Great Places To Visit: Prague Cafes And Castles
Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is an extraordinarily
beautiful city. Standing on the banks of the river Vltava (the
locals generally use the German name for it the Moldau). Few
wars or natural disaster ever reach here and the architectural
heritage has been beautifully preserved. It is also know as the
“Hundred Spired City” due to the many churches that adorn the
city streets.
Much of the street plan, in as much as there is one, is
medieval. And will come as a surprise (hopefully a pleasant
one) to anyone used to living in a grid pattern North American
city.
The city still boasts many beautiful buildings dating from the
baroque period; a sight lost to much of Europe, that suffered
so much in the devastation of two world wars. The canter of the
city is a pleasure to walk around. Much of it is dating from the
14th century, when Charles IV started the university and built
the “New Town” area of the city.
Prague only established itself as the capital in 1918 with the
creation of Czechoslovakia. It remained under Soviet control
until 1989, when the “Velvet Revolution” gently broke the grip
of the failing Soviet Union.
Nowadays the city has thriving cafes, clubs and shops, where
the newly wealthy and the inspirational window shopper can keep
themselves amused for hours on end. The boulevards contain
everything from traditional Czech souvenirs to the latest hi
tech modern electrical gadgetry.
Must See Prague:
• Charles Bridge: built in the 14th century, it was believed at
the time, that odd numbers were lucky. The builders started work
at 5:31 on the day 9/7/1352 very odd, but maybe effective, as
the bridge is still standing today!
• St.Nicholas Church: When building work finished in 1756
Prague had one of the finest Baroque churches in Europe and it
still retains that position today. There is a huge painting of
St. Nicholas in the nave and a wonderful bell tower. Mozart
gave a recital here and there are still frequent classical
concerts throughout the week
• Prague Castle: Now the home of the president, it was
previously the seat of the Czech royal family. It is surrounded
by palaces and features an army museum. The changing of the
guard takes place every hour and, as with some other European
Capitals it is quite a spectacle. Bring a camera.
• The Old Town Square: Built before the 12th century this is
the oldest and most historic square in Prague. It is made up of
many interesting buildings including many from the baroque
period. Many of the buildings are brightly colored and there
are many pavement cafes, where you can relax and watch the
world go by.
• The National Technical Museum: Although unimaginatively
(though accurately) titled, this is a fascinating collection of
all things technical. With everything, from a railway carriage
belonging to the Archduke Ferdinand, (whose assassination
sparked the outbreak of the first world war), to a working
reconstruction of a working coal mine.
• Vhsyrad Castle: Over a thousand years old and a former home
of the Czech nobility, this castle has an impressive pedigree.
Take a stroll on top of the ramparts for a great view of the
city and river. There is a wonderful gothic church, a museum
and a cemetery, where the composer Dvorzac the Author of the
“New World Symphony” is buried.
• Petrin Park: One of the hidden gems of Prague There is a rose
garden, a maze and a gate to a well cultivated garden, but the
real sight is from the tip of the hill. Take the short cable
car ride to the top and there is the Petrin tower, basically a
smaller copy of the Eiffel Tower. It is an outstanding
viewpoint and well worth the effort.
Food and drink in Prague are both hearty (as you would expect
in Eastern Europe) and affordable. You must try the dumplings
and the beer is some of the finest on the continent. It is also
the original home of Budweiser and they still make their own,
some would say superior version.
The hotels are more expensive than they used to be, but are
still affordable. Look around for the best bargains. The
transport, mainly buses and trams, is very good. Although
English is not as common as in many parts of Europe, a lot of
the locals speak a few words. It is always worth asking
directions, as they are polite and friendly people. A visit to
Prague will not disappoint but don’t go in winter unless you
have a good coat.