Prague: City of a Hundred Spires... and still the Mother of Cities
I would like to introduce you to our capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague. And why now? On January 12, 2026, when Prague was enveloped in a silent blanket of snow, I decided to capture its winter beauty. A moment not seen every day. Prague doesn't receive snow automatically; it seems it has to earn it first.
This walk through the snowy city resulted not only in a collection of photographs but also a short video montage, in which I tried to capture Prague in motion. As it was that day. Calm, cold, yet incredibly impressive.
But before I headed back home, the weather decided to intensify. It started to rain, and the rain immediately froze. The coats of passers-by were covered in ice, and I was no exception; the cable leading from my chest bag to my phone was encased in ice in moments. It was interesting that the ice hardly stuck to my coat, while small details froze instantly.
It was cold, quiet, rain, and snow... and yet beautiful. And that's why I want to tell you about Prague.
If you are interested in Prague, sit back, feel free to make some tea. This post will not be short, but it is divided into chapters, just like Prague itself, which always has something to tell.
Filmed on iPhone 16 Pro in 4K quality. Light artifacts may appear in the footage at times, which I will try to address in the future using lens filters. I would appreciate your understanding. I am just getting familiar with the YouTube scene, so the video may not be entirely professional. However, it is all the more authentic.
Prague, a Beauty Among Cities
Perhaps every Czech, and I dare say every European, knows Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic, a city with deep roots and rich history, which was part of Austria-Hungary and later became the capital of Czechoslovakia. Today, Prague is one of the most important cities in the European Union and is home to over a million inhabitants.
It stretches along the Vltava River, which gives it a unique atmosphere, and although it is an independent territorial unit, geographically it lies in the middle of the Central Bohemian Region. Prague has been forming into its current form for over eleven centuries, and each of them has left its mark.
As a historical metropolis, it was the capital of the Bohemian Principality, the Bohemian Kingdom, and also the seat of the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. It played a significant role in Czech history and in the period of the religious and reform movement, which influenced all of Europe.
Prague is literally a city of monuments. Here we find Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square with its Astronomical Clock, the mysterious Josefov, romantic Petřín, and historic Vyšehrad. Each of these places tells its own story and together they form a city that certainly deserves its nickname beauty of cities.
Nicknames and the Origin of the Name Prague
Do you know what else our Prague is called? Not only "the City of a Hundred Spires," but also Mother of Cities, Golden Prague, the Heart of Europe, the Rome of the North... and that's just a small list. Each of these names tells something about its beauty, significance, and history that Prague has built over centuries.The origin of the city's name itself is very interesting. Originally the city was called Praga, and only in the High Middle Ages did a change occur: the letter "g" transformed into "h", giving rise to the current form Praha.
The name was first recorded in the travelogue of the Arab merchant Ibrahim ibn Yaqub sometime in the 960s, where it was transcribed as Frága. However, history is not entirely unambiguous, and there are several theories about the origin of the name. The most commonly mentioned one derives from "práh" (threshold), referring to the river thresholds that had to be crossed, or from "pražit" (to roast/scorch), an Old Czech term associated with felling and burning a forest when founding a settlement.
Prague has thus carried and still carries epithets and names that reflect its significance, beauty, and strategic location, and that is precisely what makes it one of the most fascinating cities in Europe.
More Details About Prague
In the video above, you can explore various places in Prague from Old Town Square to Prague Castle. Every corner of the city hides precious nooks and traces of history left behind by generations. Nevertheless, I will not turn this article into a scientific historical analysis; rather, it's a quick overview to introduce you to the city's atmosphere.
Did you know that as of 2026, Prague hosts 89 foreign embassies? And its international importance doesn't end with diplomacy; the city has partner connections with twenty world metropolises and regions, for example, with Berlin, Brussels, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Nuremberg, Paris, Vienna, but also with American cities such as Chicago, Miami-Dade County, and Phoenix. Prague also maintains partnerships with Seoul, Taipei, Kyoto, and Tbilisi. Moreover, it is a founding member of the Pact of Free Cities, along with Bratislava, Budapest, and Warsaw; subsequently, more than twenty other cities from around the world joined this pact.
