Prague

Step into the square and a feeling of the dramatic history of Prague permeates the atmosphere. This is a trip back into history 600 or 700 years. It is unquestionably one of the most beautiful historical sights in Europe.

The Jan Hus statue lies at the centre of the Old Town Square. The statue was erected on 6th July 1915 to mark the 500th anniversary of the reformer’s death. The groundswell of supporters for his beliefs during the 14th and 15th centuries eventually led to the Hussite wars. Despite the initial outcry at the modern style of the sculpture, the statue stands as a symbol of Czech identity.

The most notable sights in Prague's Old Town Square, easily viewed from the comfort of the outdoor cafes, are the Church of Our Lady before Tyn, The Astronomical Clock Tower (part of the town hall) and many buildings of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic styles.

The Czech Republic is now part of the European Union, as of 1st May 2004.

the city of prague


About the City of Prague

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is known as the "Jewel in the Crown" of Central Europe.

Since the Middle Ages the city has played a pivotal role in the development of the region. Prague is widely recognised as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is now a major centre for tourism. In 1992 the historical core of the city, an area covering some 866 hectares, was listed in the UNESCO World Cultural & Natural Heritage Register.

The centre of Prague stretches across the river Vltava and consists of 4 main districts. On one bank: Stare Mesto (Old Town), Nove Mesto (New Town) & Josefov (the former Jewish Town). On the other: Mala Strana (Prague Castle side). These are all known as Prague 1. Two more districts are situated close to the city centre: Hradcany (at the back of Prague Castle) and & Vysehrad, to the south of the New Town.

Tourism is now a major factor in Prague's economy; the city is alive with fine restaurants, elegant hotels, fascinating sightseeing and first rate entertainment. High on the Petrin hillside, with magnificent views over the whole city, is Prague Castle, the largest medieval castle in Europe & Prague's No.1 tourist attraction. There are also excellent vistas to be enjoyed from: the Old Town Hall Tower, the Old Town Bridge Tower, the Lesser Town Bridge Tower, St. Vitus Cathedral Tower, Petrin Observation Tower & Vysehrad.

At the heart of Prague's Old Town lies the famous Old Town Square.