History

Prague is a city shaped by more than a thousand years of history, where each era has left a visible and living mark. Founded in the early Middle Ages along the banks of the Vltava River, Prague grew as a political, cultural, and intellectual centre of Central Europe. It was the seat of Bohemian kings and later Holy Roman Emperors, reaching a golden age in the 14th century under Charles IV, who established the city as an imperial capital and founded one of Europe’s oldest universities. Despite wars, occupations, and political upheavals, Prague’s historic core survived remarkably intact, preserving its story in stone.

This history is most vividly expressed through Prague’s extraordinary architecture. The city is often described as an open-air architectural gallery, where Romanesque rotundas, soaring Gothic cathedrals, elegant Renaissance palaces, and richly decorated Baroque churches stand side by side. Iconic landmarks such as Prague Castle—the largest ancient castle complex in the world—Charles Bridge with its statues, and the Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock reflect centuries of craftsmanship and artistic ambition. Later periods added Art Nouveau masterpieces and striking Cubist and modernist buildings, creating a harmonious blend rather than a clash of styles.

Prague today

Today, Prague is a vibrant, confident European capital that balances heritage with modern life. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carefully protected yet fully alive with cafés, galleries, theatres, and cultural events. At the same time, the city is a growing hub for innovation, education, and international business, supported by excellent infrastructure and a high quality of life. Prague’s charm lies not only in its beauty, but in its continuity—a city where history is not confined to museums, architecture is part of everyday life, and the present feels deeply connected to the past.