Historically, Prague has always played a strategic role. During the time of Austria-Hungary (1867-1918), it was a key economic, cultural, and political center of the Czech lands and one of the most important cities of the entire monarchy. It was an industrial heartland; mechanical engineering and heavy industry developed in the vicinity of Vysočany, Libeň, and Smíchov. Companies like Ringhoffer (wagons) and ČKD supplied products not only to the entire empire but also worldwide.
Politically, Prague was the seat of provincial self-government, the Bohemian Land Diet, and other offices, even though the main center of the monarchy was Vienna. In the 19th century, Prague became the focal point of the Czech national revival and a cultural and educational center. It was unique for its bilingualism and the division of institutions; there were Czech and German universities, technical schools, and other schools. During this period, the dominant features that still form the face of the city today emerged: the National Theatre, the National Museum, the Rudolfinum – buildings that demonstrated the advanced level of the Czech nation.
The modernization of the 19th century brought about the sanitation of Josefov and the construction of new districts in the Art Nouveau style, which gave Prague a modern European character that we still admire today. And Prague also has its legends and secrets, which I will tell you about below.
Did you know that as of 2026, Prague hosts 89 foreign embassies? And its international importance doesn't end with diplomacy; the city has partner connections with twenty world metropolises and regions, for example, with Berlin, Brussels, Frankfurt am Main, Hamburg, Nuremberg, Paris, Vienna, but also with American cities such as Chicago, Miami-Dade County, and Phoenix. Prague also maintains partnerships with Seoul, Taipei, Kyoto, and Tbilisi. Moreover, it is a founding member of the Pact of Free Cities, along with Bratislava, Budapest, and Warsaw; subsequently, more than twenty other cities from around the world joined this pact.
Historically, Prague has always played a strategic role. During the time of Austria-Hungary (1867-1918), it was a key economic, cultural, and political center of the Czech lands and one of the most important cities of the entire monarchy. It was an industrial heartland; mechanical engineering and heavy industry developed in the vicinity of Vysočany, Libeň, and Smíchov. Companies like Ringhoffer (wagons) and ČKD supplied products not only to the entire empire but also worldwide.
Politically, Prague was the seat of provincial self-government, the Bohemian Land Diet, and other offices, even though the main center of the monarchy was Vienna. In the 19th century, Prague became the focal point of the Czech national revival and a cultural and educational center. It was unique for its bilingualism and the division of institutions; there were Czech and German universities, technical schools, and other schools. During this period, the dominant features that still form the face of the city today emerged: the National Theatre, the National Museum, the Rudolfinum – buildings that demonstrated the advanced level of the Czech nation.
The modernization of the 19th century brought about the sanitation of Josefov and the construction of new districts in the Art Nouveau style, which gave Prague a modern European character that we still admire today. And Prague also has its legends and secrets, which I will tell you about below.
Legends of Old Prague
Prague is not just a beautiful place full of monuments; it is also a city full of stories, myths, and legends that have been passed down for hundreds of years and still attract the imagination of visitors and locals alike. Here are three of the most famous Prague legends worth knowing.
Libuše, the Princess who Saw Prague
According to an old legend, Libuše was a wise and prophetic princess who lived on Vyšehrad and became the leader of the Czech tribal community. It was she who, according to the legend, predicted the foundation of the city when she stood above the Vltava and spoke words about a great city whose glory would touch the stars and pointed to the place where Prague would one day arise.
Libuše further explained the city's name: officials found a countryman cutting "prahy" (thresholds), and so they named the new city Praha.
This legend is one of the oldest myths about the city's founding and symbolizes wisdom, faith, and the beginnings of the Czech state.
According to an old legend, Libuše was a wise and prophetic princess who lived on Vyšehrad and became the leader of the Czech tribal community. It was she who, according to the legend, predicted the foundation of the city when she stood above the Vltava and spoke words about a great city whose glory would touch the stars and pointed to the place where Prague would one day arise.
Libuše further explained the city's name: officials found a countryman cutting "prahy" (thresholds), and so they named the new city Praha.
This legend is one of the oldest myths about the city's founding and symbolizes wisdom, faith, and the beginnings of the Czech state.
