Prague: A Look into History
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and offers its visitors a wealth of cultural and historical highlights. Numerous sights shape the cityscape and invite you to discover them. Let yourself be enchanted by the special atmosphere of this unique metropolis and enjoy an unforgettable stay in the Czech Republic.
Prague: A Look into History
Various legends surround the founding of the Czech capital. According to one legend, Princess Libuše and her husband Přemysl, who are considered the ancestors of the Bohemian ruling dynasty of the Přemyslids, are said to have founded Prague. However, this account is not historically documented.
The year 870 is regarded as the official founding year of the city, as this is when the foundation stone for Prague Castle was laid. It served as the residence of the Bohemian rulers and is still considered the largest enclosed castle complex in the world today.
In the 14th century, Prague gained considerable importance when Emperor Charles IV declared the city the imperial capital and his representative imperial seat. Prague is also often referred to as the "Golden City". This name is attributed, among other things, to the fact that Charles IV had the towers of Prague Castle gilded. Prague's eventful history is still reflected today in its impressive buildings.
Sights in Prague
The Czech capital boasts a great variety of sights. On a walk through the city, you will encounter historic buildings such as the Powder Tower or the famous Charles Bridge.
The Powder Tower
This historic landmark of the former city fortifications dates back to the 15th century. Originally built as a city gate to the Old Town, the tower was later used as a storage place for black powder. With its Gothic architecture, it is still impressive today and offers a sweeping view over the city from its observation platform.
Prague Old Town
The centre of Prague's Old Town is the Old Town Square with its historic marketplace. Here you will find, among other things, the imposing Church of Our Lady before Týn as well as numerous cafés and restaurants. Also well worth seeing is the Old Town Hall with its world-famous astronomical clock. The square invites you to linger and gives a lively impression of the city's cultural life.
Old Town Hall
The tower of the Gothic-style town hall rises 42 metres above the Old Town Square and is regarded as its architectural centrepiece. Visitors have the opportunity to view the building as part of a guided tour or on their own.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town and is among the oldest stone bridges in Europe. With a length of over 500 metres, it offers an impressive view of the Vltava River and Prague's historic backdrop. It is one of the city's best-known landmarks.
Clementinum
The Clementinum was founded at the end of the 16th century and originally served as a Jesuit college. Today it is considered one of the largest historic building complexes in Europe and is the city's second-largest building complex after Prague Castle. The observatory, the Mirror Chapel and the Baroque library hall are particularly worth seeing.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is one of the country's most important sights. Covering an area of around 45 hectares, it is considered the largest enclosed castle complex in the world. Thanks to its location on Hradčany, it offers a stunning panoramic view over Prague. It is also still the official seat of the Czech president today.
St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is part of Prague Castle and one of the country's most important cathedrals. Numerous coronation ceremonies of Bohemian rulers took place here. Visitors can tour the cathedral or attend a church service.
Golden Lane
Golden Lane is a historic street within Prague Castle. It owes its name to the goldsmiths who settled here in the late Middle Ages. The writer Franz Kafka also lived for a time at house number 22. Today the lane is a popular attraction.
Tip for architecture lovers: The Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik played a significant role in the redesign of Prague Castle. Further works by Plečnik can be seen, among other places, in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square is located not far from the Old Town and is a central meeting point in the city. The National Museum is located at the upper end of the square.
The Jewish Quarter Josefov
The Jewish Quarter of Josefov documents the history of Jewish life in Prague, which dates back to the 10th century. In the 13th century, the Jewish population was relocated to a ghetto in the north of the Old Town. This area is now known as Josefov.
Today, the Old Jewish Cemetery and several synagogues serve as reminders of this eventful past. Particularly worth seeing are:
Old-New Synagogue
Pinkas Synagogue
Maisel Synagogue
Spanish Synagogue
Franz Kafka Monument
Vyšehrad
The stronghold of Vyšehrad is considered the oldest princely residence in the Czech Republic and is picturesquely situated on the Vltava River. From here you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Old Town and Prague Castle. Attractions include the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul as well as the St. Martin Rotunda, the oldest surviving building in Prague.
Our tip: The John Lennon Wall
The John Lennon Wall was created as an improvised memorial after the musician's death. Today it is a symbol of freedom and free expression. Visitors are allowed to leave their mark with pens or chalk in designated areas. However, spray-painting is prohibited.
Best Time to Visit
Prague is an attractive destination all year round. The months of April to September are particularly popular, as pleasant temperatures invite extended city exploration. Those who want to avoid larger crowds should consider the months of April to June as well as September.
Winter Highlight: Christmas Markets in Prague
Prague's Christmas markets offer a special winter experience. As early as late November, the first markets open their stalls, many of them until early January. One of the most famous is the Christmas market on the Old Town Square, which offers traditional food and handicrafts.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey
We wish you a pleasant trip to the Czech Republic and an eventful voyage of discovery through Prague. Please find out about the applicable toll regulations in good time. Also feel free to use our route planner to plan your journey optimally and display suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to help. Feel free to contact us at any time by email.
