What is the Capital of Czech Republic? Prague
Capital City of Czech Republic: Prague (Praha)
City Overview
Prague, known as Praha in Czech, is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. Situated in the central-western part of the country, Prague is one of the most historically and culturally significant cities in Europe. Founded around the 9th century, the city has grown into a vibrant metropolis and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
Prague has been the historical capital of various kingdoms, most notably the Kingdom of Bohemia, and it has been the capital of the Czech Republic since the country’s establishment in 1993. The city is often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires” due to its impressive skyline filled with gothic towers, church steeples, and historical buildings. Prague also enjoys a reputation as a hub for education, science, and politics, with numerous universities and research institutions located in the city.
The Vltava River flows through Prague, dividing the city into two parts: the historic Old Town (Staré Město) and the modern New Town (Nové Město). The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural heritage. Prague is a major European tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year for its beauty, history, and the wealth of cultural experiences on offer.
Area: 496 km²
Population: Approximately 1.3 million (2023)
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1:00 (Central European Summer Time, UTC +2:00)
Highest Mountain: Sněžka, located in the Krkonošsko-jesenická Highlands, with an elevation of 1,603 meters (5,259 feet)
Longest River: Vltava River, running through the heart of Prague, is the longest river in the Czech Republic at 430 km (267 miles).
Prague is also a significant cultural center in Europe, hosting a range of museums, art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. It has long been known for its contributions to classical music, especially through composers like Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana.
Major Landmarks
Prague boasts a wealth of iconic landmarks, many of which reflect the city’s centuries of history and architectural heritage. Some of the most famous include:
1. Prague Castle
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) is the largest ancient castle in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been the seat of the Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over 1,000 years. Today, the castle complex houses the Czech Crown Jewels, the Czech President’s Office, and several important museums. Its most iconic features are the St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane.
2. Charles Bridge
The Charles Bridge (Karlův most), built between the 14th and 15th centuries, is one of Prague’s most famous landmarks. Spanning the Vltava River, it connects the Old Town with Prague Castle. The bridge is adorned with 30 statues of saints and offers stunning views of the river and the city’s historic architecture.
3. Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
The Old Town Square is the heart of Prague’s historic district. It is surrounded by colorful Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings. The square is home to the famous Astronomical Clock (Prague Orloj), which dates back to the 15th century. Every hour, tourists gather to watch the clock’s mechanical procession of apostles.
4. Wenceslas Square
Located in the New Town (Nové Město), Wenceslas Square is the site of many historic events in Czech history, including demonstrations and celebrations. The square is named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of the Czech people. Today, it is lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
5. The Jewish Quarter (Josefov)
The Jewish Quarter in Prague is home to several important landmarks, including the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Museum. The cemetery, which dates back to the 15th century, is one of the oldest and most preserved Jewish burial sites in Europe. The Spanish Synagogue and the Pinkas Synagogue are also major highlights of the district.
6. Vyšehrad
Vyšehrad is a historic hilltop fort overlooking the Vltava River. It is one of the oldest settlements in Prague, offering spectacular views of the city. The Vyšehrad Castle and the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul are located here, and the site is also known for the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where many famous Czech personalities are buried.
7. Petřín Hill and Lookout Tower
For panoramic views of Prague, Petřín Hill is the place to go. The hill is home to the Petřín Lookout Tower, a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower. Visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city, especially at sunset.
Climate Overview
Prague has a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons: cold winters, warm summers, and mild spring and autumn months. Winters can be snowy and cold, while summers are typically warm but not excessively hot.
Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days (Avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1°C | 20 | 3 |
| February | 0°C | 15 | 5 |
| March | 4°C | 25 | 8 |
| April | 9°C | 40 | 10 |
| May | 14°C | 50 | 11 |
| June | 18°C | 60 | 12 |
| July | 21°C | 70 | 13 |
| August | 21°C | 65 | 12 |
| September | 16°C | 50 | 10 |
| October | 9°C | 40 | 7 |
| November | 3°C | 35 | 4 |
| December | -1°C | 20 | 3 |
Other Cities as Capital in the History of Czech Republic
Olomouc (Until 1198)
Before Prague became the capital of the Czech lands, Olomouc was the seat of the Moravian Margraves and a major religious center. It was the capital of the Margraviate of Moravia until 1198, when the seat of power shifted to Prague.
Prague (1198–Present)
Since 1198, Prague has remained the political, cultural, and economic heart of the Czech lands, serving as the capital during the reigns of the Bohemian Kings, the Habsburgs, and in modern times as the capital of Czechia (Czech Republic) following its establishment in 1993 after the split from Slovakia.
Country Facts
General Information about Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, often called Czechia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. Known for its medieval towns, castles, beer culture, and stunning landscapes, the Czech Republic has a rich history, having been part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechoslovakia, and eventually becoming an independent republic in 1993. The country is famous for its beer culture, with numerous local breweries and beer festivals.
- Population: Approximately 10.7 million (2023)
- Area: 78,866 km²
- Largest City: Prague
- Currency: Czech koruna (CZK)
- Official Language: Czech
- ISO Country Codes: CZ (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), CZE (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
- National Anthem: “Kde domov můj”
- Independence: January 1, 1993 (after the dissolution of Czechoslovakia)
- Government: Parliamentary Republic
The Czech Republic is part of the European Union, the Schengen Area, and NATO. It has a high-income economy and is known for its strong industrial base, particularly in automobile manufacturing, engineering, and information technology. Prague continues to be a global city with a blend of ancient history and modern development, and it remains a central player in the economic and political life of Central Europe.
