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Prague has been the Czech state's cultural, political and economic heart for over 800 years. Lying on a bend in the River Vitava, halfway between Berlin and Vienna, it is set on seven verdant cliffs dotted by beautiful castles and churches. Prague is widely known to be one of the most exquisite and exotic cities in Europe.
In 1992, Prague became the capital metropolis of the new Czech Republic, after the division of Czechoslovakia. Since the cessation of Communism, Prague has grown with lively nightlife and beautiful surroundings.
The city flourished during the fourteenth century under the rule of Charles IV. Charles founded the first university in central, northern and eastern Europe, today known as the Charles University. He also founded New Town, adjacent to the Old Town, rebuilt Prague Castle and Vysehrad, and erected Charles Bridge. Under his reign, many new churches were built, including St. Vitrus' Cathedral, and Charles has crowned Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. He wanted Prague to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, dominating the whole empire, with Prague Castle overlooking the city and the Gothic cathedral dominating the castle. To this end, he created many beautiful buildings which are still with us today.
The castle was built in the 9th century and has since remained the seat of power. It is one of the most extensive castles in the world and is the abode of the crown jewels of the Bohemian Kingdom. Just outside is the eighteenth-century Sternberg Palace (Sternbersky palace, home to the National Gallery with its superb collection of Old Masters.
The complex also contains the Wonderful Royal Gardens and the stately Gothic St Vitus Cathedral, begun in 1344. The walls of the chapel that houses the tomb of St Wenceslas are lined with precious stones and beautiful paintings.
When to visit:
March to April, or September to November
Highlights:
- The Old Town Hall - famous for its astronomical clock, on the hour every hour enjoys the procession of the twelve apostles who emerge from a small trap door.
- The synagogues of Joselove - this site in the Jewish Quarter consists of six synagogues and a cemetery commemorating the killing of the Jews in 1270. Visiting is a hugely emotional experience.
- Wallenstein Garden - many concerts are held here in the summer months. Vysehrad Castle is perched on a cliff high above the Vitava River. Nove Mesto the 'New City.
- Crossing the Charles Bridge
You should know:
Entrance expenses are payable at most tourist attractions.
