Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a stunning destination that attracts millions of tourists every year. Known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Prague has a fascinating past that is intertwined with various political changes. One such change led to the city’s name being altered.
The Name Change
In 1990, following the fall of communism and the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia, the country underwent significant political transformations. As part of these changes, Czechoslovakia peacefully split into two separate nations – the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Prior to this split, Prague was known as Prague in English and Praha in Czech. However, after the formation of the independent Czech Republic on January 1st, 1993, an interesting linguistic shift occurred.
The Official Name
While many cities have different names in different languages (such as Vienna being called Wien in German), Prague remains largely unchanged across languages. It is still referred to as Prague in English and many other foreign languages.
However, it is important to note that since January 1st, 1993, when it became the capital of the newly formed Czech Republic, Prague has an official name in Czech – Praha.
Why Use Praha?
The decision to use Praha as the official name for Prague in its native language reflects a desire to emphasize national identity and cultural heritage. It signifies a break from its previous association with Czechoslovakia and establishes a distinct identity for the newly formed country.
Pronunciation
For those unfamiliar with the pronunciation of Praha, it may sound slightly different than how it appears. The ‘r’ is pronounced softly as an almost rolling ‘r,’ while the ‘h’ is more aspirated. The stress is placed on the first syllable – PRA-ha.
Conclusion
In summary, Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is still known as Prague in English and various other foreign languages. However, in its native language, Czech, it has an official name – Praha. This change in name reflects the country’s newfound independence and highlights its unique identity as a separate nation.
If you ever have the opportunity to visit this enchanting city, make sure to explore its historic sites, wander through its charming streets, and immerse yourself in its captivating culture.