Prague
Prague is one of Europe's 'must see' capitals
- a central European gem of beauty and grandeur. With
a population of just one million, Prague is at the
crossroads of Europe, and has miraculously survived
unscathed through two world wars and numerous invasions.
The magnificent architecture of Prague spans more
than 1,000 years of history. Dominated by the
hilltop castle - Prazsky Hrad - the western bank of
the Vltava River is home to a number of beautiful
buildings and parks. The castle itself dates from
the 9th century, and has at its heart the magnificent
St. Vitus's Cathedral.
Crossing the impressive, statue-studded Charles
Bridge (pictured above), the Old Town is a focus of
tourist interest. This well-preserved medieval
enclave includes a small Jewish quarter, with its
own fascinating cemetery of 100,000 souls and a Holocaust
memorial to those slaughtered in the city by the Nazis.
A short stroll from the cemetery is the Old Town
Square, ringed with impressive buildings that
include the photogenic Church of Our Lady before Tyn
and the Old Town Hall. The fifteenth century astronomical
clock - and its mechanical figures - has amazed onlookers
for centuries. Modern-day visitors have also been
entertained by the flourishing jazz ensembles (pictured)
for which the city has become renowned.
Prague is a visitor-friendly city. The main
areas of interest are within a relatively compact
area, buses and trams are cheap and plentiful, and
the locals are friendlier than in many other European
countries. And yes it's true - the beer is dirt
cheap! Don't leave town without trying Pilsner
Urquell (recognised as the premier golden lager in
the world), and the original Budvar.
Further afield, Bohemia boasts picturesque towns
and hilltop castles. Karlstein is amongst the
most impressive, and is an easy excursion from Prague.
100 miles south of the capital is the arguably even
prettier medieval town of Cesky Krumlov.
Getting There
Czech
Airlines (CSA) offer daily flights from London,
as do British
Airways and Go.
There are excellent deals available throughout the
year on sites such as Last
Minute.
More Information
The Czech Tourist Board in London is at 95 Great
Portland Street, phone 020 7291 9925.
Also check out the Prague
City or Prague
iGuide website for additional information.
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