In the second half of the 17th century, crystal-clear glass began to be melted on Czech territory, which by its clarity, radiance and hardness was particularly suitable for engraving and grinding. This glass, known as Bohemian crystal, became a domestic specialty and was so in demand in the world that in the first half of the 18th century Bohemia became the most important exporter of glass in the world.

 The history of glass production in Northern Bohemia consists of many fascinating stories that are now reflected in hundreds of living workshops and in the diversity of glass and jewellery production. Visitors to Crystal Valley can watch the handwork of glassmakers in the glassworks in Lindava or Harrachov, in the Jablonec region, visit pearl mashers and admire the centre of the jewellery industry. Production lines in Nový Bor produce tens of thousands of utility glass daily, and nearby are gigantic lighting objects for the world's most famous hotels, palaces and cruise ships. Delicate and fragile Christmas decorations are born in Poniklá on the slopes of Krkonoše (the Giant Mountains), while jewellery and stone workshops are hidden in the Bohemian Paradise. In Zelezny Brod famous glass figures are made. Most of the production from the Liberec region goes to customers far beyond the borders of the Czech Republic and Europe, but we can admire the art of our masters here. 

Handmade glass production has been added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The joint nomination of France, Spain, Germany, Hungary, Finland and the Czech Republic in Botswana was approved by the organisation's international committee.

The traditional production of Christmas ornaments from blown glass beads, preserved by Rautis in Poniklá in the Semily region, has already been included in the UNESCO list. The new entry covers the much wider area of handmade glass production – from sand and the production of glass raw materials to virtually all handicraft techniques, such as grinding, painting, wound beads, the production of tubes, rods for making jewellery, and so on.

Unlike other countries, all glassmaking techniques are still used here. In addition, the Liberec region is unique in the world, as it is home to 160 glass, costume jewellery and jewellery-making companies, tradespeople, studios, museums and schools.

Glass is the identity and essence of our region which truly belongs here, just like  porcelain does to Meissen, whiskey to Scotland or perfumes to Provence. Welcome to Crystal Valley!