Prague, known locally as Praha, serves as the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. It is situated on the banks of the Vltava River in the historical region of Bohemia, which it also historically governed. The city functions as the primary administrative center for the nation, dominating the skyline with its 9th-century castle. Its geographical position along the meandering river has shaped its development and identity as a major European urban center.

The city's origins trace back to early settlements, with archaeological evidence suggesting activity from the Paleolithic age and Celtic oppidums in the first millennium BC. A Germanic city called Casurgis appeared on maps in the 2nd century AD. Prague Castle construction began near the end of the 9th century, expanding a fortified settlement that existed since 800 AD. It later became the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and an imperial seat under Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV.

The urban landscape features Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture across ten numbered districts, with Praha 1 containing the oldest parts. Notable landmarks include Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square with its astronomical clock, and the Jewish Quarter. The historic centre was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The city is often associated with nicknames like the City of a Hundred Spires, reflecting its dense collection of spires and domes.

Prague attracts millions of visitors annually due to its rich history and cultural attractions. It hosts over ten major museums, numerous theatres, galleries, and cinemas. The city was a focal point for the Protestant Reformation and played significant roles in 20th-century history as the capital of Czechoslovakia. Its status as a popular tourist destination is highlighted by receiving more than 8.5 million international visitors in 2017.

The city has a population of 1,397,880 as of 2025, with its metropolitan area home to approximately 2.3 million people. It is classified as a Beta+ global city and possesses an extensive modern public transportation system. Home to Charles University, the oldest in Central Europe, Prague combines academic heritage with economic activity. Its climate supports year-round tourism, though it remains one of the most visited cities in Europe.