“Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. It is the 14th largest city in the European Union. It is also the historical capital of Bohemia.

“Prague has been a political, cultural, and economic centre of central Europe with waxing and waning fortunes during its 1 100 year existence. Founded during the Romanesque and flourishing by the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras, Prague was not only the capital of the Czech state, but also the seat of two Holy Roman Emperors and thus also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. It was an important city to the Habsburg Monarchy and its Austro-Hungarian Empire and after World War I became the capital of Czechoslovakia.

“Prague is home to a number of famous cultural attractions, many of which survived the violence and destruction of 20th-century Europe. Main attractions include the Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square with the Prague astronomical clock, the Jewish Quarter, Petřín Hill and Vyšehrad. Since 1992, the extensive historic centre of Prague has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

“The city boasts more than ten major museums, along with numerous theatres, galleries, cinemas, and other historical exhibits. An extensive modern public transportation system connects the city. Also, it is home to the Charles University, the oldest university in Central Europe.” (Wikipedia)

The travel bug has always been with me and in 1997 I had the opportunity to backpack for five weeks on my own in Europe at the age of 29. One of the first places I visited during this trip was a week in Prague and since then it has been “the most beautiful city in the world” in my heart. In June we returned to Prague for four days to visit friends and the visit just reaffirmed my conviction.

The history of Prague and how everything was kept immaculate astonish you.

A few of my favourites:

• To visit the first libraries of the world
• Sitting in the oldest working synagogue
• The street musicians
• The prominence of the Prague Castle
• The Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock
• Staying next to Strahov Monastery and hearing the bells
• The Vltava River and Charles Bridge
• City of a Hundred Spires
• City of great musicians

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Prague, grab it with both hands.

I hope to write more about Prague, so keep your eye on my blog.

Ronel van Zyl

Photography Ronel van Zyl
(My photos – Anton van Zyl)
BLOG ‑ http://ronelvanzyl.blogspot.co.uk/