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Prague ( / ˈprɑːɡ / PRAHG; Czech: Praha [ˈpraɦa] ⓘ) [a] is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic [9] and the historical capital of Bohemia. Situated on the Vltava river, Prague is home to about 1.4 million people. The city has a temperate oceanic climate, with relatively warm summers and chilly winters.
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Prague, city, capital of the Czech Republic. Lying at the heart of Europe, it is one of the continent’s finest cities and the major Czech economic and cultural centre. The city has a rich architectural heritage that reflects both the uncertain currents of history in Bohemia and an urban life extending back more than 1,000 years.
The physical attractions and landmarks of Prague are many. Among the finest is the Charles Bridge (Karlův most), which stands astride the Vltava River. The winding course of the Vltava, with its succession of bridges and changing vistas, contrasts with the ever-present backdrop of the great castle of Hradčany (Prague Castle), which dominates the left-bank region of the city from behind massive walls set high on a hill. The narrow streets and little taverns and restaurants of the older quarters contrast with the broad sweep of Wenceslas Square and modern parks and housing developments, while the great 18th-century Baroque palaces have their own elegance and splendour. Seen from the surrounding hills, the many church towers make up a unique perspective, giving Prague its description as the “city of a hundred spires.” This architectural harmony was enhanced by post-1945 planning, which preserved the ancient core of the city as a major monument and carefully supervised all modern building. In 1992 the historic city centre was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
From its original small riverside settlements, Prague has spread over its hills, up river valleys, and along riverside terraces. The Prague metropolitan area covers 192 square miles (496 square kilometres).
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The city’s core, with its historic buildings, bridges, and museums, is a major centre of employment and traffic congestion. Around the core is a mixed zone of industrial and residential areas, containing about half the city’s population and nearly half its jobs. Surrounding this area is the outer city development zone, and beyond this is yet another zone of development containing new industrial areas, parks and recreation areas, and sports facilities. Finally, there is a belt of agricultural land and open countryside, where farms and market gardening projects satisfy Prague’s demand for food.
The lowest point in the city is 623 feet (190 metres) above sea level, and the highest point is 1,247 feet (380 metres) on White Mountain (Bílá hora). The climate of Prague is typically mid-continental, with temperatures there averaging 67 °F (19.3 °C) in July and 31 °F (−0.6 °C) in January.
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Prague has a homogeneous population. There is a small Slovak community, but the overwhelming majority of residents are Czechs. The city has a number of demographic peculiarities stemming mainly from the effects of World War II; there are more women than men, and a sizable proportion of the female population is past the age of fertility. The natural...
Prague, Czech Republic. There’s something extra-special about Prague that sets it apart from the other big cities of Europe. Whether it’s the Gothic cathedrals and Baroque palaces, or the more than 200 gardens scattered across the city, Prague offers a true escape from the modern world.
In 1989, after the Berlin Wall had fallen, and the Velvet Revolution crowded the streets of Prague, Czechoslovakia freed itself from communism and Soviet influence, and Prague benefited deeply from the new mood. In 1993, after the split of Czechoslovakia, Prague became the capital city of the new Czech Republic.
Things to Do in Prague, Czech Republic: See Tripadvisor's 1,946,862 traveler reviews and photos of Prague tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Prague. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Jan 21, 2022 · For a city that knows how to surprise, come to Prague. With tips on public transport and avoiding the crowds as well as health, safety and etiquette guidance, here's what you should know before going to Prague.
Mar 19, 2024 · Discover the best places to visit in this enchanting city with our list of the top attractions in Prague. On This Page: 1. Walk the Grounds of Prague Castle. 2. Stroll across Charles Bridge. 3. Discover Wenceslas Square. 4. Explore the Treasures at the National Museum. 5. Visit the Clementinum and the National Library. 6.
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