Prague The Czech Capital
Prague proudly presides over a fabulous country that has territories like Bohemia and Moravia, replete with historical sites and romantic tales. Its creative people with unconventional lifestyle contributed enormously in the fields of arts, literature and music in most part of Europe. The French first called them Bohemians indicating perhaps their place origin. Long years of Soviet dominance couldn’t stifle their liberal and unorthodox attitude. Prague, being the capital of these irrepressible and creative people, is a vibrant city that travelers love to explore.
Located almost in the heart of Europe, Prague isn’t far from other major European cities like Vienna, Bratislava, Berlin, Budapest and Warsaw. This proximity contributed Prague to develop as a modern and forward-looking city.
Prague has a number of historical sites like the Prague Castle, Mala Strana, the Old Town that includes Charles Bridge and Josefov, the New Town and Vysehrad. UNESCO has acknowledged the archaeological importance of the city’s historical centre and listed it as a World Heritage Site.
The most unique and striking aspects of Prague’s historical centre are the narrow and winding cobble-stone streets and narrower lanes. The buildings here are in different architectural styles, indicating that the vibrancy and creativity of the Czech people do not bind them to any orthodox rigidity. Travelers get amazed at the presence of Gothic cathedrals and spires, palaces and castles in Baroque and Renaissance styles, neo-classical buildings and even drab and functional contemporary structures displaying the communists’ abhorrence for any ostentatious display.
Prague is a city of Gothic spires. Currently 500 towers dominate the city’s skyline. Whether the sun is rising or setting, these towers look stunning. It doesn’t really matter how many of these you are able to see at a time.
Prague boasts of many museums, art galleries, theaters and concert halls which made the city the proud owner of ‘European City of Culture’ title in 2000.
Prague is generously endowed with great natural beauty as well. Its rolling topography and low hills provide stunning views. The Vltava River rambles through the city creating some little tranquil islands, ideal for picnics.
Prague is famous for exquisite Czech glass, costume jewelery, thirst-quenching Pilsner beer and herbal cosmetics.
Prague offers right type of entertainment opportunities for everybody. Pubs and restaurants are seldom open after midnight but many bars and clubs don’t close their doors till the sun rises allowing patrons bar hopping and dancing throughout the night.
Varieties of hotels are available ranging from luxury to budget. The Meteor Plaza is in business since early 14th century. It is located – as it has to be if it is of 14th century vintage – in a historic building – expensive indeed but very enjoyable. Browse through the Net and book online a hotel of your choice online.
The best way to enjoy an ancient city like Prague is to use your own two feet as far as possible. You may get lost in its maze of serpentine lanes. But you will enjoy it just to flounder at the magic of being in the midst of happy and carefree people wearing unconventional clothes, walking, shopping or laughing and chatting at lively bars and friendly restaurants.
