Well known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it definitely lives up to its reputation. With a deep history and amazing architecture, few cities come close to this centrally located capital of the Czech Republic.
The Vltava River runs through the center of Prague and is crossed by many bridges. The most famous being (Karluv Most) or Charles Bridge which is the city’s most popular landmark. It is crossed only by pedestrians and is a great place to spend time during day or night. You will find venders of all sorts selling everything from hand-crafted jewelry to beautiful paintings. The music of the bridge musicians also adds to the beautiful views.
The center of Prague is conveniently small and most sights can be reached by foot. Downtown is basically divided into five areas. Prague Castle and Hradcany, Little Quarter, Jewish Quarter, Old Town, and New Town.
Prague Castle overlooks the city and dominates the view along the river. It can be reached by tram or if you’re feeling energetic, you can walk up the old castle steps. It’s walls enclose the very gothic St. Vitus Cathedral, Palaces, and Golden Lane, which housed it’s guards and gunners. Despite being badly damaged by a fire in 1541, some of the buildings were rebuilt in Renaissance style. Every hour you can witness the changing of the guard at the main entrance. Just beyond the castle is the town of Hradcany which was founded in 1320.
Little Quarter was built on the slopes below the castle. Since the late 18th century, very little building has taken place here so you can see the old Baroque Palaces and Houses. Highlights include the Church of St. Nicholas and Little Quarter Square. For a peaceful stroll, make your way through the gardens at Wallenstein Palace.
Jewish Quarter was once an enclosed ghetto that housed all of Prague’s oppressed Jews. It’s made up by a number of Synagogues including the Old-New Synagogue which is the oldest in Europe. A remarkable site is the Old Jewish Cemetery which was the only burial ground permitted to Jews for over 300 years. It’s so small that people had to be buried on top of each other and you can see over 12,000 gravestones crammed together.
Old Town is considered to be the heart of Prague. The town square was once an old marketplace and with its open space and beautiful buildings, it’s the perfect setting to spend an afternoon. Restaurants are scattered throughout and people watching is great. Old Town’s most distinctive landmark is the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. Its magnificent steeples make a great backdrop to the square. Another popular building is the Old Town Hall which includes a tower that offers a great view of the city as well as a beautiful astronomical clock.
New Town lies just south of Old Town and is twice as large. During the late 19th century, much of the area was demolished and redeveloped. Lots of shopping can be done on Wenceslas Square which began as a medevil horse market. Other popular sites include Charles Square, the National Theatre, and the very interesting Fred and Ginger Building.
Whether staying for a few days or just passing through, Prague is a great city and despite its cold winters, it will warm your soul with its beauty and awe inspiring architecture.
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