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History of Prague, and best places to visit!
- April 17, 2023
- Travel
Prague is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe, located in the heart of the Czech Republic, with a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague has a lot to offer visitors, from its famous castle to its charming Old Town. It has a long and rich history that is reflected in its stunning architecture, charming streets, and numerous landmarks. If you’re planning a trip to Prague, we have some of the top things to visit, but first we will take a closer look at the history, culture, and beauty of Prague.
History of Prague
Prague has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a thousand years. It was founded in the 9th century and became the capital of the Bohemian Kingdom in the 14th century. During this time, Prague flourished and many of its most famous landmarks were built, including the Charles Bridge, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Old Town Square.
In the 16th century, Prague became an important center of the Renaissance, with many of its artists and architects influenced by Italian styles. The city continued to thrive under the Habsburgs, who made Prague their capital in the 18th century. During this time, many of the city’s most beautiful buildings were constructed, including the National Museum, the Rudolfinum, and the National Theatre.
Prague’s history took a darker turn in the 20th century, with the city being occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II and then falling under communist rule after the war. However, since the Velvet Revolution of 1989, Prague has once again become a beacon of freedom and democracy, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture, rich culture, and lively atmosphere.
Culture of Prague
Prague has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city is famous for its classical music scene, with many of the world’s greatest composers having lived and worked in Prague, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Dvořák. Prague is also home to a thriving contemporary arts scene, with many galleries and museums showcasing the work of both Czech and international artists. The National Gallery is one of the city’s most important art museums, with a collection that includes works by famous artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.
In addition to its art and music, Prague is also known for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as goulash, dumplings, and roasted pork. The city is also famous for its beer, with many local breweries producing some of the best beer in the world.
Beauty of Prague
Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with stunning architecture, charming streets, and numerous landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Prague is the Charles Bridge, a 14th-century stone bridge that spans the Vltava River and is lined with statues of saints.
Another famous landmark is St. Vitus Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took over 600 years to complete. The cathedral is located within Prague Castle, a sprawling complex of buildings that is one of the largest castles in the world.
The Old Town Square is another must-see destination in Prague, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Tyn Church and the Old Town Hall Tower. The square is also home to the famous Astronomical Clock, a medieval clock that displays the time, the phases of the moon, and other astronomical information.
Other beautiful landmarks in Prague include the Prague Municipal House, a stunning Art Nouveau building that is now used as a concert hall and exhibition space, and the Petřín Lookout Tower, a 60-meter-tall tower that offers stunning views of the city.
Places to visit in Prague:
Prague Castle:
The Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, dating back to the 9th century. It’s located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the cityscape. Inside, you’ll find the famous St. Vitus Cathedral, which took over 600 years to complete, as well as numerous palaces, museums, and galleries.
Charles Bridge:
The Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks, spanning the Vltava River and connecting the Old Town to the Lesser Town. It’s lined with beautiful Baroque statues and offers fantastic views of the city. Be sure to visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid the crowds.
Old Town Square:
The Old Town Square is the heart of Prague’s Old Town, home to stunning architecture, historic churches, and the famous Astronomical Clock. It’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Prague and watch the world go by.
Jewish Quarter:
The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, is one of Prague’s most historic neighborhoods. It’s home to the Jewish Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the city’s Jewish heritage, as well as the Old Jewish Cemetery and numerous synagogues.
Wenceslas Square:
Wenceslas Square is the commercial center of Prague, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also home to the National Museum, which offers a fantastic overview of Czech history and culture.
Petrin Hill:
Petrin Hill is a beautiful green space in the heart of Prague, offering fantastic views of the city from its summit. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Vysehrad:
Vysehrad is a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the Vltava River. It’s home to the stunning Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, as well as a cemetery where many famous Czechs are buried.
Letna Park:
Letna Park is a beautiful park located on a hill overlooking the city. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the views, as well as to visit the famous Metronome, a large sculpture that marks the spot where a former statue of Stalin once stood.
National Theatre:
The National Theatre is one of Prague’s most iconic buildings, located on the banks of the Vltava River. It’s a great place to catch a performance of opera, ballet, or drama, and offers a fantastic insight into Czech culture.
Dancing House:
The Dancing House is a modern building located on the banks of the Vltava River, designed by architects Frank Gehry and Vlado Milunic. It’s a striking contrast to Prague’s historic architecture and offers a unique perspective on the city.
In conclusion, Prague is a city full of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re interested in ancient castles, charming neighborhoods, or modern art, Prague has something to offer everyone. So, make sure to add these top things to visit to your itinerary when planning your trip to Prague!
