Updated on:May 27, 2024
by
Ahmed Samir
Ahmed Samir
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. It is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and the most visited city in the Czech Republic. Due to its many towers, the city is known as the Hundred Towers.
Prague was built in 800 AD, but history says it was inhabited since farmers lived there in the Palaeolithic period. Prague is the country’s political and economic centre, the seat of Parliament, and Prague Palace, the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.
Millions of tourists visit the city every year. Its attractions include landscapes, plazas, cobbled walkways, art galleries, and many others. The best time to visit Prague is in late spring or early fall, especially between May and September; the weather is great then. There is a high season in Prague, which is in June, July, and August, and the weather is sunny and dry during these months.
Now, let’s learn about Prague, its most famous attractions, and what you can do in the city. Pack your bags, and let’s journey in this beautiful city.
Historical Overview
Prague’s history stretches back a millennium, with its origins in the 9th century. The city’s strategic location along the Vltava River made it a crucial centre for trade and commerce in the medieval period. Prague was officially founded in 885 with the construction of the Prague Castle by Prince Bořivoj of the Přemyslid dynasty. The castle remains a central landmark symbol of the city’s historical continuity.
During the 14th century, under the reign of Charles IV, the city flourished as the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Charles IV initiated numerous construction projects, including the iconic Charles Bridge and the establishment of Charles University, the oldest university in Central Europe. This period I marked Prague’s transformation into a cultural and intellectual hub.
The city endured turbulent times in the subsequent centuries, including the Hussite Wars, the Thirty Years’ War, and the occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II. Despite these challenges, Prague emerged resilient, preserving its architectural heritage and cultural identity. The Velvet Revolution of 1989 marked the end of Communist rule, establishing the Czech Republic and Prague’s resurgence as a significant European capital.
Things to do in Prague
Prague is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe, full of attractions you will love seeing and discovering. Now, it is time to start your tour of the city.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge was built in 1357 by Charles IV, replacing the old bridge that was destroyed by the floods. It is one of the most famous attractions in the city, and you will enjoy walking on it and taking in the surrounding scenery.
While you walk along the bridge, you will see the old statues of the Roman Emperor Charles IV, John of Nepomuk, and other notable statues. In addition to that, there is the magnificent view of River Vltara and the structure’s superb Gothic gates.
Prague Astronomical Clock
Prague’s Astronomical Clock is one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions. It is currently the third-oldest clock in the world and the oldest astronomical clock still in operation.
The clock was built in the 15th century. The functioning of the astronomical clock, its indices, chimes, bells, and the movements of its statues are controlled by the original iron object within it.
You can take beautiful pictures of the statues and climb to the top of the tower to witness Prague’s most beautiful panoramic views.
Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is one of the most visited attractions in the city. The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Prague and is also home to the tombs of numerous saints and three Bohemian kings.
The construction of the magnificent cathedral started in 1344, and it took 600 years to build. It is one of the wealthiest churches in Europe. Inside St. Vitus Cathedral, you will see the extravagant silver tomb of St. John of Nepochem and stunning Art Nouveau stained glass. You can also climb up the cathedral’s 97-meter central tower for splendid views over Prague.
The Prague Zoo
The Prague Zoo is one of Prague’s most important tourist attractions and one of the top 10 zoos in the world. It opened in 1931 and is located in the Troja suburbs, just a short distance from the city centre.
The Prague Zoo includes more than 4,200 animals, representing 650 species. Some of which are considered close to extinction. You can ride a chairlift with great views of many of the animal enclosures and visit the huge giraffe exhibit and the steamy indoor tropical jungle.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the most visited attraction in Prague. It is located in the Hradcany district and was once the home of Bohemia’s Kings. Today, the castle is the official residence of the Czech Republic’s President.
Prague Castle was built in 870 AD in a magnificent architectural style. Inside the castle walls, there are many buildings, such as St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane. You can find a great spot to enjoy the castle lights at night, which you will love seeing.
The National Museum
Another famous place in Prague is the National Museum, which contains collections from many fields, such as mineralogy, zoology, anthropology, and archaeology. It is known as the oldest museum in the Czech Republic. It was founded in the 19th century and moved to its current location in 1891.
Nicolas Church
St. Nicolas Church is located in the Old Town. Jesuits built it in the 18th century, and it is an excellent example of the Baroque style. When you enter the church, you will see the lavish 19th-century interior design and a sizeable Baroque painting by a famous Czech artist named Karel Skreta.
