Interesting sights of Prague. Czech National Museum. holiday options in Prague

Prague is one of most beautiful cities Europe, each building in which is a work of architectural art. Among the main attractions of Prague are eighteen magnificent stone and steel bridges connecting the banks of the Vltava. One of the most beautiful is the Charles Bridge, a work of medieval architecture. The masterpiece of European Gothic architecture is St. Vitus Cathedral, which took almost 600 years to build. There are many beautiful fountains in Prague. In 1993, the five central historical districts of Prague were included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as an architectural and historical reserve.

The most famous Prague sights are: the Old Town (Stare mesto) with the market square (Old Town Square); Town Hall with chimes, Tyn Church and a monument to Jan Hus; The Charles Bridge; Small town (Mala Strana) with numerous palaces and gardens; Prague Castle (Castle); the largest castle in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records, with St. Vitus Cathedral; Golden street; Josefov (medieval Jewish quarter-ghetto) with an old Jewish cemetery and synagogues; medieval fortress Vyshegrad; Stragonovsky monastery; Prague Zoo and Botanical Garden with a tropical greenhouse in Troy; New Town (Nove mesto) with Przykop Street, Wenceslas Square and the National Museum; Petřín Tower, similar to the Eiffel Tower in 1:5 scale; a TV tower in the Zizkov district with a cafe, an observation deck and an original sculptural decoration; the metronome in Letensky Gardens, a gigantic mechanism that seems to hover over the city; the extravagant "Dancing House" (architects Frank Gern and Vlado Milunich) and other monuments in Art Nouveau, Cubism, Functionalism and contemporary architecture; churches, such as the Church of the Sacred Heart of the Lord in Vinohrady; museums, buildings and places associated with famous Prague residents and guests of Prague (composers Mozart, Smetana, Dvorak, artist Mucha, writers Kafka, Hasek, Meyrink, etc.); Powder tower; Troy Castle is not really a castle, but a light baroque country palace; Olshansky cemetery, etc.

The first historical information about the settlements of the Slavs on the territory of modern Prague dates back to the 6th century AD. e. In the X century Prague became the capital of the Czech state, at the end of the same century a market square was built in the city. By the end of the 12th - beginning of the 13th century, Prague became a major European shopping mall. In the first half of the 13th century, fortress walls began to be erected around the stone buildings in the area of ​​the square. During his reign (1346 - 1378, the Bohemian king and German emperor Charles IV proclaimed Prague the capital of the empire and began extensive construction here. The name of the city is associated with the Old Slavonic name of the river bank, with stone thresholds at the fords, and also with the fact that the high bank along form can be compared with a threshold (the threshold in Czech is "prah").

Soon Prague became the most major city Central Europe. By the end of the reign of Charles IV, it had 4,000 houses and 40,000 inhabitants. At the beginning of the 15th century, Prague experienced the Hussite movement, which slowed down its development. The defeat of the Czechs in the Battle of the White Mountain in 1620, the devastation of the country by the Thirty Years' War, the deprivation of Prague of the right to be the imperial residence led to a difficult economic situation. In 1689, a huge fire broke out in the city, during which the jewish city, and most of Old and New city.

In the 18th century, the territory of Prague continued to expand to include the surrounding areas. Churches, palaces, houses are being built in the city, mostly in the Baroque style, since it was the time of this style. In 1757, Prague was badly damaged during the Prussian siege, but managed to quickly rebuild. In 1784, the former independent settlements of Hradchany, Mala Strana, Stare Mesto and Nove Mesto were merged into a single royal city Prague. At the end of the 18th century, Prague experienced one of the most important periods of its development and turned into a beautiful European city. By the middle of the 19th century, Prague continued to develop economically and carried on a brisk trade with its neighbors.

After the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the fall of 1918 and the formation of the independent Czechoslovak Republic, Prague became its capital. The city existed relatively quietly until the outbreak of World War II in 1939. Prague was liberated on May 9, 1945 by Soviet troops during the Prague operation. Fortunately, the war did not leave any serious damage in the city. In 1960, Prague became the capital of Czechoslovakia and remained so until 1993, when, after the “velvet divorce” of the Czechoslovak Federation, it became the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague became the main venue for the events of the Prague Spring of 1968, when an attempt was made to internally reform the CPC, its armed suppression by the Warsaw Pact forces in August 1968, and then the Velvet Revolution of 1989.

