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Introduction
Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, stands as one of Europe's most captivating cities, boasting a remarkable blend of historical architecture and cultural richness. Nestled along the Vltava River, this "City of a Hundred Spires" boasts a skyline punctuated by Gothic and Baroque architecture, with the iconic Prague Castle presiding over the landscape. Founded in the 6th century, Prague's rich history is evident in its well-preserved Old Town Square, the astronomical clock, and the picturesque Charles Bridge. Beyond its stunning aesthetics, the city offers a thriving cultural scene with world-class museums, opera houses, and art galleries. Prague's reputation for excellent beer is well-deserved, with numerous traditional pubs and modern microbreweries dotting the city. From its cobblestone streets to its hidden courtyards, from its Jewish Quarter to its Communist-era relics, Prague invites visitors to explore a captivating tapestry of European history, art, and culture, all while indulging in hearty Czech cuisine and the warm hospitality of its people.
Interesting Facts about Prague
- Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world, covering an area of 70,000 square metres.
- The Astronomical Clock in Prague's Old Town Square, installed in 1410, is the oldest functioning astronomical clock globally.
- Prague is home to the world's largest club, Karlovy Lazne, which boasts five floors, each with a different music genre.
- The city's Charles Bridge took 45 years to build and was the only means of crossing the Vltava River until 1841.
- Prague's Petrin Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower, stands at 63.5 metres tall and offers panoramic views of the city.
- The narrowest street in Prague, located in the Old Town, is only 50 centimetres wide and requires traffic lights for pedestrians.
- Prague's Jewish Quarter is home to Europe's oldest active synagogue, the Old-New Synagogue, dating back to the 13th century.
- The city consumes more beer per capita than any other in the world, with Czechs drinking an average of 143 litres per person annually.
- Prague's Lennon Wall, a colourful tribute to John Lennon and symbol of freedom, has been continuously painted over since the 1980s.
- The city is home to unique 'beer spas', where visitors can bathe in beer as part of a relaxing treatment.
- Prague's public transport system is ranked the fifth best in the world and includes three metro lines, trams, and buses.
- The Dancing House, a modern architectural marvel nicknamed 'Fred and Ginger', stands out amongst Prague's historic buildings.
History
Prague's history is a rich tapestry spanning over a millennium, weaving together tales of kings, emperors, artists and revolutionaries. Founded in the 9th century, the city flourished as the seat of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors, reaching its golden age under Charles IV in the 14th century. This period saw the construction of iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral. The 16th century brought Renaissance splendour under Rudolf II, attracting scholars and artists from across Europe. Prague's baroque transformation in the 17th and 18th centuries left an indelible mark on its architecture. The 19th century ushered in a Czech national revival, whilst the 20th century witnessed tumultuous changes: from the birth of Czechoslovakia in 1918 to Nazi occupation, followed by four decades of Communist rule. The Velvet Revolution of 1989 peacefully overthrew communism, leading to the establishment of the Czech Republic in 1993, with Prague as its capital. Today, the city stands as a living museum, its cobbled streets and stunning architecture bearing witness to its remarkable journey through time.
Main Attractions
Prague Castle
Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a magnificent testament to over a millennium of Czech history. Founded around 880 CE by Prince Bořivoj of the Přemyslid Dynasty, this sprawling complex has evolved from a modest wooden fortress into the largest ancient castle in the world, covering an impressive 70,000 square metres. The castle has served as the seat of power for Bohemian kings, Holy Roman emperors, and now the Czech president, shaping the nation's political and cultural identity. Its diverse architecture spans Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, with St. Vitus Cathedral as its crowning jewel. Visitors can explore a wealth of attractions within the castle grounds, including the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Golden Lane, and the South Tower, which offers panoramic views of Prague.
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and the spiritual symbol of the Czech state, stands as the largest and most important church in Prague. Commissioned by Charles IV in 1344, its construction spanned nearly six centuries, finally reaching completion in 1929. The cathedral, situated within Prague Castle, boasts impressive dimensions of 124 metres in length and 33 metres in width, with its main tower soaring to 102.8 metres. This architectural marvel served as the coronation site for Czech kings and queens and houses royal tombs in its crypt. The cathedral's rich history is reflected in its stunning features, including the St. Wenceslas Chapel adorned with precious stones, the Golden Gate entrance, and magnificent stained-glass windows, notably those designed by Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge, an iconic medieval stone arch bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess. Commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357 to replace the flood-damaged Judith Bridge, this Gothic masterpiece was completed in 1402 under the guidance of architect Petr Parléř13. Stretching 516 metres in length and nearly 10 metres wide, the bridge boasts 16 arches and is adorned with 30 Baroque-style statues.
