Who Invaded Prague?

Who Invaded Prague?

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. Throughout its history, Prague has faced numerous invasions and occupations that have shaped its culture and architecture.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the major invasions that Prague has endured.

The Mongol Invasion

In the 13th century, Prague fell victim to one of the most devastating invasions in its history – the Mongol invasion. Led by Batu Khan, grandson of Genghis Khan, the Mongols swept through Europe with their unstoppable military force.

In 1241, they reached Prague and subjected the city to destruction and pillaging. The invasion left a profound impact on Prague’s development and significantly altered its urban landscape.

The Hussite Wars

During the early 15th century, Prague became a center for religious reform led by Jan Hus. His followers, known as Hussites, fought against both religious and political oppression in what is known as the Hussite Wars.

The wars brought several periods of siege and invasion to Prague as rival factions vied for control over the city. These conflicts resulted in significant damage to many important buildings in Prague.

The Thirty Years’ War

One of the most notorious invasions in European history was during the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648). Prague played a crucial role in this conflict as it became a battleground between Catholic and Protestant forces. In 1618, Protestant nobles threw two Catholic regents out of a window at Prague Castle, an event known as the Defenestration of Prague.

This incident sparked a series of invasions and sieges, including the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, which led to the defeat of the Protestant forces. The subsequent Catholic rule resulted in the suppression of Protestantism in Prague for many years.

World War II

In more recent history, Prague faced yet another invasion during World War II. Following the German occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1939, Prague came under Nazi control.

The city suffered from bombings and extensive damage during the war, particularly during the Prague Uprising in May 1945 when Czech resistance fighters fought against German forces just days before the end of the war in Europe.

The Velvet Revolution

While not an invasion in a traditional sense, the Velvet Revolution deserves mention as a peaceful revolution that brought an end to Communist rule in Czechoslovakia. In November 1989, a series of protests and demonstrations took place across Prague, demanding democratic reforms.

The revolution culminated with mass demonstrations on Wenceslas Square, forcing the Communist government to step down and marking the beginning of a new era for Prague and Czechoslovakia.

Conclusion

Throughout its history, Prague has faced numerous invasions and occupations that have left their mark on the city’s culture and architecture. From Mongol hordes and religious wars to World War II and peaceful uprisings, each invasion has shaped Prague into the vibrant city it is today.