Prague consists of several districts, which for a long time were considered separate cities (Stare Mesto, Nove Mesto, Hradcany, Mala Strana, Vysehrad). In the past, they not only had a different status, system of subordination, administration, finances, etc., but often were at enmity with each other, sometimes reaching real hostilities. The first attempt to unite the Prague cities dates back to 1518, when the townspeople of the Old Town united with the New Town, and in 1523 this event was confirmed by a royal decree of Louis Jagiellonian. However, already ten years later, after the election of the Czech king Ferdinand of Habsburg, the contradictions between the townspeople regarding his policy led to their re-separation. It was possible to finally unite the individual cities in the territory of Prague only in 1784 during the reign of Emperor Joseph II, a well-known reformer. The history of Prague before 1784 is the history of each of these cities, today its quarters.

Prague Castle. At the end of the 9th century, the first Christian prince Borzhivoy from the Přemyslid family founded a princely settlement here, which later became the main residence of the rulers of this dynasty. The bishop's residence has been located in Prague Castle since 973. In the XII century, the current fortress walls with towers arose as a result of the general reconstruction of the Castle by Sobeslav I. In 1158, Prague Castle became the center of the Czech state. The highest heyday of Prague Castle belongs to XIV century when during the reign of Charles IV the city became the residence of the Holy Roman Emperor. The plans of Charles IV included turning Prague into a major European center. In accordance with this, large-scale construction work was launched here.

In 1382, Wenceslas IV, the heir to the crown, son of Charles, moved the royal residence to the Old City. However, together with Vladislav the Jagiellonian court returned to Prague Castle in 1484. Vladislav Jagiellonian began the reconstruction of the Castle in the late Gothic style. In 1526, the Habsburgs, who rebuilt the city in the Renaissance style, took the Czech throne. In 1541, as a result of a large fire in the Castle, free space appeared for new buildings, which were carried out especially intensively during the reign of Rudolf II of Habsburg (1576-1611).

In 1620, the anti-Habsburg class uprising ended in defeat at the White Mountain. The Czech Republic lost its state independence and the Habsburg imperial court moved to Vienna. In 1753 - 1775, during the reign of Maria Theresa, major construction work in Prague Castle was carried out again. Buildings and palaces acquired features of rococo and neoclassicism. Over the next century and a half, retired and elderly autocrats of the Austrian Empire found shelter here. In 1918, Prague Castle became the seat of the head of the new state - the Czechoslovak Republic, and from January 1, 1993 - the residence of the President of the Czech Republic.

Old city. The Old Town is located on the right bank of the Vltava. It grew out of small settlements that arose at an important crossroads of trade routes between west and east and along the banks of the Vltava in the 10th century. Under King Wenceslas I, who built powerful fortifications in 1232-1234, the Old Town received city rights. In the 15th century, Czech kings moved their residence here. The most interesting attraction of this area is the Powder Tower (Prashna Brana). The architect Matej Reisek started its construction in 1475. At the end of the 13th century, a tower with a gate stood on this site - one of the 13 defensive towers of the Old Town. The Powder Tower, erected in its place, got its name at the end of the 17th century, when a gunpowder warehouse was arranged in it. In 1757, the tower was badly damaged during the siege of Prague by the Prussian army. In 1875-1886 the architect Josef Moker added a gallery and a roof to it, decorated it in the Gothic style and removed the clock. The height of the tower is 65 m. The tower gallery can be reached by 186 steps of a spiral staircase. After 1893, part of the medieval quarters of the Old Town was demolished and the territories built up anew. In the middle of the 13th century, a Jewish quarter grew up in the Old City. Jews lived apart from the Christian population, therefore they could not participate in political life cities, moreover, were often subjected to pogroms. On Czech soil, Jews received civil and political rights only in 1848. In 1850, the Prague Ghetto became one of the quarters of Prague. He was given the name "Josefov", in honor of the Austrian Emperor Joseph II, who issued the first decrees on equalizing the rights of Jews with the local population. At the turn of the 19th - 20th centuries, most of the old buildings that stood here were demolished, and multi-storey residential buildings were built in their place.

You can walk along the pedestrian Celetnaya Street to the Old Town Square. In the past, this street was part of the Royal Road, which connected the Powder Tower, Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Nerudova Street and Prague Castle. The Old Town Square (Staromestske namesti) is a very interesting cultural and historical monument, which has long been the center of political life in the Czech Republic. The history of the Old Town Hall begins in the middle of the XIV century, when the Old Town won the right to city self-government. At first, a Gothic-style corner house was used for the town hall, to which a tower was attached. In 1410, the famous chimes were installed on the tower, consisting of three parts - moving dolls, a sphere and a calendar. Every hour, the symbol of death - the skeleton - leads the procession of apostle dolls. The procession ends with a loud cry of a rooster, which at the same time flaps its wings. This performance has been shown for more than five centuries.

