Page 22 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Prague

20  INTRODUCING PR A GUE

Rulers of Prague

Three great dynasties have shaped the history of Prague: the
Přemyslids, the Luxemburgs and the Habsburgs. According to
Slavic legend, the Přemyslids were founded by Princess Libuše
(see p23). Her line included St Wenceslas and Přemysl Otakar II,
whose death in battle at Marchfeld paved the way for the
Luxemburgs. This family produced one of the city’s greatest
rulers, Charles IV, who was King of Bohemia and Holy Roman
Emperor (see pp26–7). In 1526, Prague came under the control
of the Austrian House of Habsburg whose rule lasted 400 years,
until after World War I, when the newly formed Czechoslovakia
gained its independence and was governed by a succession of
presidents. Following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia in 1993, 1346–78
the modern day Czech Republic continues to elect presidents. Charles IV
1310–46 John 1458–71
of Luxemburg George of
Poděbrady
1140–72 1305–6
Vladislav I Wenceslas III
935–72
Boleslav I
1278–1305 1453–7 Ladislav
Wenceslas II Posthumus
1034–55 1230–53
Břetislav I Wenceslas I
900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500
Přemyslids Luxemburgs Jagiellos
900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500

972–99
Boleslav II
1061–92
Vratislav II
921–35 St Wenceslas
1471–1516
1173–9 Vladislav
Soběslav II Jagiello
1197–1230
Přemysl Otakar I

1253–78 Přemysl Otakar II
1378–1419
Wenceslas IV

1419–37 Sigismund

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