Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Nicknamed the “City of a Hundred Spires,” it’s known for its fairy-tale charm, medieval streets, and a history that stretches back over a thousand years.

But beyond its gothic cathedrals and cobblestone lanes, Prague has plenty of fascinating and quirky trivia that make it a traveler’s dream.

Here are 30+ fun and quirky facts about Prague that showcase why it’s one of Europe’s most magical destinations.

History and Culture

1. Prague is over 1,100 years old. Founded in the 9th century, it has been at the heart of Central Europe for centuries.
2. It was once the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Under Charles IV in the 14th century, Prague became one of Europe’s most important cities.
3. Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world. Covering 70,000 square meters, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. The Charles Bridge is legendary. Built in 1357, it’s lined with 30 statues and is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
5. The Astronomical Clock is over 600 years old. Installed in 1410, it still puts on a show every hour in Old Town Square.
6. Prague has the oldest university in Central Europe. Charles University, founded in 1348, remains one of the country’s top institutions.
7. It’s called the “City of a Hundred Spires.” In reality, there are more than 500 towers across the city.

Food and Drink

8. Beer is cheaper than water. The Czech Republic has the world’s highest beer consumption per capita, and Prague is its capital of beer culture.
9. Pilsner originated in the Czech lands. The first golden lager was brewed in nearby Plzeň in 1842.
10. Traditional dishes are hearty. Think roast pork, dumplings, and sauerkraut.
11. Trdelník is a sweet street snack. These chimney cakes, rolled in sugar and nuts, are popular with tourists.
12. Becherovka is a Czech herbal liqueur. Often enjoyed as a digestive after meals.
13. Cafés have a rich history. Prague was once home to literary giants like Franz Kafka, who often wrote in local coffeehouses.
14. Beer spas are a real thing. Visitors can soak in tubs of warm beer ingredients while sipping a pint.

Modern Attractions

15. Dancing House is a modern icon. Designed by Frank Gehry, it’s nicknamed “Fred and Ginger” after the dancers.
16. Prague has one of Europe’s best public transport systems. Trams, buses, and metro lines make getting around easy and cheap.
17. The Žižkov Television Tower is quirky. Decorated with giant crawling baby sculptures by artist David Černý, it’s one of the city’s strangest landmarks.
18. Letná Park offers stunning views. It’s a favorite spot for locals to relax with a beer and overlook the Vltava River.
19. The John Lennon Wall is constantly changing. Covered in graffiti and Beatles-inspired art since the 1980s, it symbolizes peace and freedom.
20. Wenceslas Square is a hub of history. It has been the site of protests, celebrations, and political change.
21. Prague has a vibrant nightlife. From traditional pubs to underground clubs, the city stays lively until dawn.

Unusual Trivia

22. The Vltava River runs through it. Eleven bridges cross it in Prague alone, with Charles Bridge being the most famous.
23. Kafka has a giant moving statue. A 42-layer rotating sculpture of his head stands outside a shopping center.
24. Cubist architecture is unique to Prague. It’s one of the few places in the world where you’ll find Cubist buildings.
25. The narrowest street is only 50 cm wide. Located in Old Town, it even has traffic lights for pedestrians.
26. Prague once had a massive metronome. Standing in Letná Park, it replaced a gigantic statue of Stalin that was blown up in 1962.
27. The city was spared in World War II. Unlike many European capitals, much of its historic architecture survived.
28. There’s a ghostly legend about Charles Bridge. Folklore says eggs were mixed into the mortar during its construction for strength.
29. The Strahov Library is breathtaking. Its baroque halls look straight out of a fantasy novel.
30. Prague’s Old Jewish Cemetery is haunting. With thousands of graves stacked on top of each other, it’s one of the most unusual cemeteries in Europe.
31. It has one of the world’s oldest working synagogues. The Old New Synagogue dates back to the 13th century.
32. The city loves puppetry. Marionette theaters are a long-standing Czech tradition.
33. There’s an upside-down horse statue. Another quirky David Černý creation, it hangs inside Lucerna Palace.

Final Thoughts

Prague is a city that feels like stepping into a storybook. With its mix of gothic towers, cobbled streets, quirky modern art, and legendary beer culture, it has a character unlike anywhere else.

These 30+ fun and quirky facts about Prague highlight why it’s one of Europe’s most magical cities to visit.

Whether you’re strolling across Charles Bridge, sipping a pint in a historic pub, or discovering hidden art, Prague never fails to surprise.