Old Town Square
The Old Town Square, or Staroměstské náměstí, is the historic heart of Prague, dating back to the 12th century. This magnificent square, considered one of Europe's most beautiful, has been the city's main marketplace and the stage for numerous significant events throughout its millennium-long history. Surrounded by stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture, the square boasts several iconic landmarks, including the Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock, the Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn with its distinctive 80-metre spires, and the Baroque St. Nicholas Church. Other notable features include the Jan Hus Memorial, erected in 1915, and the recently rebuilt Marian Column.
The Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock in Prague, also known as the Orloj, is a remarkable medieval timepiece adorning the southern wall of the Old Town Hall in Prague's Old Town Square. Installed in 1410, it is the world's third-oldest astronomical clock and the oldest still in operation. This intricate marvel not only displays the time but also tracks celestial bodies, showing the positions of the Sun and Moon, as well as various astronomical details. The clock face is complemented by a calendar dial and an hourly show featuring moving apostle figures and other sculptures, including a striking skeleton representing Death. Over its 600-year history, the Orloj has undergone several renovations and has become one of Prague's most photographed landmarks, captivating visitors with its beauty and complexity.
Strahov Library
The magnificent Strahov Library, nestled within Prague's Strahov Monastery, stands as one of the world's most beautiful historical libraries. Founded in the 12th century, this remarkable institution houses approximately 200,000 volumes, including 3,000 manuscripts and 1,500 first prints. The library features two splendid halls: the Baroque-style Theological Hall, built between 1671-1674, and the grander Philosophical Hall, constructed in the Classical style between 1783-1785. Both halls showcase exquisite ceiling frescoes, gilded wooden shelves, and remarkable collections of historical books. Between these halls lies the fascinating Cabinet of Curiosities, a predecessor to modern museums displaying mysterious and remarkable findings. The library is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00 throughout the year, except for Christmas Day and Easter Sunday, with an entrance fee of 80 CZK. Whilst visitors cannot handle the books directly or enter the halls themselves due to preservation concerns, they can admire these magnificent spaces from viewing corridors, making it an essential stop for any cultural enthusiast visiting Prague.
Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
The Jewish Quarter in Prague, also known as Josefov, is a remarkable testament to the city's rich Jewish heritage. Established in the 12th century, this historic area has endured centuries of turbulent history, including pogroms and segregation, yet has emerged as one of Europe's best-preserved complexes of Jewish historical monuments. Despite significant demolition in the late 19th century, the quarter retains several important synagogues, including the Old-New Synagogue, which is Europe's oldest active synagogue, and the ornate Spanish Synagogue. The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its layered tombstones dating back to the 15th century, stands as a poignant reminder of the community's past. Today, Josefov is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a vibrant cultural hub, offering visitors a profound glimpse into Prague's Jewish history through its museums, memorials, and architectural treasures.
Petřín Hill
Petřín Hill, a verdant oasis in the heart of Prague, stands as one of the city's most beloved landmarks and recreational areas. Rising 318 metres above sea level, this picturesque hill offers visitors a delightful escape from the bustling city centre. The hill is crowned by the iconic Petřín Lookout Tower, a 63.5-metre-tall steel structure resembling the Eiffel Tower, which was erected in 1891 for the General Land Centennial Exhibition. Visitors can ascend the tower's 299 steps or take a lift for panoramic views of Prague and, on clear days, even glimpse Snezka, the highest peak in Czechia, some 150 kilometres away. The hill itself is a tapestry of attractions, including charming gardens, a mirror maze, an observatory, and the historic Church of St. Lawrence. Accessible via a funicular railway or winding paths, Petřín Hill continues to enchant both locals and tourists alike with its natural beauty, cultural significance, and breathtaking vistas of the Czech capital.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square, known in Czech as Václavské náměstí, is a vibrant boulevard in the heart of Prague's New Town district. Originally established in 1348 as a horse market by King Charles IV, it has since evolved into a bustling commercial and cultural centre, stretching 750 metres long and 60 metres wide. The square is dominated by the Neo-Renaissance National Museum at its southeastern end and the iconic statue of Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia. Throughout its history, Wenceslas Square has been the stage for numerous significant events, including the declaration of Czechoslovak independence in 1918, anti-communist protests in 1968, and the Velvet Revolution in 1989. Today, it serves as a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists, boasting a plethora of shops, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues, whilst continuing to be a focal point for political demonstrations and national celebrations.
Golden Lane
The Golden Lane, nestled within Prague Castle, is a charming and historic street that has captivated visitors for centuries. Originally constructed in the late 16th century to house Rudolf II's castle guards, the lane derives its name from the goldsmiths who later inhabited its colourful, diminutive houses. Despite popular myths about alchemists residing there, historians suggest this is unlikely. The lane's narrow passage, once barely a metre wide in places, has been home to various residents over the years, including Franz Kafka, who lived in house number 22 for a brief period. Today, the Golden Lane boasts 11 historic houses, each offering a glimpse into the past with period scenes depicting artisan life, exhibitions of medieval armoury, and traditional Czech shops.
