Like many European capitals, Prague turned to Paris as its inspiration. Unlike other capitals, Prague had a powerful, inspired leader in Charles the Fourth who was committed to recreating the city. Large boulevardes, ornate "modern" buildings, beautiful facades and thoughtful alignment feature heavily across the many blocks that make up the Old Town. Fortunately, unlike many other former Communist cities, the many medieval and baroque structures survived relatively intact and were spared demolition. The Communist era saw few 20th century additions and UNESCO came in time to preserve the rest.
Martin lived in Prague for five years. Apparently there isn't really a decline in tourist numbers in winter as people from all over the world continue to flock here. There is certainly something for everyone here in terms of sights, good food, cheap quality beer (in the right places!) and a lively atmosphere everywhere. Sydney had this vibe around 2000, but lost it along the way. I don't think Prague has ever lost its mojo. Maybe this was why it was also known as the heart of Europe?!
There are guidebooks galore out there on Prague. For this one I'll let the pictures do the talking. As we walked everywhere, we can't really comment on public transportation but there are trams and we saw many taxis
Estates Theatre. Famous for being the venue where Mozart's Don Giovanni premiered
Charles University. Founded in 1348
We are always drawn to beautiful wooden doors.
This building was the store for the city's gun powder stocks.
Blue skies, blue clothes, but fortunately no blue toes today.
Oranges apparently a common Christmas decoration here!
Warm apple drinks (laced and virgin)
Church of our lady before Tyn in the background at the Old Town Square. Christmas markets still on!
The much hyped astronomical clock with moving characters draws massive crowds on the hour. We were warned not to expect much. It was rated as one of the most underwhelming experiences by Lonely Planet, but the lack of action and short duration was still a surprise. At least it was on time. And I suppose we should consider the fact that it was probably a big feat 600 years ago!! Hundreds of tourists all squished together and looking up. Cover your pockets!
This was what we came to see...
A change is as good as a holiday so we took a gastronomic journey to Italy. Delissimo!
The location is amazing, but surely this old communist block that is now the Intercontinental Hotel must be the ugliest building in Prague. I'm sure it is very different on the inside!
And, yes. That is a giant blue monkey with golden balls. The site of many russian tourists posing with duck faces and fancy model positions...
Our blue monkeys, but no gold to be seen. Vltava River and Prague Castle in the background
This synagogue (the oldest in Prague) attic reportedly housed the golem that was modelled from river clay and controlled with an oral scroll. It protected the Jewish section of town until its master forgot the golden rule of not leaving the scroll in for more than 12 hours. It then went on a wild rampage before somehow ending up in the attic. The few locals who ventured in to have a look apparently went into shock and their hair turned grey. We didn't want to risk it.
The chimney cakes continue to shrink as we head west. If we'd headed one block further west out of the market square they would've been 10% cheaper too. Grrr.
Chimney cake with ice-cream overrated said the children
At least they were of high quality. Elliot rated his the best of the trip so far.
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| St Nicholas Cathedral |
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