The church also has a tower bell, which you can climb to see a fantastic city view. While you visit the church, you can attend one of the beautiful concerts held there and enjoy a great time.
The Petrin Lookout Tower
It was built in 1891 and named after the hill it stands on. It is about 64 meters high and is a smaller version of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You can climb to the mountain, which will take about 30 minutes, or take the funicular railway. You will climb 299 steps to the top when you reach the tower. You will see a beautiful view of the city and its lovely buildings from the top.
Prague Municipal House
The Prague Municipal House, built in 1912, contains many collections of Art Nouveau and the city’s most important concert hall, Smetana Hall.
The façade is decorated with a moral on the arch above the second-floor balcony. Inside, you will find lovely interior design, stained glass windows, and restaurants and cafes.
Prague National Theatre
Prague National Theatre is located on the banks of the River Vltava. It is the perfect place for art lovers and you can see opera and ballet performances there. It was opened in 1881 as a symbol of Czech national identity. The theatre has been renewed and is a monument to the city’s rich talent and cultural significance.
Visegrad Castle
Visegrad Castle, founded in the 10th century, stands high above the Vltava River, overlooking Prague City. It is also known as Upper Castle or Castle on the Heights.
Many landmarks are inside the castle, including the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul. There is also a cemetery in Sirad, where the remains of many famous Czechs were buried over time. The Saint Martin lobby, the oldest in the Czech Republic, dates back to the 11th century.
Church of the Virgin Mary before Tin
The Church of the Virgin Mary before Tin is located in Old Town Square, one of the most famous tourist places. Construction began in the 14th century and continued until the beginning of the 15th century.
The church was built in the famous Gothic style and has towers about 80 meters long each. This beautiful church has many worth-seeing attractions, including numerous fine tombs, the superb Gothic northern portal with its Crucifixion sculpture, and early Baroque altarpiece paintings dating back to 1649.
Culinary Delights
Prague’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Czech cuisine and international flavours. The city’s gastronomic offerings range from hearty, rustic dishes to innovative culinary creations.
Traditional Czech Cuisine
Traditional Czech cuisine is characterised by its hearty and comforting dishes. A typical meal often includes roast meats, dumplings, and sauerkraut. Signature dishes include:
- Svíčková na smetaně: Marinated beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce, bread dumplings, and cranberry sauce.
- Vepřo knedlo zelo: Roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut.
- Guláš: A rich, slow-cooked beef stew, often served with bread dumplings.
- Trdelník: A sweet pastry made from rolled dough, grilled and coated with sugar and walnut mix, often filled with ice cream or other sweet fillings.
Beer Culture
The Czech Republic is renowned for its beer culture; Prague is no exception. The country has the world’s highest beer consumption per capita, and beer is an integral part of Czech social life. Pilsner, a type of pale lager, originated in the Czech city of Plzeň, and it remains the most popular beer style. Prague offers a plethora of pubs, breweries, and beer gardens where visitors can sample a wide variety of local brews. The city’s microbreweries, such as U Fleků and U Medvídků, provide a unique opportunity to taste traditional Czech beers brewed on-site.
Festivals and Events
Prague’s calendar is packed with festivals and events celebrating its rich cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. These festivals attract visitors worldwide and offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant cultural life.
Prague Spring International Music Festival
The Prague Spring International Music Festival, established in 1946, is one of the world’s most prestigious classical music festivals. Held annually in May and June, the festival features a diverse programme of orchestral and chamber music, opera, and solo performances. The festival’s opening concert traditionally features Smetana’s “Má vlast,” a symphonic cycle celebrating Czech history and landscapes.
Signal Festival
The Signal Festival is a modern festival of light art and emerging technologies, transforming Prague’s historic buildings and public spaces into a luminous spectacle. Held every October, the festival showcases the work of international artists and attracts large crowds, blending contemporary art with the city’s architectural heritage.
Prague International Film Festival – Febiofest
Febiofest is one of the largest film festivals in the Czech Republic, showcasing a wide range of international and domestic films. Held annually in March, it features a diverse programme that includes feature films, documentaries, and short films, as well as retrospectives and special screenings.
Conclusion
With its rich history, and cultural vibrancy, Prague is a city that captivates the imagination and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. From its medieval roots to its modern-day charm, Prague offers a unique blend of the old and the new, inviting visitors to explore its many layers and discover the stories that have shaped this remarkable city. Whether strolling across the Charles Bridge, marvelling at the astronomical clock, or enjoying a traditional Czech meal, Prague promises an unforgettable experience that will linger in your memory long after you leave.
