If there is one thing you should know about Prague, it is that there is a wide range of things to see and do in the city. Prague has a fascinating history that reaches back centuries. Whether you are interested in Prague landmarks that have been part of the city for hundreds of years or fascinated by the challenges and struggles faced by the former Czechoslovakia during the 20th century, you are sure to find something interesting.

If you are fascinating by the city’s lengthy history, the first landmark to consider is the famed Prague Castle. People describe this sprawling castle as looking like “something from a fairly tale”. Its construction began way back in 880 and its history has featured some truly memorable events. The castle was home to bishops, princes, kings and even to an Emperor of the Roman Empire. More recently, it is served as a home base for Czechoslovakian (and now, Czech Republic) presidents.

The castle welcomes tourists and has become one of the most popular Prague landmarks. It puts a large chunk of the city’s amazing past on display for all who visit. Let us consider a few of the older landmarks in the city and a few newer ones that tell the tale of the last sixty years.

Another one of the best-known Prague landmarks is the Charles Bridge. This massive pedestrian bridge went up in 1357 and is still in use today. It is considered one of the world’s more romantic spots and you can see couples walking, arms locked, across the bridge at virtually any time. It is a beautiful spot every visitor to Prague will want to see.

Those with an interest in more recent history might want to make a visit to the Jan Palach Memorial, located near the famous Wenceslas Square. This Memorial is a somber tribute to a Jan Palach, who in in 1969 burned himself to death in a protest against the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia. Every January, residents of Prague gather to pay their respects to the brave political martyr, placing wreaths around the Memorial.

Another of the Prague landmarks with 20th century significance is the Zizkov Monument. Although it was built in approximately 1930 as a tribute to Hussite forces from the 15th century, the monument later became an arsenal during the Nazi occupation of World War II. It was then used as a mausoleum for several dead presidents during the era of Communist rules. It is a striking structure with a story that highlights the challenges Prague faced during some difficult times.

Whether you are interested in what happened ten centuries ago or in the city’s history over the past sixty years, there are some great Prague landmarks that illustrate the city’s fascinating past.