As Mr. Novák, the history teacher, led his eager class through the cobbled streets of Kutná Hora, he began to share tales of the city’s illustrious past. "Kids," he began, adjusting his glasses, "this city was once the second most important in the Czech lands, thanks to its abundant silver mines. In the Middle Ages, this place produced a significant portion of Europe's silver. This wealth is what gave rise to the magnificent structures you see around." He pointed towards the towering edifice of St. Barbara’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. "This cathedral," he explained, "is dedicated to St. Barbara, the patron saint of miners. The attention to detail, the flying buttresses, and the intricacy of the stained-glass windows are a testament to the prosperity and significance of Kutná Hora." Continuing their walk, the class arrived at the Italian Court. "This building," Mr. Novák said, "once housed the Royal Mint. Here, the famous Prague groschen coins were minted. These coins played a crucial role in the economic rise of the region." As the class neared the Sedlec Ossuary, Mr. Novák's tone became a bit more sombre. "This chapel is adorned with the bones of tens of thousands, a haunting reminder of the bubonic plague and the Hussite wars. It might seem macabre, but it's also a reflection on the impermanence of life and the equality of people in death." Finally, as they stood in the heart of the town, the teacher swept his arm around, "All these treasures you see, from the stone fountains to the grand palaces, are why Kutná Hora is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This city is not just a treasure of the Czech Republic, but of the entire world."