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Gorgeous sights of Prague. The photos with the description below will give a clear picture of where to go and what to look at. And there is something to look at, believe me.

First time in Prague? Then it's the Charles Bridge, the town hall with astronomical clock, Golden Street, Old Town Square. Do you have time to continue your inspection? Then the Singing Fountains, the Museum of Communism, the Police Museum, the Hammer Center Medieval Park and the Street Art Gallery.

Prague is good for the absence of seasonality - sightseeing is available both in summer and in winter. Unless the parks are more picturesque in summer, but in the cold season, Czech cuisine will delight.

The bridge connecting the Old Town with Malaya Side. Rebuilt 2 times since the 10th century, Charles Bridge in the 17th century was transformed into a museum under open sky decorated with historical sculptures.

The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk is the oldest and most important. The martyr was drowned in the river and, according to legend, a glow of 5 stars appeared in this place. If you ask St. John of Nepomuk for a wish, it will come true. .


Old Town Hall - a complex of houses on the Old Town Square - the oldest in Prague. The complex was not specially built. In the 14th century, the community of Stary Mesto bought a house in the early Gothic style, added a third floor and a tower to it. The second house was bought later, decorated with a Renaissance window. And so on.

The complex has 5 houses. Styles changed, but Gothic remained predominant. The town hall saw the coronations of monarchs, brutal executions and was shelled in 1945.


Staroe Mesto is the name of the Old Town. Valuable sights are located here.


Custom building by Vlado Milunich and Frank Geary. The concept of a dancing house is in the transfer of associations with a dancing couple - Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Beautiful or not, but it is remembered for a lifetime. .


On the left bank of the Vltava is the Prague Castle of the 9th century. There is no other such large-scale medieval castle. It occupies 7.28 hectares. Previously, before it there was a wooden fortress with an earthen rampart.

You can enter Prague Castle from three sides, on each side there is a changing of the guard once every 60 minutes. Admission is free, but in internal architectural structures get on the ticket.


They recognize Prague. The clock was created in 1410. Started by master Mikulash, they were completed by master Ganush. The city council blinded Ganush so that he could no longer repeat the masterpiece. In retaliation to the offenders, the master threw himself on the clock, died and stopped the mechanism for a century ahead.


Prague National Theater built throughout the country. It took 20 years to collect money, 13 to build. To enhance the symbolic meaning, the first stone of the bookmark was broken out of the Rzhip mountain. According to myths, the forefather Czech lived in the mountain. The stone was laid in 1868.


Toys from the Prague Museum are interesting even for adults. Here are collections of antique dolls, Indian bread figurines, and the oldest doll is already 2000 years old. The exposition contains 5000 copies.


Light show - Krzhizhikovy fountains, created in the XIX century. They can play both classics and something modern. After sunset, the spectacle is remembered better.


Golden Lane - central Street cities with gingerbread houses. In the Middle Ages, alchemists who worked with gold lived here - hence the name. And in one of the houses, at number 22, Franz Kafka lived.


Completed in 1992, the TV tower is recognized as the highest in the Czech Republic - 216 m. From a height of 93 m, you can go to the observation deck and admire the city.


Recognized as the most beautiful in Europe. The center of the Old Town with the monument to Jan Hus, the town hall and the Tyn Church.


Klmentinum is a complex of buildings and structures in the Baroque style. 2 hectares of the area are occupied by the Astronomical Observatory, Mirror Chapel, Mathematical Museum, University Library, Meteorological Station. The Jesuit Order made efforts to build gardens and churches on the site of the medieval chapel of St. Clement.


Landmark of the Jewish quarter in the early Gothic style of the XIII century. There is a cache with a parchment scroll of the words of Moses in Hebrew.


Prague Museum with railways cities. The exposition is strong - with the change of time of day for day and night, an interactive model of Prague, historical exhibitions, for example, with the development of the city or the flood of the Vltava River.

For adults, an expensive pleasure is 200 kroons, while for children - 30.


The temple was built for two centuries - until 1511. At first it was a Hussite church in Prague, now it is a repository of sacred artifacts - an organ, a tin font, a stone pulpit.


Romanesque religious building in Prague Castle. In 1782, the monastery turned into a barracks and became dilapidated every year. In 1963, it was reconstructed and opened to tourists.


The baroque fortress served as the residence for the first Czech king, and then turned into a museum with expositions about the history of Vyšehrad. Archaeological excavations have shown that on the territory of Visegrad there were ancient settlements dating back to 3 thousand years BC.


There is a Kinsky garden on Petrin Hill. In 1798, Ruzhena Kinsky bought a plot, and Rudolf, her son, set up a english garden- trees, paths, greenhouses. Later built summer residence Kinsky.

