Czech ambassador impressed by Peshawar’s cultural sites

PESHAWAR: Ambassador of the Czech Republic Ladislav Steinhübel and his spouse visited several cultural landmarks of Peshawar on Thursday. The purpose of the visit was to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Peshawar.

The visit allowed them to explore various historical and cultural landmarks, encompassing significant sites such as Masjid Mahabat Khan, the famed antiques market at Asamai Gate adjacent to Sarafa Bazar, Qissa Khwani Bazar, Gor Gathri Archaeological Complex and Sethi House.

As guests of the Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ladislav Steinhübel and his wife expressed immense delight in immersing themselves in the rich history and heritage of Peshawar.

Their visit to Masjid Mahabat Khan included a warm reception by the son of Maulana Tayyab Qureshi, the caretaker of the mosque. Here, they were presented with a bouquet and savoured the local hospitality with a refreshing cup of green tea, a cherished tradition among the people of Peshawar.

The ambassador and his spouse were enchanted by the antique jewellery displayed at Sarafa Bazaar (Anadar Shehar). A special cultural exchange involved the presentation of traditional caps and rings to both the ambassador and his spouse.

Their excursion continued with a delightful visit to the renowned Taj Soda Water Shop, Peshawar’s oldest soda water shop, where they indulged in the city’s vibrant offerings.During his visit to Gor Gathri , the ambassador explored the historical firefighter wagons and visited the City Museum, along with a captivating tour of the British-era museum.

The guests had the privilege of meeting Wajeeh Sethi, the current custodian of Sethi House, a historical site in Peshawar, fostering cultural exchange and admiration for the region’s architectural marvels.

The culinary journey was an equally delightful experience, as the Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa graciously treated their distinguished guests to “Sobat” (Penda), a traditional dish of the Marwat tribe, showcasing the flavours of the region.

The cultural amalgamation was made possible through the initiatives of Barrister Assad Saifullah Khan, the Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic for KhyberPakhtunkhwa.Established in 2018, the Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic has been instrumental in fostering friendly relations between the Czech Republic and the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Under Barrister Assad Saifullah Khan, the consulate has been pivotal in promoting trade and addressing issues, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s relations with the Czech Republic.