The Přemyslid dynasty was a powerful and influential royal family in Bohemia that ruled between the late 9th and early 14th century. The remains of several members, however, are of those who lived and died between the 11th and early 13th century. After the discovery of the family’s bodies in the storeroom of St. Stephen in 2018, researchers used DNA and radiocarbon dating to determine that those buried are indeed the members of the Přemyslid family.
St. George’s Basilica and the Benedictine Nuns
St. George’s Basilica, the second church built in the Prague Castle was adopted by Benedictine nuns. Because of their involvement and the location of the basilica, it provided the citizens of Prague a place to socialize and politically organize. The existence of this convent provided girls and women to participate in the religious and educational landscape of Bohemia.
Charles IV and the New Town
For his time in the 14th century, King of Bohemia Charles IV was one of the most progressive rulers in his time. His greatest contribution to Czech culture is his urban plan for Prague, entitled New Town, or Nové Město. He centered the people of the town in his plans and centralized the working class members of society into New Town, which made it a hub for business and merchant activity. His establishment of Charles University also brought about many major institutional changes throughout Bohemia’s history.