The magical city of bridges, cathedrals, gold-tipped
towers and church domes, whose image has been mirrored in the
surface of the Vltava river for more than ten centuries. Prague
is also a modern European metropolis full of energy, music,
and art.
It's a city of contrasts: Serene green isles
in the river and peaceful parks draping the city's seven hills
are just steps away from the architectural treasures and bustling
street life of the city center. Prague's atmosphere is both
intimate and romantic, and quite impossible to forget once you
visit.
During a walk through the city, you will quickly
discover that the history of European architecture has left
behind splendid representatives of its various periods and styles.
There are Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist
buildings, as well as various neo-historic styles and Art Nouveau.
Prague is also a verdant city. The hills below
the Prague Castle, for example, have been shaped by Baroque
architects who combined splendid palatial buildings with beautiful
formal gardens full of pavilions and arbors.
Fifteen large bridges accent the panorama of
Prague. Fourteen span the river Vltava, one bridges the vast
Nusle valley. The oldest and the most valuable bridge was built
in 1357 and bears the name of its founder, the Emperor Charles
IV. You cannot miss it when strolling along the Royal Way, the
famous coronation route of Czech kings connecting the Old Town
with the Prague Castle.
One of the most breath-taking, as well as photogenic,
views of the Castle opens up from the very head of Charles Bridge.
The Castle panorama features just about all the historic architectural
styles; it’s not an exaggeration to say that you are looking
at a thousand years’ worth of European architecture.
The islands in the Vltava offer entirely different
views of the city. Although these small islands are not very
remarkable geographically, their greenery plays an important
part in city life. Amidst the urban bustle of the centre, these
islands are welcome oases of calm, perfect for impromptu relaxation.
The Czech metropolis abounds in theatres, concert
and exhibition halls, museums and galleries. Prague truly offers
something for everyone, and each of its many faces has its own
special charm.
http://www.czechtourism.com/index.php?lang=3
