• The Prague Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is the third oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still functioning.
• Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, covering an area of almost 70,000 square meters.
• Prague was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II, and the city suffered damage, but many historic buildings, including the Old Town Square, were spared.
• In 1989, the Velvet Revolution led to the peaceful overthrow of the communist regime in Czechoslovakia, a pivotal moment in Prague's modern history.
• The University of Prague, founded in 1348, is the oldest university in Central Europe.

Czech Music & Festivals

• Prague has long been celebrated as the “Conservatory of Europe,” a title earned through centuries of musical excellence. Legendary composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart had a special bond with the city—he even premiered Don Giovanni at the Estates Theatre in 1787, famously declaring, “My Prague understands me.” Equally revered are Czech national composers Antonín Dvořák, Bedřich Smetana, and Leoš Janáček, whose works continue to shape the country's musical identity. 

• The city is home to architectural gems like the Rudolfinum and the Municipal House, celebrated for hosting world-class orchestral performances. Beyond these grand venues, Prague's vibrant folk traditions endure in spirited dances like the polka and furiant, accompanied by instruments such as violins, bagpipes, and hammered dulcimers. 

• Each spring, Prague hosts its most prestigious cultural event — the Prague Spring Festival. Held annually from May to June, the festival was established in 1946 to commemorate the end of World War II. It opens with Smetana’s iconic symphonic cycle “Má Vlast” ("My Homeland") and draws classical music lovers from around the world to celebrate the enduring spirit of Czech music. 

Czech Cultural Clothing & Traditions

• Czech folk costumes, known as "kroje," are a significant part of cultural celebrations. These outfits vary by region but often feature embroidered blouses, colorful skirts, aprons, and decorative headpieces for women, while men wear embroidered shirts, vests, and trousers. These costumes are typically worn during festivals and special occasions. 

• Masopust Festival, Prague’s version of Mardi Gras, is celebrated before Lent. Participants wear masks and colorful costumes, parading through the streets with music, dancing, and traditional foods.  

• Prague’s fashion was often influenced by royalty and nobility. Medieval Prague saw elaborate costumes worn by the aristocracy. These included richly decorated velvet gowns, furs, and luxurious silks, often in the colors of the royal house. 

Prague Castle & St. Vitus Cathedral

• Spanning over 70,000 square meters, Prague Castle holds the title of the largest ancient castle complex globally. It encompasses a wide range of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque, reflecting its development over centuries. 

• Since its founding in the 9th century, Prague Castle has been a symbol of Czech history and power. It has served as the residence of kings, emperors, and now the President of the Czech Republic. 

• St. Vitus Cathedral, located within the castle complex, houses the Bohemian Crown Jewels, which are rarely displayed and are kept behind a door with seven locks. 

• Built Over Centuries, construction of St. Vitus Cathedral started in 1344 and wasn’t fully completed until 1929, nearly 600 years later! 

Charles Bridge

• Built in the 14th century under the reign of Charles IV, the bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It replaced the Judith Bridge, which had been destroyed by floods in 1342.  

• The bridge is adorned with 30 statues of saints and historical figures, added mainly in the 17th century. Among them is the statue of St. John of Nepomuk, who is said to bring good fortune to those who touch it. 

• The foundation stone of the bridge was laid in 1357 on the 9th day of July at 5:31am, creating the palindrome 135797531. This was in accordance with Charles IV’s belief in numerology and astrology for ensuring structural strength.  

Old Town Square & Prague Astronomical Clock  

• Founded in the 12th Century, the square has been a central marketplace since the 1100s and is surrounded by Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. The square is famous for its festive markets, drawing thousands of visitors every winter and spring. 

• Every hour in Prague’s Old Town Square, crowds gather to watch the clock, also known as Orloj, a 600-year-old astronomical clock installed in 1410, spring to life with its animated “Walk of the Apostles.” As the world’s oldest functioning astronomical clock, it blends medieval artistry with celestial mechanics, featuring rotating wooden Apostles and a bell-ringing skeleton representing the passage of time.  

• The lower dial of Prague’s Astronomical Clock is a circular calendar divided into 12 sections, each representing a month. These segments feature rural scenes like harvesting, sowing, or grape picking which depict medieval life and seasonal rhythms. Blending astronomy, art, and faith, the dial reflects how people in the Middle Ages understood and marked the passage of time. 

Czech Beverages

• The Czech Republic is world-famous for its Pilsner Urquell beer, which was first brewed in 1842 in the city of Plzeň. Known for its golden color and crisp flavor, Pilsner inspired countless imitations worldwide, but locals still proudly say nothing compares to the original.
• For something stronger, try Slivovitz brandy, a traditional plum spirit enjoyed for centuries. It’s often homemade, passed down through generations, and shared during celebrations. It is also known as the “national drink” of the Czech Republic.
• Another national specialty is Becherovka, an herbal liqueur from Karlovy Vary, often sipped as a digestif and celebrated for its unique blend of cinnamon, cloves, and herbs. To this day, the recipe remains a secret, which has been passed down through generations. 
• A local non-alcoholic favorite is Kofola, an herbal soft drink created in the 1960s as a Czech alternative to cola. Its less-sweet, spiced flavor makes it a nostalgic classic that remains popular today.

Traditional Czech Dishes

• A true national treasure is Svíčková na smetaně (tenderloin in cream sauce), served with dumplings, cranberry sauce, and a touch of whipped cream. This rich, comforting dish reflects true Czech hospitality.
• Hearty and rustic, Vepřové Koleno (pork knuckle) is slow roasted to perfection, often paired with mustard, horseradish, bread dumplings, and Czech beer for the ultimate feast.
• For something indulgent, locals love Smažený Sýr (fried cheese), a crispy, golden treat usually paired with tartar sauce. It is a classic Czech comfort food and can be found in most restaurants and even market stalls.  
• Another favorite is Řízek (schnitzel), a breaded and fried cutlet enjoyed in many Central European countries but made uniquely Czech when served with potato salad.
• Don’t miss the national classic Vepřo Knedlo Zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut), considered by many the ultimate Czech comfort dish.

Czech Desserts & Pastries

• Koláče (kolache) are soft pastries filled with fruits, cheese, or poppy seeds, traditionally baked for weddings and festivals as a symbol of good fortune. They are the national pastry of the Czech Republic. 
• A must-try street food is Trdelník, a sweet pastry grilled over an open flame, coated in sugar and cinnamon, and sometimes filled with ice cream. This is the perfect sweet treat for strolling through Prague’s Old Town.
• Czech Perník (gingerbread) has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. Spiced, fragrant, and often decorated, it remains a holiday staple.
• Another beloved treat is Bábovka, a marble bundt-style cake swirled with chocolate and vanilla, often served with coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.