Prague - A Visit to Remember

​I recently visited Prague.  Our stay at the Four Seasons was no less than perfect as our room overlooked the Vltava river and Charles bridge.  While there we met with a former middle Georgian, Kristi Brice, who has made her home in Prague and enjoys giving historical tours.  It is always nice to have an American tour guide that “speaks with our accent.”

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. Known as the "City of a Hundred Spires" due to its stunning skyline of churches and towers, Prague stands as one of Europe's most enchanting and well-preserved cities. With its cobbled streets, charming squares, and picturesque views of the Vltava River, it offers visitors a journey through centuries of history, architecture, and art.
Prague’s history dates back over a thousand years. Prague has witnessed major events in European history. It was once the seat of the Holy Roman Empire, and over the centuries, the city has been home to kings, emperors, revolutionaries, and artists.
The city's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and contains many examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Key landmarks like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square are highlights.

Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, dating back to the 9th century. It sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views of the Vltava River and Prague’s skyline. The castle complex includes several historical buildings, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, and the Golden Lane, where you can explore medieval houses and shops. The castle remains the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic.

The Old Town Square is in the heart of Prague, surrounded by historic buildings, including the Church of Our Lady and the Old Town Hall. Here, you can see one of the city’s most famous attractions: the Astronomical Clock. This medieval clock, installed in 1410, is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and one of the most stunning. Every hour, huge crowds gather to witness the bell and intricate movements of the clock. 

Prague is all about classical music, literature, and art. It was home to writers like Franz Kafka, whose works are synonymous with the city’s intellectual and philosophical history. The city also boasts a variety of museums, galleries, and performance venues. The National Theatre and State Opera host world-class performances, while the Prague National Gallery and Museum of Decorative Arts showcase Czech and international art.

​A trip to Prague wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Czech cuisine and the world-famous beer culture. Traditional dishes include svíčková (marinated beef in creamy sauce), knedlíky (dumplings), and goulash. The Czech Republic is known for its beer, and Prague is home to some of the best pubs in Europe, offering a variety of local beers. Whether it’s a classic Pilsner or a unique craft beer, beer lovers will find plenty to explore.  My favorite restaurant was the Kampa Park restaurant that overlooks the river and the Charles bridge.