Prague is one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Historic Prague (The Old Town, Lesser Town, and New Town) is well preserved and has been designated a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Historic Prague owes much of its dramatic architecture to the Holy Roman Empire, particularly to the reign of Charles IV during the Middle Ages.The Charles Bridge shown above (currently open but undergoing renovation), connects the Old Town (to the east) with the Lesser Town to the west. The view shown, looks along the bridge over the Vltava river towards Mala Strana (Lesser Town) and then uphill to Prague Castle and the St. Vitus Cathedral, a complex which dominates the city's skyline. Many of these attractions date from the 14th century when they were built byCharles IV, Holy Roman Emperor.
The Castle is a popular attraction and you should make time to see it, along with its palaces and the cathedral.
Consider taking a river cruise to see Prague's beautiful sights from the Vltava.
The Bridge is an attraction in itself and usually lined with performers during the day
The Old Town includes the famous Our Lady of Tyn church, as well as the equally famous City Hall Tower. Both attractions can be found on the Old Town Square.
The City Hall's clock tower is an elegant, "astronomy/zodiac-related timepiece that has become synonymous with the image of Prague. The clock dates from the 15th century and has an amazing movement that includes the 12 Apostles (doors above top clock), as well as an animated skeleton of Death that tolls the bell (right side upper-dial) in a dance with the three figures (representing sins) at various levels on the sides of the clock.
The Old Town Square and the Wenceslas Square (a grand boulevard really) in the New Town (southeast of the Old Town) are the two most popular meeting places in the city. The Old town is filled with colorful buildings, good restaurants, and is quite interesting. Head to the New Town for fine shopping, leading hotels, the Central Train Station and the National Museum.
