Prague Attractions & Sightseeing In Central Downtown Praha
See Also Leading Main Attractions In Prague
 |
|---|
Related Pages:
|
||
Sightseeing And Attractions In Central Downtown Prague
In the heart of Eastern Europe the capital city of the Czech Republic offers much of interest to any visitor from a complicated history,unique architechture, opera to Jazz, cafes to restaurant and great bars open all hours selling the many lagers the Czechs are famous for. Just walking around this city or dossing in it' numerous cafes and bars day or night is a joy. Parts of Prague (Praha) date back to the 9th century but the leading sightseeing attractions where built for King Charles 1V in the 14th Century. It's bueaty is immense at any time of the year - whether when you visit the temperature ist -13C or 35C!.
Central Downtown Prague is divided into two areas situated on opposite banks of the River Vltava. On the westbank is the ' lesser town (Malá Strana)' which is dominated by Prague Castle (Pražský hrad). The castle's origins date back to the 9th century AD since when it has been the home of numerous Czech rulers and the seat of government. Nowdays it is probably the most salubrious of area Prague and populated by the well off and diplomats. On the eastern bank of the river is the 'old town (Stare Mesto)' which is home to the famous astronomical clock in the old town square and in the Jewish Quarter (Josefov)' the oddly named Old New Synagogue (Staronová Synagoga) the oldest Synagogue in Europe that still serves its faithful. There are several bridges that cross the river - the most important being Charles Bridge (Karlův most ) with origins that date back to the 12th century - . see also Leading Main Attractions In Prague
Prague's famous reputation for impressive buildings is not confined to the Lesser and Old Towns). The main rail terminus Wilsonova Station with its aesthetically pleasing internal central dome should not be missed. Its a stark contrast to a nearby fly-over from an era just passed or the Stalin inspired housing estates western outskirts of Prague which are visible on the final flight approach to the city.
The Old Town Sights
Wenceslas Square Prague - See Also Leading Main Attractions In Prague
The dimensions of Wenceslas Square are around 60m X 760m (it is more than twice the width of La Ramblas in Barcelona) give this fomer horse market a sweeping presence, which is clearly definable at the incline top end which is dominated by the slighty Regal looking and very imposing National Museum. In front of the museum is The Satute of Vaclev Myslbek on horseback. Below this on lower gound is a very large The Statue of St Wencelas ( Duke of Bohemia ) who was assainated in the 10th century.
Wenceslas Square for generations has been a symbol of Czech nationalism and the scene of many demostrations and protests. In front of the Statue of Wenceslas there is a small marble memorial at ground level inscribed with words Memorial To The Victims Of Communism. This very dignified headstone rests on the spot where 20 year old Jan Palach poured petrol over himself and burnt himself to death, in January 1969, as a protest against The Soviet led invasion of The Czech Republic five months earlier in August 1968. Over three quarter of a million people went to his funeral.
Though Wenceslas Square dates back to the 13th century it is very westernised, with many shops, cafes and clubs. If you with your back to the Musem towards the lower end the first road on the left is a central spot for trams routes from all over Prague which stop outside a large Tescos (Closes at 8pm). At the foot of the square , turn left for The Cafe Lourve in Narodini (100 metres along on the left)-see our Prague Restaurant Guide (with images) or right for The Main Prague Tourist Office which is 110 metres along on the right. They love to help!
The Lesser Town Prague Sights
One of the present bridge's twin towers (on the lesser town side) was part of the original bridge. On the cobbled bridge are 30 statues dedicated to the saints that were erected between the 15th and 20th centuries. In the summer its very crowded street traders selling expensive souvenirs. In the winter amidst the snow it is enchanting and romantic especially at night. Dominating the landscape above the bridge is The Prague Castle - Hradnacy Fortress. In principal it is like The Vatican in Rome - a city within a city - but it is far more intriguing. Over 50 buildings can be found in the castle, which was a former palace for Czech Kings and now the official home of the Czech President. The original castle was built in the 9th century and most of it was rebuilt in the 14th century with some additions added in the 16th century.
Those with a morbid fascination will find a visit to it Torture Chambers rewarding whilst others will appreciate The Golden Lane. The latter is a street, one side of which was built in the 16th century for the families of artists, architects and musicians. The other side was built a century later for leading marksmen and soldiers serving Royalty. These house or rooms are only 2m deep. In 1916 no 22 was The Czech Home Of Frank Kafka. During his year stay he was inspired to write The Castle. Incidentally, the last house at the very top of the street offers visitors cross bow showing.
In the midst of all this is The St Vitus Catherdral, which replaced an earlier 9th centry church. It contains 3 domes which house the largest church bell in Bohemia and 21 Chapels. There are three levels to the main building. The castle has several courtyards one of which stages open air theatre and the first courtyard at the highest point of the grounds features The Changing Of The Presidential (Royal) Guard hourly from 5am - midnight. This is on the Nerudova side of the castle.