Prague

Ever since its foundation, the Czech capital has played an important role in the history of this nation and of Europe. Enchanted by its grandeur and beauty, many famous names have paid homage to Prague, the city has inspired many a work of art and gained a whole host of nicknames, from Golden Prague and the City of hundred Spires to the dream in stone.

One of the world’s most attractive cities, Prague has had this reputation since medieval times. Its very special historical centre, along with Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and numerous churches, palaces and gardens, contains examples of every architectural style of the last millennium; there are Romanesque rotundas and basilicas, Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance palaces, a huge amount of Baroque and lots of Art Nouveau structures; many of these are included in UNESCO’s list of world cultural heritage sites. Prague is a city with an inimitable atmosphere; it’s romantic and full of life, grand and mysterious, but also friendly and close to the beating heart of the Old Continent.

Prague Castle – This is a symbol of the millennium-long story of the Czech nation, the erstwhile residence of the Czech rulers and the current abode of the Czech president. The highlight of this impressive complex of palaces, churches, chapels, courtyards, squares and lanes, built in every architectural style going, is the Gothic Cathedral of St Vitus, which is a UNESCO-listed site along with the city centre. Other places to visit include the Prague Castle Story Exhibition, the picture gallery, the Toy Museum and the Convent of St George, now home to a branch of the National Gallery.

Cathedral of St Vitus – This Gothic cathedral, a spiritual symbol of the Czech state, dominates Prague Castle. Here you will find the Chapel of St Wenceslas containing the saint’s tomb; in the crypt you’ll find the tombs of Bohemia’s Kings and a special (locked) room contains the Czech crown jewels.

Strahov Monastery – This monastery belonging to the Premonstratensian order was established in 1140 by Vladislav II. The Baroque complex contains the precious Strahov library, housing numerous medieval illuminated texts, maps, globes and graphic illustrations, the Baroque Theology Hall, the neo-Classical Philosophy Hall and the Strahov Picture Gallery, one of the most notable collections held by any monastery in central Europe.

Charles Bridge – The oldest of Prague’s bridges dates from the 14th century and is decorated with a unique set of Baroque statues. The Old Town Bridge Tower is considered the most beautiful Gothic gate in Europe, and the exhibition on the second floor examines the life and work of Emperor Charles IV. The Malostranská Bridge Tower is also open to the public and contains an exhibition called ‘On the Bridge, About the Bridge’.

Jewish Town – This well preserved group of Jewish sites has Europe-wide significance. With the exception of the Old-New Synagogue, most of the sites, including the 15th-century Old Jewish Cemetery, belong to the Jewish Museum.

Vyšehrad – The legendary residence of the first Czech rulers is today a Baroque citadel boasting the Romanesque Rotunda of St Martin and the Gothic Church of SS Peter and Paul. The Vyšehrad Cemetery contains the earthly remains of 600 important Czech figures from down the ages.

House of the Black Madonna in Celetná Street – This exquisite piece of Czech Cubist architecture dating from the years 1911–1912 was built by the architect Gočár. Inside you can visit the Museum of Czech Cubism and the Grand Café Orient, the only Cubist coffee house in the world.

Palace Gardens beneath Prague Castle– This set of palace gardens with its many terraces, stairways, summerhouses and original sculptural decoration is in the Malá Strana district, on the slopes below Prague Castle.

Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock – Since 1338 the building has been the administrative centre of the Old Town. The oldest parts of the complex are the tower and chapel dating from the Gothic period; the astronomical clock dates from the early 15th century. The tour takes in the historical interiors as well as the entrance hall, with its Gothic vaulting and mosaic by painter M. Aleš, and a hall containing paintings by Brožík.

Municipal House – This Art Nouveau structure containing a number of grand halls was built in the early 20th century by architects Balšánek and Polívka as a cultural centre for the Czech population of Prague. The beating heart of the building is the Smetana Hall, Prague’s principal concert venue. Other unique Art Nouveau decoration can be admired in a number of smaller halls and rooms as well as in the coffee house and French restaurant.

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