
Prague has been one of the most beautiful European cities since the Middle Ages and has had many nicknames, such as "The City of 100 Towers", "The Heart of the Europe" and "Golden Prague".
Culturally, Prague has attracted many prominent personalities over the centuries, including Mozart (The Marriage of Figaro was the big hit of 1786), Beethoven, Tschaikovsky and Kokoschka. Writers Jan Neruda and Franz Kafka lived here, and drew much inspiration from their native town.
Situated on both banks of the river Vltava, Prague is a complex of historical monuments and encompasses many artistic styles. The historical centre consists of six quarters, which once were independent cities. In addition, there are many museums, galleries, and historical buildings. As the capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague is the most significant city to have earned international acclaim for historical preservation. In 1992 Prague's historical centre was added to UNESCO's register of world culture and natural heritage sites.
Rich with heritage, Prague also is famous for its beautiful cut glass and crystal, wooden toys and puppets, and of course, beer; in fact, the light Pilsener taste perfectly compliments the typically heavier local foods such as knedliky (dumplings), goulash and svickova.