The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, is a medieval city once called the “Golden City” and is said to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world! Among the globally renowned World Heritage Sites in Prague is the Historic Centre of Prague.
The Historic Centre of Prague, lined with historical buildings in different architectural styles built between the 11th and 18th centuries, is a popular World Heritage Site visited by tourists from all over the world. This time, let’s take a look at the highlights of this Czech World Heritage Site, the Historic Centre of Prague.
What is the Historic Centre of Prague?
The Czech Republic, where the Historic Centre of Prague is located, lies in the heart of Europe and is officially called the Czech Republic. On the map, it borders Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Poland. Its land area is a relatively small country. The Historic Centre of Prague, the World Heritage Site we’re introducing here, is located in the capital city of Prague in the northwest part of the country.
Currently, the Czech Republic has 12 World Heritage Sites in total. The Historic Centre of Prague was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1992, making it one of the earliest among the 12 to be registered.
Name: Historic Centre of Prague
Address: Prague, Czech Republic
How to access the Historic Centre of Prague
The nearest airport to the Historic Centre of Prague is Václav Havel Prague International Airport. If there are no direct flights from your country to the Czech Republic, it’s necessary to transfer at major European cities. Flights from surrounding European hubs to Prague are relatively frequent, with recommended transfer points including Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Amsterdam.
From the airport to the city, there are airport minibuses available.
Highlight ①: Prague Castle
When you think of Czech World Heritage Sites, many people picture Prague Castle. Within the World Heritage Site of the Historic Centre of Prague, the most famous architectural landmark is the towering St. Vitus Cathedral inside Prague Castle.
St. Vitus Cathedral may overturn any previous image you’ve had of a church. Its sheer scale and magnificence are breathtaking, leaving you momentarily speechless with its beauty. Despite being such a large structure, its delicate carvings and refined decorations are masterpieces worth seeing up close. Just visiting this World Heritage Site alone makes a trip to the Czech Republic worthwhile.
Prague Castle is said to be one of the largest castles in the world and is often featured in movies. It’s an unmissable highlight when visiting the Historic Centre of Prague.
Highlight ②: Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is an arched stone bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague. It is about 516 meters long and 10 meters wide, designed by German architect Peter Parler. Construction began in 1357 and was completed in 1402.
On both sides of the bridge stand 30 statues of saints, making it a favorite photo spot for tourists. Among these statues is that of Francis Xavier, known for introducing Christianity. The most famous statue, however, is that of St. John of Nepomuk. This statue is the only bronze one among the 30, making it stand out. It is said that touching the relief at its base brings good luck, which is why that part gleams golden.
Charles Bridge has completely different atmospheres during the day and at night, so it’s a place you’ll never tire of visiting while in Prague’s Historic Centre.
Highlight ③: Old Town Square
Prague’s Old Town Square sits at the heart of the Historic Centre of Prague and is always bustling with tourists. It is surrounded by buildings of various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Renaissance, and Gothic. At night, the square is illuminated, creating a stunningly beautiful scene that feels like walking through a movie set.
Among the buildings at Old Town Square, the most famous is Prague’s Astronomical Clock, located on the Old Town Hall. Known as the Prague Orloj, it is said to be the world’s oldest astronomical clock, with its earliest parts made in 1410. This 600-year-old clock still tells time today. Every day, at the same hour, its figures move in a charming mechanical performance. Be sure to see it in person!
Simply strolling among the buildings while gazing at them is enough to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Historic Centre of Prague.
◎ Summary
How was that? We introduced Prague’s Historic Centre, a Czech World Heritage Site also known as the “City of a Hundred Spires.” Now you can see why it has been called the “Golden City” and the “Magical City.”
Often referred to as an open-air museum of architecture, the Historic Centre of Prague is full of highlights, so it’s best to stay at least two nights to fully enjoy it. This Czech treasure attracts visitors from all over the world and is a World Heritage Site to visit at least once in a lifetime. Come and see Prague’s World Heritage Site with your own eyes—you’re sure to have a wonderful journey!