The “Dancing Building” also known as “Fred and Ginger”, is one of most controversial building in Prague. Designed by the architects Frank O. Gehry and Vlado Milunic. It seems out of place at first. Prague is one of the few cities in Eastern Europe to have escaped World War II with minimal damage. (more…)
Reminiscent of an old Apollo-Saturn 5 rocket gantry, the Zizkov Tower (affectionately known as the ‘Prague prick’ by locals) transmits TV, communication and meteorological signals across the city. In fact, the similarity is such that you half expect a crew of astronauts (or should that be cosmonauts) to appear at any moment! Completed in 1989, but planned during the Communist era, the structure stands to a height of 216m, with a public observation area approximately 100 metres above ground. (more…)
Made up of eight separate gardens, Petrin Hill is a tranquil open space between Klarov and Smichov that’s ideal for a gentle stroll during the summer, whilst also affording wonderful views of Nové Mesto and the rest of Prague beyond. Reached by taking the funicular railway from Újezd, the journey passes Ruzovy sad before stopping midway at Nebozizek (which has its own terrace restaurant). At the summit - some 318m up - you’ll find the mirror maze (Bludiste) built for the 1891 Prague Exposition), along with an offshoot of the Prague Planetarium, the Stefanik observatory. Those with a head for heights can climb a further 299 steps to ascend the Eiffelesque Petrin Tower, while also nearby are the 14th-century Hunger Wall fortification and the leafy Kinsky Gardens. (more…)
Regarded by Czechs as the mythical birthplace of Prague, the Slavic tribes first established an outpost here under the leadership of local chieftain Krok who, as legend has it, fathered a daughter named Libuse with visionary powers. Libuse, who prophesized that she would marry a ploughman named Premysl (and indeed did) later said that on the seven hills - of what is now Prague - a majestic city would rise. Of course, on account of her being right, Libuse is considered to be the ‘mother of Prague’, while Premysl was the first in a long line of Czech rulers (the Premyslid dynasty). (more…)
Considered to be the most historic site in Josefov - and the spiritual centre for Prague’s Jewish Community - the synagogue, which dates from the 13th century, is one the few remaining medieval buildings in the Quarter. Still used for prayer today, the Gothic interior features an ornate barrel-vaulted vestibule, while the structure of the main hall - crowned by an impressive tympanum over the north portal - is influenced by the 12 tribes of Israel i.e. there are 12 carved vine leaves, 12 windows etc. Note: when entering the hall, male visitors are asked to cover their heads - bandanas, baseball caps etc. are okay, but a yarmulka can also be purchased with your ticket. (more…)
The cemetery, which dates from the early 15th century, is the second oldest Jewish burial site in Europe (and the most popular monument in the Quarter). Some 12,000 tombstones are located here, each crammed into a tiny space, with the oldest dating back to 1439. (more…)
One of the most popular places to stay in Prague, Wenceslas Square is probably the only place from where most of Prague´s sights and attractions lie at a walking distance. Shopping, entertainment and nightlife; this place has it all. Originally used as Prague´s main horse market, the Wenceslas Square was founded over 600 years ago during the reign of Charles IV and covers a span of 750m long and 60m wide boulevard. (more…)
Charles Bridge is a famous historical bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague. Its construction started in 1357 under the auspices of King Charles IV, and finished in the beginning of 15th century. As the only means of crossing the river in Prague, Charles Bridge used to be the most important connection between the Old Town, Prague Castle and adjacent areas until 1841. Also this ’solid-land’ connection made Prague important as a trade route between east and west Europe. The bridge was originally called the Stone Bridge (Kamenný most) or the Prague Bridge (Pražský most) but has been the “Charles Bridge” since 1870. (more…)
The Prague Astronomical Clock or Prague Orloj is a medieval astronomical clock mounted on the southern wall of Old Town City Hall in the Old Town Square and is a popular tourist attraction. (more…)
The one thing that all of Europe’s great capital cities have in common is a focal point of a grand main square and Prague’s easily ranks among the best. Once the main marketplace of Prague, the Old Town Square is a large, immaculately preserved space surrounded by a number of architectural treasures including Old Town Hall, Kinský Palace and St. Nicholas Church.
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