Prague: The Heart of Europe Beckons!
Before 1993, the Czech Republic and Slovakia were united as Czechoslovakia, a name many knew. Now, let's dive into the captivating charm of Prague, the crown jewel of the Czech Republic!
A City Steeped in History
- Did you know the Czech Republic spans roughly 78,000 sq km and is home to around 10.5 million people?
- The nation's roots trace back to the late 9th century.
- From 1526, it became part of the Habsburg Empire (Austria), and later, in 1867, the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
- Following World War I, the Czechs and Slovaks joined forces, birthing Czechoslovakia!
Prague's Miraculous Preservation
For over 1100 years, Prague has remained remarkably untouched by the ravages of war. While Europe endured immense destruction during World War II, Prague was largely spared. It even survived a bombing incident where nearly 100 British and American planes mistakenly targeted it instead of Dresden on February 14, 1945! Thankfully, the bombs landed in the outskirts, with the closest hit being the iconic Dancing House.
This fortunate preservation has gifted Prague with a stunning array of architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and modern, showcasing the rich tapestry of European civilization. The Jewish Quarter is another must-see.
The Prague Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning nearly 890 hectares and boasting around 2,000 national monuments. It's one of the largest urban ensembles in the world!
Green Oasis Amidst Ancient Splendor
Despite its rich history and countless monuments, Prague is surprisingly green. It boasts one of the highest ratios of green space per capita of any capital city globally, with 57% of its area covered in lush greenery. Imagine that!
Spanning over 500 sq km (around 20-30 km from end to end), Prague is home to only about 1.2 million people, making for a spacious and enjoyable urban experience.
Prague is often called the "Heart of Europe," partly because of its geography. In the past, it was also known as the "City of Gold" because of its wealth. The Czechs themselves call Prague the "City of a Hundred Spires" because of the many steeples adorning its buildings.
Little Hanoi in Prague: Exploring Sapa Market
There's a significant Vietnamese community residing in the Czech Republic – around 60,000 people, with approximately 15,000 in Prague alone! You'll find many Vietnamese stores and restaurants in the city center. Don't miss Sapa Market, a true "Little Hanoi"! Take Metro Line C to Kacerov, then Bus 113 to Sidliste Pisnice.
Must-See Prague Attractions: Get Ready to Explore!
- Prague Castle
- Mala Strana (Lesser Town)
- Charles Bridge
- Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
- Petrin Hill (with its miniature Eiffel Tower and Rose Garden)
- Josefov (Jewish Quarter)
- Paris Street
- Municipal House
- Wenceslas Square
- National Museum
And that's just the start! Prague has so much to offer. These are simply the spots you can't miss.
Local Nicknames: A Touch of Vietnamese Humor
The Vietnamese community in Prague has a knack for personifying landmarks! Charles Bridge is known as "Love Bridge," the Astronomical Clock is affectionately called the "Chicken Clock" (due to the golden rooster), and Old Town Square is often referred to as "Chicken Square!" Wenceslas Square, with its statue of a king on horseback, is naturally "Horse Square," and Holesovice Market, featuring a cow statue, is "Cow Market"!
Don't Forget the Beer!
No trip to Prague is complete without sampling the local beer! The Czech Republic boasts the highest per capita beer consumption in the world! Cheers!
Taste the Local Cuisine
Try the traditional tripe soup or smoked pork neck served with white bread and pickled cabbage. If Czech food isn't your thing, head to Sapa Market for a taste of Hanoi: pho, banh cuon, bun ca, bun cua, grilled duck… you name it!
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