Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, also serves as the historical heart of Bohemia. Nestled along the banks of the Vltava River, this vibrant city is home to approximately 1.4 million residents.
Renowned as a political, cultural, and economic center of Central Europe, Prague boasts a captivating history highlighted by its diverse architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia, it was the residence of several Holy Roman Emperors, with Charles IV (r. 1346–1378) and Rudolf II (r. 1575–1611) being particularly notable figures. Throughout its history, Prague played a pivotal role during the Habsburg monarchy and was a significant city in Austria-Hungary. It witnessed major events such as the Bohemian and Protestant Reformations and the Thirty Years' War and was central to the 20th-century narrative of Czechoslovakia during the interwar period and the subsequent Communist era.
The city is a treasure trove of cultural attractions, including the magnificent Prague Castle, the iconic Charles Bridge, the historic Old Town Square with its renowned astronomical clock, the Jewish Quarter, and the scenic Petřín hill and Vyšehrad. Since 1992, Prague's historic center has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to its architectural wonders, Prague is home to over ten major museums, numerous theaters, galleries, and cinemas, along with a wealth of historical exhibits. The city boasts an extensive modern public transportation network that ensures easy access to all its attractions. It is also an educational hub, featuring a range of public and private institutions, including Charles University in Prague, the oldest university in Central Europe.
Classified as an "Alpha" global city according to GaWC studies, Prague was ranked as the 69th most livable city in the world by Mercer in 2019. The PICSA Index placed it even higher, at 13th. Its rich cultural heritage and history make it a highly sought-after tourist destination, attracting more than 8.5 million international visitors annually as of 2017. That same year, Prague ranked as the fifth most visited city in Europe, following London, Paris, Rome, and Istanbul.
Source: Wikipedia
