Located about 100 km east of Prague easily accessible by motorway (less than 1 hour journey time by car). The site of the city has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The original name was Hradec (Gratz). It became knowng as Hradec Kralove (Koenigsgratz) when it was given as a dowry town to Elizabeth of Poland.
During the trirty years war the town was for full 8 moths occupied by the Swedes. Though most medieval buildings have now disapeared due to fortification building furing the 18th century and then during the fast expansion of the city in 1930s the historic center around the main square is definitely worth a visit.
The city is home to University of Hradec Kralove with over 7000 students.