The Golem, Guardian of the Jewish Quarter
One of the most famous Prague myths is associated with the Jewish Quarter and Rabbi Judah Loew in the 16th century. According to legend, he created the Golem, a giant clay monster, to protect the Jewish inhabitants of Prague from persecution.
The Golem was brought to life using Kabbalistic rituals, and the rabbi inscribed the Hebrew word "emet" (truth) on its forehead. As the legend goes, the Golem was strong and willing to help, but eventually became dangerous and had to be "put back to sleep."
Today, the Golem is a symbol of mysterious and mystical Prague, which connects history with the magical atmosphere of the old ghetto.
One of the most famous Prague myths is associated with the Jewish Quarter and Rabbi Judah Loew in the 16th century. According to legend, he created the Golem, a giant clay monster, to protect the Jewish inhabitants of Prague from persecution.
The Golem was brought to life using Kabbalistic rituals, and the rabbi inscribed the Hebrew word "emet" (truth) on its forehead. As the legend goes, the Golem was strong and willing to help, but eventually became dangerous and had to be "put back to sleep."
Today, the Golem is a symbol of mysterious and mystical Prague, which connects history with the magical atmosphere of the old ghetto.
Karlův most, vejce, magická čísla a mocné oči kamenů
Charles Bridge is one of the city's most iconic structures, and several legends are associated with it. The most famous tells that during the construction of the bridge, Emperor Charles IV and his builders used eggs in the mortar to make it stronger and more durable.
Another legend concerns the magical date and time of the laying of the first stone: July 9, 1357, at 5:31 AM, which forms a palindrome (1-3-5-7-9-7-5-3-1). According to superstition, this arrangement of numbers was meant to bring the bridge luck, strength, and protection for centuries.
And when you cross Charles Bridge today among hundreds of statues and thousands of tourist footsteps, you can imagine that every stone remembers the stories of people, kings, and pilgrims who once walked there before you.
Other Places in Prague
Let's look at other interesting places in Prague that you can glimpse in the video or just hear about. Every corner of the city has its own story and atmosphere, and that's precisely why they are worth discovering, whether by walking, photographing, or simply dreaming over a map.
National Museum
The National Museum stands at the top of Wenceslas Square and is one of the most important Czech museums. The building, constructed in the 19th century, is a monumental work in itself. Architect Josef Schulz gave the museum an impressive Neo-Renaissance face that dominates the upper part of the square. Inside, you will find rich collections of natural sciences, history, and art that document the Czech past. It is a place where the history and culture of the Czech Republic literally touch.
National Theatre
A symbol of Czech culture and national pride. The National Theatre on the Vltava embankment is a place where Czech drama, opera, and ballet have been performed since the 19th century. Its creation is linked to the Czech national revival; the people of Prague collected the money themselves for its construction so that the theatre would truly be "National." The architecture is a beautiful combination of Renaissance and Neo-Baroque, and the interiors, full of paintings and sculptures by Czech artists, underline the theatre's importance as a cultural center.
Charles University
The oldest university in Central Europe. Charles University was founded in 1348 by Charles IV. It is located in the historical center of Prague, originally with its main buildings near Old Town Square and surrounding streets. It was a place of education for nobles and clergy and remains the academic heart of the city today. A walk around its campus transports you back to the Middle Ages when the intellectual elite of the Czech state was formed.
Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge connects the Old Town and the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) across the Vltava river and is one of Prague's most famous icons. Construction began in 1357 under the reign of Charles IV and was completed in the early 15th century. The bridge is decorated with statues of saints that were added gradually, and every stone carries centuries of history, from processions and celebrations to wars and floods. Legends about eggs in the mortar and the palindromic date of laying the first stone add to its mysterious atmosphere.
Old Town Square
The heart of Prague, Old Town Square is a place where history and the present meet every day. Here you will find churches, ancient houses, the Astronomical Clock, and numerous cafes where time has stood still. The square originated in the 12th century as a main marketplace and continues to serve as a center for culture, celebrations, and demonstrations. A walk through the square is a journey to the present day.
