Why Was Prague Not Destroyed During Ww2?

By Alice Nichols

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a beautiful and historic city that attracts millions of tourists every year. One of the most remarkable things about Prague is that it was not destroyed during World War II, unlike many other European cities.

This begs the question: why was Prague spared from destruction during the war? Let’s find out.

Geographical Location

One of the main reasons why Prague was not destroyed during World War II is its geographical location. The city is situated in the heart of Europe and was an important transportation hub, serving as a major rail junction between Berlin and Vienna. As a result, both sides had an interest in preserving this strategic location.

Hitler’s Affection for Prague

Another reason why Prague was spared from destruction during World War II was Hitler’s personal affection for the city. Hitler considered Prague to be one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and he wanted to make it his personal headquarters after he had conquered Europe. Thus, he ordered his troops to take the city without damaging its historic buildings.

The Resistance Movement

The Czech resistance movement played a crucial role in saving Prague from destruction during World War II. The resistance fighters were determined to protect their city from Nazi invasion and destruction at any cost. They organized several sabotage operations against Nazi troops and tanks that were approaching the city, which delayed their advance.

The Surrender of Czechoslovakia

In 1938, Neville Chamberlain signed the Munich Agreement with Hitler, which allowed him to annex Sudetenland (a region in Czechoslovakia). In March 1939, Hitler broke his promise and occupied all of Czechoslovakia. However, instead of attacking Prague directly, he allowed his troops to enter peacefully without resistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there were several factors that contributed to Prague’s survival during World War II. Its strategic location, Hitler’s personal affection for the city, the resistance movement, and the peaceful surrender of Czechoslovakia all played a role in ensuring that Prague was not destroyed during the war. Today, Prague stands as a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors every year.