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When it comes to rich cultural heritage, there are over 10 fascinating facts about Prague and unique charms that enchant both visitors and inhabitant. Visitors from all over the world are drawn to the capital of the Czech Republic because of its gorgeous architecture, rich past, and lively environment. Below, you’ll find 10 fascinating facts about Prague that we hope will both pique your interest and help you learn more about this great city.
Prague, often known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is rich in history because to its many well-preserved medieval buildings and charming, narrow lanes and is a lot more than its surface attractions suggest. There are so many mind-blowing facts about Prague, from its rich history to its exciting nightlife.
Interesting facts about Prague
Here are 10 interesting facts about Prague to consider if you’re making travel plans.
1. One of the world’s largest castles can be found in Prague
The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Prague Castle, which was founded in 880 by Prince Boivoj of the Premyslid Dynasty, as the biggest castle complex in the history of mankind. Its expansive 18 acres (70,000 square meters) include mansions, gardens, chapels, and cathedrals fit for a king or queen. There’s also the fact that it’s a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO.
2. There is an entire wall painted in honor of John Lennon
The Lennon Wall may be found right adjacent to the French Embassy in Prague’s main business sector. The original name for this structure was “Crying Wall,” because people came here to vent their anger and sadness at the authorities. However, John Lennon was the embodiment of independence for the city’s youth. People flocked here after his death in 1980 to pay their respects and honor his legacy. Its walls are still covered in uplifting poetry and words of peace and optimism.
3. There is rumor of a haunting bridge in Prague
Charles Bridge, Prague’s most well-known landmark, has a reputation for being haunted. Midnight is when the ghosts are said to make their appearance, according to urban legend. Strange things have been seen and heard, such as spirits leaping from the river, whispering voices, and even statues that seem to come to life. The bridge itself has a dark history as well. The Old Town Square was once the site of public executions, and the severed heads of those executed were displayed as a deterrent to would-be criminals by being left on a stick by the bridge.
4. A very narrow street can be found in Prague
Located in the historic district of Mala Strana in Prague, this narrow street branches off of U Luického semináe. It’s less than 50 centimeters (20 inches) wide, making it extremely cramped.
5. Café Louvre was the first “co-working space” in the Czech capital
This classy café, which first opened in the nation’s capital in 1902, was spacious enough to hold as many as 700 customers. However, there is one more unusual aspect to it. The Louvre Café doubled as a workplace. The telephone and writing space were utilized by the guests.
6. One of the oldest and most prominent colleges in the world is located in this city
Charles University is not just the most prestigious university in the Czech Republic. It’s also its first version. It was established in 1348 by Emperor Charles IV, the greatest monarch of the Bohemian Kingdom.
7. Europe’s oldest functioning synagogue in in Prague
In Prague, you can visit Europe’s oldest functioning synagogue. Altneuschul, or the Old-New Synagogue, was one of the earliest Gothic structures in Prague.
8. Prague Dancing House
There is a “Dancing House” in Prague. Since it appears to be a pair of dancers, its initial name was Fred and Ginger, after the famous performers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
9. Tourism in Prague
Prague attracts around 8 million annual visitors. More than 7 million of them are not native-born. The majority of tourists are German, followed by those from Slovakia, Poland, Russia, the United States, and China. More than 20 million foreign tourists visit the entire country each year.
10. Beer is a big deal in Prague
Recent studies have shown that Czechs consume approximately twice as much beer as Austrians do. Prague residents consume around 150 liters of beer annually, far more than all other nations in the world. Indeed, Pilsner’s birthplace also serves as its capital.
Historical facts about Prague
It is one of the best preserved European cities, giving tourists a rare opportunity to experience life in an earlier era. Let’s have a look at some of the most interesting historical facts about Prague, which will show you how this city influenced the world:
- Medieval Origins
- Charles IV and the Golden Age
- The Revolution of 1848
- The Defenestration of Prague
- Prague Castle
- The Legacy of Franz Kafka
- Prague Spring
- The Astronomical Clock
- The Velvet Revolution
- The Bohemian Crown Jewels
Cool facts about Prague
Below are cool facts about Prague:
- You can visit a beer spa.
- Karlovy Lázně is the home of central europe’s largest club.]
- Prague castle is the globe’s largest castle.
- The best views of the city are at the petrin tower.
- Prague residents drink the most beer per capita in the world.
- The world-famous charles bridge is actually haunted by ghosts, and there are many of them.
- Divoká árka is an urban woodland just a short distance from the city.
- Prague’s narrowest street is only 50 cm wide.
- In the sixteenth century, Prague was home to the world’s first café.
- It’s first post-communist metropolis to receive a Michelin star for its dining scene was Prague.
Fun facts about Prague
Find fun facts about Prague below:
- One of the city’s landmarks has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
- There are 10 major museums there, along with galleries, theaters, and movie theaters.
- It takes at least four hours to go from Berlin to Prague.
- Eighteen bridges cross the Vltava River.
- Prague is classified as an Alpha-global city.
- When considering all of Czechia, Prague stands head and shoulders above the rest.
- From Budapest to Prague, the trip takes roughly 7 or 8 hours.
- Many local specialties can be found at restaurants around the city.
- Rolling Stones funded Prague Castle lighting.
- The Vltava River, the country’s longest, passes right through the heart of Prague.
Quirky and Weird Facts about Prague
The following are quirky and weird facts about Prague
- There’s a myth that Hitler actually wanted to spare the Jewish neighborhood of Prague.
- There is no such thing as the “Man Hanging Out” (or “Zavěšený muž”). Visitors to Prague often think this bizarre sculpture depicts a real man attempting suicide.
- The inaugural ceremony of the Charles Bridge took place at 5:31 a.m. on July 9, 1357.
- The Torture Museum in Prague’s historic district provides a disturbing look into the grisly history of torture techniques used in the Middle Ages.
- The Piss sculptures depicting two bronze men urinating into a pool in the form of the Czech Republic.
- On Easter Monday in Prague, Czech lads go from home to home gently beating girls/women with ‘pomlázka’ whips to ward off illness and pessimism.
- Jan Hus burnt alive for heresy for criticizing the Catholic Church.
- Prague sculptor David Černy built the “Babies with bar code faces”
- The Petřín Lookout Tower offers a stunning perspective of the city from its 51-meter height, accessible via 299 stairs.
- The Prague Astronomical Clock strikes the hour, although not in the usual fashion.