The Astronomical Clock (Orloj)
The Old Town Astronomical Clock is one of the oldest functioning astronomical clocks in the world, located on the Old Town Hall. The first mentions date back to 1410, and its main creator was the clockmaker Mikuláš of Kadaň. The clock displays solar and lunar time, zodiac signs, and planetary movements, and every full hour cycle is accompanied by a procession of the Apostles (see the video above at 3:49 minutes), which attracts tourists from all over the world. It is a true combination of technical mastery and Gothic beauty.
St. Vitus, Wenceslas, and Adalbert Cathedral
The cathedral towers over Prague Castle and is the most important church in the Czech Republic. Its construction began in 1344 under Charles IV and was only completed in the 20th century. Inside, you will find royal tombs, the crown jewels, and magnificent stained glass windows. It is a symbol of Czech statehood and a place where history and spirituality merge in one monumental space.
Church of the Holy Saviour (St. Salvator)
The Church of St. Salvator is located in the Clementinum complex, a Baroque masterpiece in the heart of the Old Town. Built in the 17th century as part of the Jesuit college, it is now part of the university space. Inside, you will find magnificent Baroque decorations, frescoes, and a historical atmosphere that transports you to a time when Prague was a center of learning and ecclesiastical life.
Letná
Letná is a vast park and viewing platform above the Vltava River. It is an ideal place for walks, sports, and picnics, offering a panoramic view of Prague. Historically, Letná was used as a site for fairs, celebrations, and military exercises; today it is a symbol of the city's peace and beauty.
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
This Baroque church stands by Charles Bridge and is part of the former monastery of St. Francis. Built in the 17th century, you can see beautiful frescoes and statues of saints inside. The church is also frequently used for music concerts, as the acoustics of the space are truly exceptional.
Old Town Bridge Tower
This Gothic tower guards the entrance to Charles Bridge from the Old Town and is one of the most beautiful medieval structures in Prague. It was built in the 14th century and served not only as a defensive tower but also as a symbol of urban prestige. Walk under it and enjoy the view of the Old Town and the Vltava; every stone tells a piece of history.
Pinkas Palace
Pinkas Palace stands in the Jewish Quarter and is now part of the Jewish Museum. Built in the 16th century, its most famous part is the memorial hall for victims of the Holocaust, where the names of Czech Jews are inscribed. The palace combines Renaissance and Baroque elements and commemorates both the dark and glorious sides of the city.
Čertovka (The Devil's Canal)
Čertovka is a small, quiet canal in Malá Strana, often referred to as "Prague Venice." A walk around Čertovka transports you to the idyll of old Prague, where the water winds between historical houses. It is also known from the film ↗ “Merry Christmas, Octopus”, where it adds a fairy-tale atmosphere to the city.
Petřín
Petřín is a sprawling hill and park in the center of Prague, known for its observation tower, mirror maze, and flower beds. The history of Petřín dates back to the Middle Ages, when it served as a royal orchard and a place for rest. Today it is an ideal spot for walks, picnics, and photos with a view of the city.
Nebozízek Funicular
The funicular to Petřín, known for its stop Nebozízek, connects the lower part of the park with the top of the hill, allowing for a comfortable ascent. For tourists, it is a great way to enjoy a panoramic view of Prague without the tiring uphill walk. Historically, the funicular was opened in the 19th century and remains popular to this day.
Church of St. Nicholas
This Baroque church in Malá Strana is one of the most beautiful in Prague. Built in the 17th-18th centuries, you will be enchanted by the frescoes, statues, and rich decoration inside. The church is still active today, hosting masses, concerts, and celebrations, and is a symbol of the city's religious and cultural tradition.
Church of St. Thomas
The Church of St. Thomas stands in the Old Town (Lesser Town area) and its history dates back to the 13th century. It is associated with the Protestant movement and significant musicians such as Jakub Jan Ryba. Inside, you will find Gothic elements, frescoes, and musical history that give the church a unique character.
Wallenstein Palace
Wallenstein Palace is located in Malá Strana and is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. It was built for Albrecht von Wallenstein in the 17th century and now houses the Czech Senate. The palace is surrounded by the beautiful Wallenstein Garden, where you can find statues, fountains, and quiet nooks, ideal for a walk between history and greenery.
