A brief history of Prague
When you walk around the city of Prague you cannot fail to notice that it is a place drenched in history. The Czech capital has seen many rulers come and go, leaving the city with a unique, beautiful appearance. Before I first visited Prague, I had envisaged a city that might be bleak, a remnant of its Communist past. When you visit the city, you'll realise that this couldn't be further from the truth. Amazingly, the architecture of the city appears unscathed despite the problems faced by the people, notably during and since the Second World War. Listed below are a few key dates that will give you some idea of the history that surrounds the city. A walk through Prague truly is a walk through time. Around 870 AD: The foundation of the original Prague Castle. 10th century: The Vysehrad Castle was founded.The current Castle, built high on a hillside, dominates the city. Our Tip: Take a walk on the Charles Bridge after dark and look up at the beauty of the Castle complex. At night, the Castle, cathedral and their environs are lit, giving one of the most spectacular views imaginable. 1085: An important date in Prague's history. This is the year when the city became the residence of King Vratislav I, the first of the Bohemian kings. 1230: The Old Town was founded. This area of the city is breathtaking and a favourite with tourists.
1257: The Lesser Town was founded. 1338: The Old Town Hall was built. This remains one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, made famous by its astronomical clock. Crowds gather every hour, on the hour to hear the bells ring and watch the clock's figures dance, as they have done for hundreds of years. 1348: Charles University was founded, thus becoming the first such institution in the whole of Europe. Prague History continued - from the 14th century to the present day. Feature: Prague Guide | 