Thursday 7 May 2009

Czech History - Background to Prague

Prague is the capital and also the largest city in the Czech Republic. Prague’s initial settlement was founded in 973 as a castle on the right, bank of the Vltava, this is now known as Vysehrad. A later castle was built on the opposite bank now known as Prague Castle.

In ancient times it was an important seat for trading and as a result merchants visited and settled from all Europe. The city flourished during the 14th century and became the third largest city in Europe. Many pieces of architecture from this period can be seen today such as the Charles Bridge, the Charles University and Saint Vitus Cathedral.

In 1335 Prague became the capital of the Holy Roman Empire.