Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic. Because it was left largely untouched during the wars, it is one of Europe's most well-preserved cities. The city center is divided into five distinct areas, each with a number of awe-inspiring sights.
Old Town Square is the heart of Prague. This expansive square is surrounded by buildings from a variety of architectural eras: Boroque, Rococo, Gothic, Romanesque. Dominating the square are the Church of St. Nicholas; the Church of Our Lady before Týn; the Old Town Hall with its famous Astronomical Clock; and the Jan Hus Monument, a memorial to the religious reformer and Czech hero Jan Hus. Restaurants, hotels, and souvenir shops line the periphery of the square. Old Town is a good place to find Czech crystal and marionettes, two of the Czech Republic's most popular souvenirs. |