LANDMARKS 

Prague Castle - One of the largest castle complexes in the world, home to palaces, churches, and museums, and the seat of Czech rulers for over 1,000 years.
St. Vitus Cathedral - A stunning Gothic cathedral within Prague Castle, known for its stained glass, royal tombs, and the crown jewels.
Golden Lane - A charming narrow street of colorful houses once inhabited by castle guards and craftsmen (and briefly Franz Kafka).
Charles Bridge - Prague’s most famous bridge, lined with Baroque statues and offering iconic views of the castle and Old Town.
Old Town Square with Astronomical Clock - The historic heart of Prague, surrounded by Gothic and Baroque buildings and lively cafés.
Old Town Hall & Tower - A historic building complex with a tower offering panoramic city views.
Old-New Synagogue - Europe’s oldest active synagogue, dating back to the 13th century.
Jewish Cemetery - A hauntingly beautiful cemetery with layered tombstones due to centuries of limited space.
Petřín Hill & Observation Tower - A green park area with a tower inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering sweeping city views.
Dancing House - A modern, curving building nicknamed “Fred and Ginger,” contrasting with Prague’s historic architecture.
Vyšehrad - A historic fortress complex with ancient legends, a cemetery of famous Czechs, and river views.

PRAGUE & CZECHIA HISTORY IN A NUTSHELL

Prague is one of the oldest cities in Central Europe. It grew around a castle above the River Vltava and became a political, cultural, and trade center already in the Middle Ages. Thanks to limited wartime damage, much of its historic architecture has survived. The Czech Republic lies in the heart of Europe and has always been influenced by both Western and Eastern powers. Its location made it an important crossroads for trade, ideas, religion, and later political movements.

Before World War II
In the Middle Ages, the Czech lands were part of the Holy Roman Empire, and Prague was once its capital. In the 19th century, the city became a key center of Czech national revival. After World War I, Czechoslovakia was created in 1918 as a democratic state.

The 20th Century
During World War II, the country was occupied by Nazi Germany. After the war, Czechoslovakia fell under communist rule and became part of the Eastern Block. In 1968, the Prague Spring attempted to reform the system but was stopped by a Soviet invasion. In 1989, the peaceful Velvet Revolution ended communism.

Why Prague Matters
Prague tells the story of Europe’s struggles between democracy and dictatorship, freedom and control. Its history helps understand how political systems affect everyday life and how societies remember and overcome difficult periods.