Prague History: 14th century onwardsWe'll continue our look at some of the most important dates in the history of Prague by taking a look at the period from the 14th century to the present day: 1348: The New Town was founded. 1583: Rudolf II became the ruler of Bohemia, with Prague being the centre of his empire. 1618-1620: Uprising of the Czech nobles is put down. This would lead to a period of decline for much of the Czech culture and values. 1784: The four "towns" of Prague are united. These towns were Hradcany, Lesser Town, Old Town and New Town). This also marked the start of a period of revival for the Czech way of life. 1918: At the end of World War I, Czechoslovakia is declared as an independent state, with Prague as its capital. 1939-1945: During World War II the city was occupied by troops from Nazi Germany. The city was eventually "liberated" by the Red Army of the Soviet Union. 1945-1989: Prague, like the rest of Czechoslovakia, found itself under Communist rule. 1989: The so-called Velvet Revolution brings an end to Communist rule, with Vaclav Havel being elected President. 1990 saw the first free, democratic elections. 1993:Czechoslovakia splits into two separate states, with Prague becoming the capital city of the new Czech Republic. Slovakia is ruled separately from its capital, Bratislava. Our Tip: The Slovak capital is another beautiful city, which is well worth a visit. 2004:On 1 May 2004 the Czech Republic joined the European Union.
Prague History - the early years of the city. Feature: Prague Guide | 