This city, hidden behind the Iron Curtain through the years of communism, has become a new cosmopolitan place to visit for those that like International destinations. A trip to Prague can involve an ancient city that includes castles, synagogues and the Charles Bridge that spans the Vltava River, which runs through the city or a modern city with abundant nightlife. Prague, Czech Republic was a communist city for 40 years before becoming a top tourist destination. The skyline of Prague is characterized by tall Gothic spires, baroque domes and a variety of architectural styles. Of course, the modern Prague boasts glitzy shopping malls, cocktail bars that serve Bohemian beer, film and music festivals, opera, ballet, jazz cellars and DJ dance clubs. The designer restaurants appeal to the International crowd that is looking for something different from the average cuisine. Since the 9th century, the silhouette of Prague Castle has stood as a looming vision of the history of the town, which has been spared the wars and other disasters that have affected other parts of the continent.