Top Museums
National Museum
The National Museum in Prague, founded in 1818, is the largest and oldest museum in the Czech Republic. It occupies two magnificent buildings at the top of Wenceslas Square: the Historical Building, a monumental neo-Renaissance structure completed in 1891, and the New Building, connected by an underground corridor. The museum houses an impressive collection of over 14 million items spanning natural history, Czech history, art, music, and culture. Its exhibitions showcase everything from prehistoric fossils and animal skeletons to medieval artefacts and modern Czech history. The museum underwent extensive renovations from 2011 to 2018, reopening with updated permanent exhibitions and modern multimedia technologies to enhance visitor experience. As a symbol of Czech national identity and cultural heritage, the National Museum continues to attract over a million visitors annually, offering a comprehensive insight into the country's rich past and natural world.
National Gallery Prague
The National Gallery Prague, established in 1796, stands as one of the world's oldest public art galleries and one of Central Europe's largest museums. This prestigious institution manages the Czech Republic's most extensive art collection, boasting nearly 400,000 items spanning from medieval to contemporary works. The gallery's exhibitions are not confined to a single building but are spread across several historic structures throughout Prague, including the Trade Fair Palace, which houses the modern art collection, and the Convent of St Agnes of Bohemia, home to medieval art. Visitors can marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Klimt, alongside works by celebrated Czech artists. The National Gallery Prague continues to play a vital role in preserving Czech artistic heritage whilst offering diverse educational programmes and temporary exhibitions to engage and inspire both local and international audiences.
Lobkowicz Palace Museum
The Lobkowicz Palace Museum, situated within the Prague Castle complex, offers visitors a unique glimpse into Bohemian and European history through the lens of the distinguished Lobkowicz family. Housed in a 16th-century palace, it is the only privately owned building in the castle grounds and showcases one of Europe's finest private art collections. The museum boasts an impressive array of artefacts spanning over 2,000 years, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Bruegel the Elder, Canaletto, and Velázquez. Visitors can explore exquisitely decorated rooms featuring historical weapons, ceramics, and valuable musical instruments, as well as hand-annotated manuscripts by Mozart and Beethoven. The palace's Baroque Concert Hall, adorned with stunning 17th-century frescoes, hosts daily classical music concerts, adding to the cultural richness of the experience. With an informative audio guide narrated by the Lobkowicz family members and curators, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through art, music, and Czech noble history.
Jewish Museum
The Jewish Museum in Prague, established in 1906, stands as one of the oldest Jewish museums in Europe and boasts one of the world's largest collections of Judaica. Comprising several historic synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and a Ceremonial Hall, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through Jewish history, traditions, and customs in the Czech lands. Its vast collection includes over 40,000 unique artefacts, 100,000 books, and an extensive archive, showcasing Jewish ceremonial art, textiles, manuscripts, and visual artworks. The museum's tragic yet remarkable history during World War II, when it became a repository for confiscated Jewish property, adds a poignant layer to its significance. Today, it continues to serve as a vibrant centre for research, education, and cultural events, attracting numerous visitors to its UNESCO-listed historic sites in Prague's former Jewish Quarter.
Museum of Communism
The Museum of Communism in Prague offers visitors a compelling glimpse into life under the communist regime in Czechoslovakia from 1948 to 1989. Recently relocated to a more spacious venue near Republic Square, the museum presents a chronological exhibition divided into three sections: 'the dream, reality, and nightmare'. Through a collection of original artefacts, photographs, propaganda materials, and reconstructed spaces such as a schoolroom, interrogation cell, and socialist shop, the museum vividly illustrates the political, economic, and social aspects of the era. Visitors can explore the rise of communist ideology, daily life under the regime, and the eventual fall of the Iron Curtain. The museum, which attracts primarily international tourists, provides an engaging and educational experience, offering insight into a significant period of Czech history through its comprehensive displays and informative panels in both Czech and English.
Mucha Museum
The Mucha Museum in Prague has undergone a significant transformation, with a new location set to open on 24 February 2025 in the renovated Baroque Savarin Palace. This new museum, endorsed by the Mucha Foundation and family, will showcase an extensive collection of works by the renowned Czech Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha. The exhibition space, designed by architect Eva Jiřičná, will feature 150 exhibits, including 90 original pieces and reproductions. Visitors can expect to see previously unexhibited works, such as early oil paintings, studies for decorative documents, items related to Mucha's interest in Freemasonry, and study materials for his monumental work, The Slav Epic. This relocation and expansion aim to offer a more comprehensive view of Mucha's artistic legacy, attracting both Czech and international visitors to experience the world's largest collection of Mucha's work.
