a capital city of the Czech Republic
lying at the heart of Europe on the
Vltava River, it is one of the continent's finest cities and a major Czech economic and cultural center. 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.

Enjoy a picturesque LIVE Prague Castle view.

Virtual view of Prague Castle above Vltava River

The physical attractions and landmarks of Prague are many. Among the finest is the Charles Bridge, which stands astride the Vltava River for more than 640 years. The winding course of the Vltava, with its succession of bridges and changing vistas, contrasts with the ever-present backdrop of the great 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 modern parks and housing developments, while the great 18th-century Baroque palaces have their own elegance and splendor. 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 center was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Settled in the tenth century, edged by an astonishing jumble
of Baroque and medieval structures, Old Town Square has been the natural place for visitors to the city to gravitate. This was the medieval town's main market place. Most of the houses are much older than they look, with Romanesque cellars and Gothic chambers hiding behind the pastel-colored Baroque and Renaissance fa�ades. Located on the Old Town Square, constructed more than 660 years ago, Old Town Hall with its extraordinary components of the Astronomical Clock is one of the many most popular tourists attractions of Prague as well as St. James Church only few steps away from the square.

In addition to Old Town Hall, the focal point of the square is the powerful Jan Hus Monument dedicated to the reformist cleric, and with its white stucco and undulating ornate fa�ade also the lovely St. Nicholas Church built in 1735.

Another addition to the UNESCO's World Heritage List is a picturesque small town called Cesky Krumlov.