Golden Lane
Daliborka Tower
Daliborka is a medieval tower at Prague Castle that served as a prison. It is famous for the story of the prisoner Dalibor, who played the violin even in prison. Today, the tower attracts visitors with its Gothic details and historical story that recalls the dark side of the castle.
White Tower
The White Tower is a tall Renaissance tower that originally served as a watchtower and belfry. It offers a view of Prague Castle and the surrounding city, and is a symbol of urban architecture that combines functionality and beauty.
New and Old Provostship
The Old and New Provostship are located within the Prague Castle complex and served as residences for ecclesiastical dignitaries. The buildings are beautifully preserved and show how architecture and the lives of the clergy changed over the centuries.
Basilica of St. George
St. George's Basilica is the oldest surviving Romanesque structure at Prague Castle. It was founded in the 10th century and is a symbol of early Czech statehood. Inside, you will find historical tombs of the Přemyslid dynasty and ecclesiastical decorations that recall the basilica's importance in the spiritual and political life of Prague.
Prague Castle
Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world, the seat of Czech monarchs, presidents, and church dignitaries. Its history dates back to the 9th century, and over time, St. Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane, various palaces, gardens, and courtyards were established, each with its own atmosphere—from the Lower Deer Moat to the Ball Game Hall, to the third courtyard with the obelisk and the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The Castle Well, Fountain, and other details give the complex its unique character.
Hradčany Square
Hradčany Square is the central space of the Castle District, connecting Prague Castle with the rest of the city. The square's history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it served as a marketplace and a site for celebrations. Today, it is surrounded by palaces, churches, and significant buildings, and every step here carries a piece of history and the nobility of old Prague.
Church of St. Nicholas (Hradčany)
The Church of St. Nicholas in Hradčany is a Baroque gem, built in the 18th century. It is known for its rich decoration, frescoes, and magnificent dome. The church is often used for classical concerts because its acoustics are truly unique.
Church of Our Lady Victorious
This church is located in Malá Strana and is famous for the statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague, which attracts pilgrims from all over the world. The church was built in the Baroque style in the 17th century, and its atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual, contrasting with the hustle and bustle of the city.
Schönborn Palace and Garden
Schönborn Palace stands in Hradčany and is a typical example of a Baroque noble residence. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which invites quiet walks and views of Prague Castle and the city below. Today, it houses the U.S. Embassy, so the palace's historical elegance also serves as a site for modern diplomacy.
Lobkowicz Palace
Lobkowicz Palace is located at Prague Castle and is one of the few Renaissance palaces that have retained their original character. Inside is the Lobkowicz Family Museum, where you can find collections of musical instruments, portraits, and historical documents, including interesting details about the lives of Czech nobility.
And others...
Of course, Prague has many more places to discover, such as Wenceslas Square, the Statue of St. Wenceslas, and plenty of hidden alleys and corners that we haven't listed here. Both the video and the article provide only a selection of the most interesting things you can see and learn about.
Prague is endless and always has something new to surprise you. If you are interested in more places and stories from this city, follow my blog, YouTube channel, or Instagram. In the future, I will focus on other locations and show you how everything is connected and how history blends with today.
In Conclusion?
I hope I have at least slightly introduced you to the places you can glimpse in the video and supplemented them with photographs. Prague is a city where you never get bored. From the Zoo and Botanical Garden, through the parks and Wild Šárka, to the cultural and historical monuments.
This metropolis offers legends, magic, history, and modern hustle, shopping centers, and a life energy that will engulf you. I believe that you, too, will continue to discover Prague, piece by piece.
If you liked the article and the video, don't forget to follow me on Instagram, where I will gradually add more photos from this walk and much more.
I wish you a pleasant day and beautiful discoveries in Prague!
This article is a rough summary of information about the places captured in my YouTube video. It contains a brief history and interesting facts about individual buildings and locations, but it is not an exhaustive list of all facts. I gathered the information from the internet, and the article is written in my own words, not just a transcription of sources. I believe we will soon visit and discover these places individually, so we can look forward to more insights and experiences. Photographs and videos are my own; copying or using them without my permission is not allowed. Some images were created using AI.