Franz Kafka Museum
The Franz Kafka Museum, located in the Malá Strana district of Prague, offers visitors a captivating journey into the life and works of one of the 20th century's most influential writers. Housed in the former Herget Brickworks building, the museum opened its doors in 2005 and features two main sections: 'Existential Space', which explores Kafka's life and the environment that shaped him, and 'Imaginary Topography', which delves into how Prague influenced his writing. The exhibition showcases a wealth of materials, including first editions, personal letters, diaries, photographs, and drawings, many of which have never been displayed before. With its dark, labyrinthine layout and haunting audiovisual installations, the museum effectively recreates the claustrophobic and surreal atmosphere often found in Kafka's works. Visitors can gain insight into Kafka's complex relationship with Prague, his family, and his own identity, making it an essential destination for literature enthusiasts and those keen to understand the forces that moulded this literary giant.
Local Cuisine
Prague's culinary scene offers a hearty and flavourful journey through traditional Czech cuisine. Visitors can indulge in iconic dishes such as svíčková, a tender beef sirloin in creamy vegetable sauce, often served with bread dumplings and cranberries. The city's love for pork is evident in dishes like vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut) and the crispy pork knuckle. For a quick bite, try chlebíčky, open-faced sandwiches with various toppings, or savour the rich flavours of Czech goulash. Those with a sweet tooth shouldn't miss trdelník, a chimney cake often filled with ice cream or chocolate. Prague's beer culture is legendary, with countless pubs serving world-renowned Czech lagers to accompany meals. For a truly local experience, visit a traditional Czech restaurant or beer garden, where you can enjoy these comfort foods alongside a perfectly poured Pilsne.
Shopping
Prague offers a diverse and enchanting shopping experience that caters to all tastes and budgets. The city's main shopping thoroughfare, Wenceslas Square, is lined with international brands and department stores, whilst the winding streets of the Old Town and Malá Strana are home to charming boutiques and artisanal shops. For luxury goods, Pařížská Street boasts high-end designer boutiques. Those seeking unique Czech products should explore the Havelská Market, one of the oldest permanent markets in the city, or the seasonal markets in Old Town Square, which offer traditional handicrafts, Bohemian crystal, and locally-made souvenirs. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous galleries selling works by Czech artists. For a more modern shopping experience, visit the Palladium or Nový Smíchov shopping centres. Don't forget to sample some of the city's famous garnets or Bohemian glass, both of which make exquisite gifts. Whether you're after haute couture, vintage finds, or authentic Czech mementos, Prague's diverse shopping scene is sure to delight even the most discerning shoppers.
Nature in and around Prague
Prague, often celebrated for its stunning architecture and rich history, also boasts an abundance of natural beauty both within and around the city. The Czech capital is home to numerous parks and green spaces, offering a refreshing respite from urban life. Petřín Park, one of the largest and most popular green areas, features winding paths, lush gardens, and a lookout tower with panoramic views of the city. For those seeking more rugged terrain, Divoká Šárka nature reserve on the city's outskirts presents a captivating landscape of forests, gorges, and meadows. The Vltava River, which winds through Prague, provides opportunities for leisurely strolls along its banks or more adventurous activities such as paddleboarding.
Getting Around
Prague boasts an efficient and comprehensive public transport system that makes navigating the city a breeze for visitors. The backbone of this network is the metro, with three lines covering most areas of interest and running from 5:00 am to midnight. Complementing the underground are the city's iconic trams, which offer a more scenic way to travel and operate both day and night. Buses serve the outskirts and connect to key locations like the airport. For a unique experience, one can hop on a ferry to cross the Vltava River or take the funicular railway to Petřín Hill. Cycling is gaining popularity, with bike-sharing schemes like Rekola offering a convenient way to explore. The ticketing system is straightforward, with options ranging from 30-minute to 72-hour passes valid across all modes of transport. With its affordability and extensive coverage, Prague's public transport is undoubtedly one of the best ways to discover the Czech capital.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Prague is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). These periods offer a delightful blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable accommodation prices. In spring, the city bursts into bloom, with trees and flowers budding, creating a picturesque setting. Autumn, particularly from mid-September to mid-October, bathes Prague in a golden glow, lending an even more romantic atmosphere to the already charming cityscape. During these months, temperatures are comfortable, typically ranging from 6°C to 20°C, perfect for leisurely strolls through the city's stunning parks and gardens. Visitors can enjoy outdoor cafes, cultural events, and the city's top attractions without the overwhelming crowds of summer or the biting cold of winter.