About Prague

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is situated in the heart of Europe.
The Czech Republic neighbours Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria.  Its central location makes Prague easily accessible from many different airports.

Prague's history dates back to the 9th century. As early as the Middle Ages, the city had the reputation as one of the most beautiful towns in Europe and the city is affectionately referred to as "golden", "stone dream" or "World's crown".

Under the reign of King Charles IV (14th century) and King Rudolph II (turn of 16th to 17th century) Prague gained policital and cultural power. It was during this period that the University of Prague was founded (1348), the first University in Central Europe. As the city expanded, King Charles IV commissioned a number of spacious and remarkably impressive buildings.   In 1526, under the Hapsburg monarchy, Prague fell within the "Kingdom of Bohemia" for the next 400 years. The Kingdom of Bohemia was a country that included the Czech Republic and other middle European lands.

The independence of the Czechoslovak Republic was proclaimed in 1918, and Prague became its capital city.  During the second world war the Czechoslovak Republic was occupied by the Nazis and then for the next 40 years it fell under Communist rule.

The Velvet Revolution in 1989 opended the way to democracy, freedom and economic prosperity.  In 1993, the Federation of Czechs and Slovaks divided peacefuly into two new sovereign democratic states - the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. Prague became once more the capital of the independent state and is today a flourishing European city.

Source: Agent's Manual Prague

Climate

The climate of the Czech Republic is mild. The Annual Average temperature is 9°C (68F). During the summer the average is 19°C and in the winter -1°C.

Currency

The currency in the Czech Republic is the Czech Crown. Foreign currency may be exchanged at banks, exchange offices and ATMs.
Within larger retailers and at the airport Euros are accepted as currency, but you will receive your change in Czech Crowns.

Electricity

The electric voltage in the Czech Republic is 230V.

Spoken Languages

The official language is Czech. English and German are spoken widely all over the country. Tourist services are available in French and Russian.

Emergency Numbers

Emergency - 112
Police - 158
Municipal Police - 156
Firemen - 150
Road Emergency Service - 1230