Prague is a magnificent city located in the very center of Europe. Its beauty can be compared even with Paris. Its history has passed millennia: the city witnessed the proclamation of the independence of Nazi control, oppressive communism and capitalist democracy.
The capital of the Czech Republic is a vibrant and vibrant city, in the development of which tourism plays an important role. The people of Prague and visitors alike admire the stunning buildings and beautiful old streets. Each of the districts of Prague has its own characteristic atmosphere and unique charm.
Let's find out more about this wonderful city!
Prague: description and history
Prague is the majestic capital of the Czech Republic, which is located in the north-west of the country. The magical city of bridges, cathedrals, churches and towers with gold tips 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. The fertile soil, natural water flows, resources and the working population of Prague played a vital role in the early development of the city. It also became the seat of government for the 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 the First World War - the capital of Czechoslovakia. In 1993, from the moment of its collapse, the city became the capital of the new Czech Republic.
Administrative division
The area of Prague is 496.1 square meters. km The main river Vltava stretches through the city for 31 km with a maximum width of about 330 meters. Along it formed a large number of islands, such as the charming Camp and Slav, which is in close proximity to the National Theater. 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. The old city with the 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 like to study when familiarizing themselves with the historical sights of the city.
4. The West Bank with the medieval castle of Hradcany.
There are 22 administrative districts and 112 cadastral territories in the city.
Prague population
About 1.3 million people live in the capital of the Czech Republic. Most of the population consists of Czechs. Near the city center, small groups of Romanesque and Slovak communities live. In addition, in Prague there are a large number of foreigners (Germans and Americans) who arrived here to earn money.
It is important to note that almost 15 million tourists come to the capital every year to enjoy stunning cityscapes, visit famous sights, try delicious dishes and relax, relax from the hustle and bustle of life, walking along the old streets that Prague is famous for. The official language is Czech, one of the most complex Slavic dialects. However, in places where there is a large concentration of tourists, attendants speak 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 a romantic appeal to 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. Rainfall is moderate.
7 things you need to know about Prague
Prague is the city center that drives all tourists crazy. Before you visit this wonderful place, it is worth learning about several 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, where hundreds of visitors from around the world gather.
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 uprising.
4. The Czech Republic (Prague) is famous for producing the best beer, whose population and visitors drink about 43 gallons of foam product per year.
5. The Prague International Marathon was founded in 1995, and now has become one of the most prestigious races in the world.
6. The Prague Spring International Music Festival, held for the first time in 1946, regularly holds concerts by renowned symphony orchestras.
7. The television 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 is 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 obtain a Schengen (short-term) visa to stay in the country 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 specific list of documents.
2. Visa travelers must register with the police within 3 business days of arrival in the city.