View from the tower of St. Vitus Cathedral - Chris Amisano
Prague is full of museums, shops, restaurants, and concert venues, but there are five natural and architectural aspects of Prague that every visitor must see.
- Wenceslas Square is the large commercial center of Prague, which runs quite a few blocks from the National Museum and is near the State Opera House. As you walk along the Square, you’ll see shops and restaurants, including the art deco Hotel Europa, which is a great place to stop for an apple strudell. The square was home to demonstrations both at the beginning and the end of the Communist Regime in the Czech Republic, so there is also a profound sense of history among the new commerce of a growing nation. Be sure to stop at one of the many kiosks selling sausage and Czech beer for a snack.
- Prague Castle was home to many rulers, including Empress Maria Theresa, and dates back to the 9th Century. During the 20th Century, the imposing structure was used both as a presidential palace and as the home of the Nazi governor during World War II. One of the most impressive buildings inside the Castle grounds is St. Vitus Catherdral, which was begun in the 9th Century and not completed until 1929. The Cathedral even boasts stained-glass windows created by 20th Century Art Nouveau founder Alfons Mucha. Although there are nearly 300 steps up the tower of the cathedral, it is well worth the exercise to get a great view of Prague and to enjoy the cathedral’s architecture in close view. Inside the Castle you can also find outdoor seating for restaurants that serve local gulash – a very scenic way to enjoy traditional Czech cuisine. The area surrounding the Castle, called Hradcany, is a wonderful place to explore and shop for antiques and souvenirs. Be sure to walk down to Hradcany along the side of the Castle, where you’ll also find local artisans and artists selling their wares.
- The Old Town Square, in the Stare Mesto, or Old Town section of Prague, is alive with outdoor cafes, shops, and both gothic and baroque architecture. The Tyn Cathedral and St. Nicholas Church are great examples of both and will give you a good idea of the history of the area. The most interesting attraction in the Old Town Square is the Astronomical Clock, which is part of the town hall and dates back to the 13th Century. The clock, with various moving parts and animated figures, is an hourly tourist attraction, so stake out a spot in the front where you can see the action well. Afterwards, stop at one of the cafes along the square and have a coffee – another great way to watch people as they come and go. Another way to spend some time is to explore the streets that feed into the Square, which wind and twist their way past antique shops, museums, and art galleries.
- Petrin Hill, rising some 130 meters on the left bank of the Vltava River, is also a spectacular vista for the entire city of Prague. Surrounded by parks, Petrin Hill is accessible by walking or by the funicular, which transports visitors up and down. Any public transport ticket will work on the funicular, so you can purchase tickets in the subway stations, the tram kiosks, or at the funicular itself. At the top of the hill you’ll find a replica of the Eiffel Tower, which is another climb worth risking. You’ll also find a house of mirrors as well as the famous Hunger Wall, a defensive structure which was built by Emperor Charles IV between 1360 and 1362 to provide work for the people of Prague.
- Finally, be sure to walk across Charles Bridge, possibly one of the most unique architectural features in Europe. Originally built in the 1300’s, the bridge became a showcase for about 30 statues of saints during the 1700’s. One of the more famous statues is the likeness of St. John of Nepumuk, who was thrown into the river in 1396 by King Wenceslas himself. Touching the statue is said to bring good luck, although most of the original statues have been moved to the National Museum. The bridge is home to strolling musicians and singers, as well kiosks for local artists and souvenir vendors.
Copyright Chris Amisano. Contact the author to obtain permission for republication.
Chris Amisano - Chris Amisano is a freelance writer and author with a background in Corporate Training, Instructional Design, and Banking. His first ...
