Prague
Prague is the capital and the largest city of the Czech Republic, with a population of 1,2 million and the largest area. The president’s place of residence and the most important state establishments are situated in the centre of Czech basin, where Prague has played the role of the most important city and centre of governmental power since the 9th century, when according to historic sources the first famous Premyslovec prince Borivoj settled down here. He moved his residence from nearby Levy Hradec onto the Vltava cape, where during the succeeding centuries the grand Prague Castle complex was built. Prague Castle is one of the symbols of the Czech statehood.
But the available evidence of settlements strategically located on the banks of Vltava River date back to the prehistoric period, when the place was an important intersection of far trade routes. Subsequently the medieval city underwent different stages of development and expanded to both sides of the Vltava until it acquired the form of today’s agglomerated metropolis, which occupies approximately 500km.
The most attractive part of Prague is of course its historic centre (protected by UNESCO), which makes it one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. Historically significant parts include Hradcany, Mala Strana, Stare and Nove Mesto which fascinate with its unique atmosphere and numerous cultural heritage sights (several thousands), for which reason Prague is often called “a city with one hundred towers”, “golden” and “mother of cities”.
The historical centre is surrounded by former suburbs, the so-called internal city (Karlin, Smichov, Vrsovice, Zizkov) which is mostly occupied by residential and industrial buildings. They are bordered by the so-called external city with residential zones and cottages (South city, South western city, Bohnice). Beyond this part, there is a protected area with forests and agricultural lands.
Along with the role of political and administrative centre Prague plays a dominant part in the realm of industry, transport, culture and education. No wonder that charming and mysterious Prague has often been used as a subject of artwork.