On a walk through the garden, admire the waterfalls descending the stairs, lakes, sandstone cliffs, the pram "Swiss", the wooden church of St. Michael, the baroque crucifix.

The central part of the park is occupied by the family palace of the Kinskys, and next to it is the gatekeeper's house. This house has a plane tree - the oldest tree of the Petrin Hill.


The Senate of the Czech Republic meets in the Wallenstein Palace, built in the 17th century. To decorate the palace, a garden was laid out, dividing it into two equal parts - a pool with a greenhouse and a parterre with a pond. The southern side of the garden is made by a human hand from stalactites. In baroque times, this was how the contrast between natural and man-made was shown.

Wallenstein Garden is used for wedding photo shoots - it's so beautiful there.


The cruelty characteristic of the Middle Ages is displayed in the Museum of Torture. The exposition shows tools and tools for atrocities. There are 60 exhibits in total, some of them were created in 1100. Heretics and witches were subjected to executions, but cruelty was also applied to thieves, traitors, unfaithful wives.


The 19th century garden of Count Silva-Taruka, who was fond of rare flowers and plants. This natural variety of colors is especially beautiful in autumn, but admire the local botany all year round. A neo-Renaissance castle is located here and you can see a collection of cones.


Having survived the change in styles of the Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo, Lubensky Castle began in the 14th century, when it could be called just a Gothic fortress. Reconstructions and rebuilding did not affect general impression from the castle. Architectural beauty allows lovers to hold weddings, and art lovers to hold concerts and exhibitions.


Hammer Center is an amusement park in the medieval style. Artists, artisans, merchants, merchants gather here to hold jousting tournaments and fairs. Entertainment is seasonal - from spring and is accompanied by themed holidays until autumn.


The Church of St. Jacob is a 14th-century baroque church. In the 17th century, the building was destroyed by fire and rebuilt. In the most beautiful church in Prague there is an organ from 1702, a statue of the Virgin Mary made of wood from the 15th century, the tomb of Count Vratislav.

A mummified hand hangs over the entrance on the right side. According to legend, the thief was trying to steal the jewels of the Virgin Mary, and she grabbed his hand. And to free himself, the thief cut off his hand.


Choco-Story has been operating since 2008. The entrance is open to everyone not only for tasting rare types of sweets, but also for studying the history of chocolate. The guides tell you the technologies of Belgian culinary specialists, show the collections of wrappers, and give you a recipe for silky chocolate.


The most mystical place in Prague. The basement of the museum was once part of an old house. On the ground floor there is a large book of acquaintance with spirits. Walking through the city of ghosts, the visitor will see Faust, gnomes, headless Laura.

Among the museums, the Czech Museum of Music, the Prague Museum of Miniatures, the Museum of the History of Medicine, the Police Museum, the Museum of Communism, the Jewish Museum, the Prague City Museum, and the Franz Kafka Museum are also considered interesting.

On this, our selection of “Sights of Prague: photos with descriptions” comes to an end. If you have been somewhere, share your impressions in the comments to the article.

Sights of Prague - the most detailed information with photo and map. What to see in Prague - TOP 10 attractions.

TOP 10 attractions in Prague

Prague has a whole scattering of magnificent sights: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square with the Tyn Church, the ancient fortress of Vysehrad. All the most famous monuments history and architecture are concentrated in the historical districts of Mala Strana, Stare Mesto and Vysehrad. Although Prague is so interesting and diverse that you can discover something new here at every step and on every visit. Everything you need to see in the capital of the Czech Republic - in our TOP-10!

Attractions

Visegrad

Vysehrad (Czech. Vyšehrad) - an ancient fortress (castle), historic district and landmark of Prague. Vysehrad is located on a hill above the Vltava south of the city center. From here you have a beautiful view of Prague.

There is also something to see in Visegrad - within the walls of the ancient fortress there are such sights as the New Gothic Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, the remains of the oldest Romanesque basilica, the Romanesque rotunda of St. Martin. Visegrad Cemetery - the burial place of famous figures of the Czech Republic.


Basilica of St. Peter and Paul at Vysehrad

The Visegrad fortress was founded around the 10th century. The legend ascribes its foundation to Prince Krok, the father of Princess Libusha. It is considered one of the centers of the Czech state along with the Prague Castle. According to the existing legend, it was here that the legendary Princess Libuše predicted the heyday and world fame of the Czech capital - Prague.

