Prague is a magnificent city located in the very center of Europe. Its beauty can even be compared with Paris. Its history has passed millennia: the city has witnessed the declaration of independence of Nazi control, oppressive communism and capitalist democracy.
The capital of the Czech Republic is a dynamic and lively city, in the development of which tourism plays an important role. The population of Prague and visiting people admire the stunning buildings and beautiful old streets. Each district of Prague has its own characteristic atmosphere and unique charm.
Let's learn more about this wonderful city!
Prague: description and history
Prague is the majestic capital of the Czech Republic, located in the northwest of the country. The magical city of bridges, cathedrals, churches and gold-tipped towers is considered the fourteenth largest in the European Union. Rich in its historical heritage, it is the commercial and cultural center of the country.
The city was founded during the Roman era and flourished during the Gothic and Renaissance periods. Fertile soil, natural waterthe flows, resources and working population of Prague played a vital role in the city's early development. It also became the seat of two Roman emperors and therefore the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Prague later became an important city in the Habsburg Monarchy and its Austro-Hungarian Empire, and after World War I, the capital of Czechoslovakia. In 1993, since its collapse, the city has become the capital of the new Czech Republic.
Administrative divisions
The area of Prague is 496.1 sq. km. The main river Vltava runs through the city for 31 km with a maximum width of about 330 meters. A large number of islands have formed along it, such as the charming Kamp and Slavs, which are in the immediate vicinity of the National Theatre. Recently, they have become amazing venues for many cultural events.
The capital consists of 4 main areas where the population of Prague is concentrated:
1. Old Town with Old Town Square.
2. A new city with Wenceslas Square and the European Quarter.
3. Charles Bridge connects the eastern and western regions and is the most visited place that tourists love to explore while exploring the historical sights of the city.
4. West coast with medieval Hradcany castle.
The city also has 22 administrative districts and 112 cadastral territories.
Prague population
About 1.3 million people live in the capital of the Czech Republic. Most of the population consists of Czechs. Close to the centerthe towns are inhabited by Romanesque and Slovak communities in small groups. In addition, there are a large number of foreigners (Germans and Americans) in Prague who have come here to work.
It is important to note that almost 15 million tourists come to the capital every year to enjoy the stunning cityscapes, visit famous sights, taste delicious dishes and relax, take a break from the bustle of life, walking along the ancient streets that Prague is famous for. The official language is Czech, one of the most difficult Slavic dialects. However, in places where there is a large concentration of tourists, the service staff speaks German, Spanish and English.
Climate
Due to the fact that Prague is located in the center of Europe, it is characterized by experimental weather conditions. However, these changes add to the romantic appeal of the city.
Prague has a mild cold climate with significant rainfall throughout the year.
In winter, mercury in the thermometer reaches -5 degrees, and in summer the temperature fluctuates in the range of +20 … +35 degrees. Precipitation is moderate.
7 things to know about Prague
Prague is the city center that drives all tourists crazy. Before you visit this wonderful place, you should know a few interesting facts:
1. Perhaps the most famous landmark of the capital is the Astronomical Clock, which is located in front of the Old Town Hall, wherehundreds of visitors from all over the world.
2. According to the Guinness Book of Records, Prague is the proud owner of the largest castle in the world with numerous courtyards and ancillary buildings.
3. After the assassination of John Lennon in 1980, his image was painted on the wall opposite the French embassy. Since then, this place has become a real memorial to the famous musician, as well as a symbol of freedom of speech and non-violent rebellion.
4. The Czech Republic (Prague) is famous for producing the best beer, the population and visitors of which drink about 43 gallons of foam product per year.
5. The Prague International Marathon was founded in 1995 and has now become one of the most prestigious races in the world.
6. The Prague Spring International Music Festival, first held in 1946, regularly hosts concerts by well-known symphony orchestras.
7. The TV Tower is the tallest in the world, making it a surreal landmark in Prague.
Visa information for tourists
The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen area, so most European tourists do not need a visa to visit Prague. But many citizens of the CIS countries who want to visit its fabulous capital need to apply for a Schengen (short-term) visa to stay in the country for up to 90 days.
It is worth paying attention to the following facts:
1. A visa cannot be issued at the Czech border crossing points or at the Prague airport. You need to apply only to the visa centers of your city, with a certain list of documents.
2. Travelers with a visa must register with the police within 3 business days of arriving in the city.
