Category: Prague

Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
Prague Castle (PraÅ¾skÃ½ hrad) is the largest ancient castle in the world according to Guinness Book of Records. Its enormous compound area consists of the Royal Palace for the Kings of Bohemia, St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica and a Monastery centred around three grand courtyards. Besides its historical importance, Prague Castle also doubles up now as an important political centre where the Czech Republic Presidentâ€™s office is located.
It was a gradual uphill walk from Manesuv Bridge (MÃ¡nesÅ¯v most) towards the Black Tower of Prague Castle.
Soon enough we see St. George’s Basilica (Bazilika Sv. JiÅ™Ã) with its catchy-coloured reconstructed faÃ§ade.
St. Vitus Cathedral
Right across St. George’s Basilica is St. Vitus Cathedral (KatedrÃ¡la svatÃ©ho VÃta) founded by Charles IV. The spiritual symbol and largest church in the Czech Republic have witnessed many coronations of Czech kings and queens.
It holds some of the countryâ€™s most important treasures like the Saint Wenceslas Crown and the Coronation Cross. And hereâ€™s where the tomb of Saint John of Nepomuk is kept.
I was overwhelmed upon seeing it up close – St. Vitus Cathedral is indeed an amazing sight! The Golden Gate and the Last Judgement mosaic is a joy to look at.
St Vitus Cathedral interior is equally stunning with high ceiling and beautiful stained glass. But expectedly, itâ€™s so packed with tourists that I gave up and head over to the South Tower for some steps-climbing exercise instead.
The Great South Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral is much more peaceful in comparison. Not sure whether itâ€™s because of the taunting 280+ narrow steps or the additional admission fee. Perhaps itâ€™s the former as the ascent can turn legs into jelly-like LOL.
All the effort is for this rewarding view of Prague.
I have a chat with this pleasant lady working here and she mentioned that she and her colleagues do the climb almost every day!!
Old Royal Palace
The castle visit will not be completed without seeing the Old Royal Palace (StarÃ½ krÃ¡lovskÃ½ palÃ¡c) founded in the 12th century. It was the official residence of Czech Kings for up to 16th century but do not expect the grandeur of Versailles. The interior design and dÃ©cor of the Old Royal Palace is simpler in comparison, or perhaps way too simple…
One of the highlights would be Vladislav Hall (VladislavskÃ½ sÃ¡l) famed for its Gothic vaulted ceiling.
We then went over to check out Kohl’s Fountain (Kohlova kaÅ¡na) and around before heading over to The Golden Lane.
Golden Lane of Prague Castle
The small street of Golden Lane (ZlatÃ¡ uliÄka) used to be homes for those living within the castle compound. People like castle guards, servants and craftsmen especially the goldsmiths, thus the name. I find it rather amazing to be living in those little colourful houses – just look at the size of the door!
Now the picturesque street is mostly occupied by souvenir shops cater to the tourists. There are also houses which are decorated with artsy designs adding some life to their old-world quaintness.
We spent the rest of the day around Charles Bridge and Old Town Square before heading for dinner at Kolkovna. The meal was exceptional as per previous visits and a nice way to conclude our Europe trip.
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July 25, 2016
The beautiful gothic Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge (KarlÅ¯v most) is a magnificent stone Gothic bridge that spans across Vltava River since the 15th century. It connects the Old Town (Staro MÄ›ste) with Lesser Town (MalÃ¡ Strana) and the prominent Prague Castle. Adding to its charm are 2 beautiful fortified towers at both the ends and 30 Baroque statues lined along the bridge. It is one of Prague landmarks and visited by thousands every day.
There is never really a quiet moment on Charles Bridge with that many people on it. So much so that it can be quite a pain to move along and we were there during offseason! There are vendors displaying all sorts of souvenirs, buskers and beggars every few steps away.
The oldest and most popular statue is Saint John of Nepomuk. The man was tortured and thrown into Vltava River from Charles Bridge by the order of King Wenceslas IV. And now it is believed that touching the statue will make one wish come true, which I donâ€™t understand the logic if thereâ€™s any.
Some of the other statues on the bridge.
Itâ€™s so crowded on the bridge that I found it hard to frame my shot without being blocked or blocking someone else in the process. So I decided to come back later in the day, hoping for lesser crowds.
The Dancing House
We went over to check out the famous dancing couple in Prague by the name of Ginger and Fred. I am of course talking about the Dancing House located at one of the rather busy junction. The unique building with its curvy outlines stands out from the blend of architectural styles which defines Prague.
It was not readily accepted upon completion but the Dancing House is now regarded as one of the most interesting buildings in Prague. I like it too, but just wondering how practical will the interior space be like?
We came across a few great looking buildings along the way from Charles Bridge towards Dancing House. The best part is without the huge crowd.
Wenceslas Square
Wenceslas Square (VÃ¡clavskÃ© nÃ¡mÄ›stÃ) was part of King Charles’s plan for a new town. It had since witnessed many important Czech Republicâ€™s historical events and till today a favourite parade ground of all kinds. The square now forms the administrative and commercial centre of the city where the main shopping district begins. Plenty of hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants can be found here along the wide streets.
The long, pedestrian square leads uphill towards the good looking National Museum.
Hereâ€™s also where we caught a beautiful rainbow after a short shower of rain. NICE!!
The touch of luck on Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is still bustling with people even during evening time, though much less maddening as compared to the day. There are more breathable spaces for me to take a good look around.
The amazing view of Prague Castle from the bridge is truly a sight to behold.
Finally a closer look at what many people have been rubbing for good luck at the Saint John of Nepomuk statue. Notice the difference between the portions which constantly receive TLC?
Ok, but hereâ€™s the thing – you only need to touch the falling priest on the plague if you believe in the good luck touch. Not the lady or the dog (the plague on the left) which does not have anything to do with the myth.
The other touch-of-luck place on the bridge is the exact spot where the priest was thrown over. The saying for this is to make a wish while touching the cross on the bridge, and supposing it will come true within a year.
I did not try any of those as I am keener to find a good spot for some long exposure night shot. :) Prague at night is seriously magical and beautiful.
The advertisement car for Thai Massage.
One last shot of the Old town bridge tower before heading back to Design Hotel Josef Prague.
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July 14, 2016