeling that people could notice that I was an outsider (even if this wasn’t the case it felt that way). The only times I didn’t feel this way, I noticed, was when I heard someone speaking English or French, two of the languages that I understand. Otherwise, my walk was nice and I am sure I will get used to the culture here.