Beauty is a very subjective matter, yet for so many experienced travelers, the Czech capital proves to be the perfect combination of breathtaking beauty and formidable national heritage. There are many arguments the local residents will throw at you when you ask them why their city is one of the most captivating European capitals to date.
Its geopolitical position provided this Bohemian urban gem with an opportunity to collect all the bits of the famous empires that ruled over it and embody its foundation in gold and marble. But you might be asking yourself: What makes Prague’s cultural heritage the most unique in the whole world? Let us find out in this overview of the Czech capital.
Jaw dropping cultural heritage and party possibilities
Stories about unforgettable Prague stag activities have reached far and wide. Even more famous are the microbreweries that hail from this city. This should not surprise you since the City of Hundred Spires holds the title as of one of the most alluring places to party long and hard.
Stories about the Prague nightlife and its booming clubbing scene are even the subject of many famous movies, like Eurotrip. However, what arguments state that this is really the most beautiful city in Europe or possibly the world? What is that very thing that you can find here and nowhere else that makes Prague claim the champion title?
For starters, Prague is home to the most unique combination of architectural heritage that you can find in the “old continent”. That means that the streets of Prague hold the special combination of all major epochs of architecture. Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau – these are just some of many notable styles that make all the other cities sigh with envy.
Nowhere else in the world can you find such an amazing well-preserved cultural phenomenon so remember to bring a sturdy leather travel backpack for your camera and capture those Instagram-worthy architectural photos and videos.
Another thing that made this phenomenon possible, which other European nations weren’t so lucky with, is the fact that the city was spared from the damages of World War II. The residents of Prague were careful enough not to destroy the things built from the previous rulers, too. Most of the other European cities were insensitively overwriting the heritage of the previous rulers in order to strengthen the presence of a new reign. But not here.
This is the most important fact that speaks in favor of such vivid surrounding that will stun you instantly once you set foot on Prague soil. The end of the second world war marked the time when most of the European heritage got destroyed in one way or another. Somehow, through political plots, this city was spared from the horrors of war which eventually gave its old-world shining glory that we can witness today.
Turbulent history that left its mark everywhere
Nothing can tell you more stories of this city as the calm Vltava river. She is home to a total of 18 bridges that represent one thousand years of history. This is the very reason why we also call Prague “the city of bridges.” Throughout history, just like anywhere else in the world, they were destroyed and rebuilt but one bridge stands as a testament to the glorious past like no other.
We are of course talking about Charles bridge that holds the famous title of the “most beautiful bridge in the world”. Construction started in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV and finished at the beginning of the 15th century. Just to think that millions of curious travelers come to witness the gorgeous baroque statues is reason enough to finally visit this city on your own.
Go straight ahead to Tower of the old City council, which was raised in 1364 as a part of the first historical building that was constructed in the area. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower from where you will have the best panoramic view of the medieval center of Prague.
It is the same spot where you will find the famous Prague Astronomical Clock located on the façade of the town hall, which dates back to 1410. It second most visited landmark for tourists who visit Prague.
A unique feeling that leaves on your soul
Another phenomenon that adorned postcards from this city for centuries is the number of colors implemented in its surrounding. In comparison to its European counterparts that are either gray from too much concrete or too green from the corrosive effects of time, this city is famous for its ancient red rooftops that create a stunning skyline sensation.
This might as well be the very reason why so many legendary painters found their greatest inspiration while painting in Prague’s charming streets.
The residents of this city were always well aware of these beautiful facts and they never let big companies take advantage of its charming appearance. You can’t find big brands and businesses poking your eyes from some old building since the preservation of the old-world charm has always been a top priority for the officials.
Culture has a great role in the tradition of a country like the Czech Republic. The National Theater of Prague is an iconic building in the history of the Czech Republic, and opera and dance shows are held here all year round.
But this city also has its modern side. The district of Nova Mesto in Prague, also known as the New Town or Place, extends into the center of the city outside the limits of the old medieval district. The heart of this neighborhood is the enormous square of Wenceslao, and in it, you must pay a visit to the prominent corners such as the Municipal House or the famous twisted Dancing House.
It is impossible to give a brief overview of this city and not to mention all the beautiful sites that you can explore. A weekend-long journey may change your life forever.
There are countless reasons which favor Prague’s title as “the most beautiful city in Europe” but there is only one definite way to find this out for yourself.
Witness the beauty of this city with your own eyes and soul! Once you finally come here, the only thing that we can guarantee is that you will wish to return again and again.
Oh, and there is also beer! The city has the best and most affordable beer you can find!