Under Vratislav II, Vyshegrad flourished. In 1070 Vratislav II founded an independent chapter of Vysehrad, independent of the Prague bishopric. Under him, the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, St. Martin's Rotunda. Czech coins were minted in Vysehrad. By the end of the 11th century, the construction of the fortifications was completed. Then the value of Visegrad fell.


In the XIV century, when Charles IV decided that Prague would become the residence of the Holy Roman Emperors. As a descendant of the Přemyslids, he tried to revive the glory of Vysehrad. Charles IV reconstructed the Royal Palace, erected new fortifications, connecting them and those built by him in Nove Mesto. On his instructions, the main approach to Prague from the south now led through Vysehrad. The church of St. Peter and Paul - on the site of the demolished old basilica, the construction of a new cathedral in the Gothic style began. In the era of Charles IV, it was from Vyšehrad that the coronation procession of Czech kings began and continued further along Nove Město, Stare Město and Mala Strana, leading to Prague Castle.

After the death of Charles IV, construction in Vysehrad almost ceased. He will never regain his former glory. In the future, Visegrad develops more like a military fortress than a city. During the Hussite Wars (1420) Vysehrad was badly damaged and deserted.

In the 17th century, Vysehrad was rebuilt in the form of a baroque fortress with thick brick walls. In 1866 the fortress was closed.

In 1883 Vysehrad was annexed to Prague, since then it has been one of its administrative regions.

Now Vysehrad is a significant monument of culture, which you should definitely visit if you are in Prague.

How to get there: Metro - line "C" station Vyšehrad. Tram - 6, 7, 18, 24; 53, 56, stop - Ostrčilovo náměstí. Bus - stop Vratislavova.

(Czech Karlův most) - the most beautiful stone bridge in Prague across the Vltava, connecting the historical districts of Mala Strana and Stare Mesto. This is one of the main attractions of Prague and probably the most beautiful stone bridge in the world. It began to be exploited as early as 1380.

According to legend, the first stone was laid in 1357 by Charles IV, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. For a long time, Charles Bridge served as a passageway for kings and delegations to Prague Castle. The entrance to the bridge is adorned on both sides by magnificent Gothic towers: the Old Town Bridge Tower (Staroměstská mostecká věž) and the Lesser Town Bridge Towers (Malostranská mostecká věž).


The bridge was designed by Charles IV. Previously, in its place was the Yuditin Bridge, which was almost completely destroyed during the flood. The remains of the Judith Bridge can be seen at the base of the pylon on which the Old Town Tower stands. The construction of the Charles Bridge lasted from 1357 until the beginning of the 15th century. The architect of the bridge was Peter Parler. The bridge tower on the Old Town bank was built by architects from the workshop of Peter Parler around 1380.

Charles Bridge is decorated with 30 unique sculptures, most of them were installed in the period from the end of the 17th to the beginning of the 18th century. These sculptures were created by the best masters of that time. Each sculpture of the bridge tells its own story. Most of the sculptures are made of sandstone. Now they are mostly exact copies of the originals, which were transferred to the National Museum in the 20th century.


Part of the architectural complex of the Charles Bridge is a monumental neo-Gothic staircase that leads directly from the bridge to the Vltava island of Kampa. This island is sometimes called the "Venice of Prague". The staircase was built in 1844 instead of the old wooden one.

Kampa Island (Czech. Kampa) is an artificial island in Prague, called the "Prague Venice". This is an amazingly picturesque and romantic place. You can get to the island of Kampa by going down the stairs from the Charles Bridge, right behind the statue of Brunswick. On the one hand, Kampa is separated by the majestic Vltava, on the other hand - Devil, one of its branches.


Kampa Island was formed around the 15th century. It was originally covered in gardens. But after a fire in 1541, from which Prague suffered greatly, the remains of damaged buildings began to be brought to the island. Due to this, it was possible to level the surface and build up the island. Artisans were the first to settle here. Behind them, wealthy people began to inhabit the island.

Now on the island of Kampa there are many cafes, restaurants with excellent views of the Vltava and Charles Bridge, many hotels. On the island, it is pleasant to stroll along the banks of the Vltava and Chertovka, admire the architecture of the buildings that are located at the very edge of the water.

The Powder Tower (Czech Prašná brána) is a majestic Gothic tower in Prague built in the 15th century. The Powder Tower is located on the Republic Square. At the gate begins the first part of the road leading to Prague Castle. The height of the powder tower is 65 m. At a height of 44 m there is an observation deck that can be climbed spiral staircase. The first stone of the tower was laid in 1475.


According to the plan of the builders, the tower was supposed to serve as a gate that led to the Old City. But these plans were not destined to come true. The king returned to Prague Castle, and the tower remained unfinished. Later, the tower received a temporary roof and served as a storehouse for gunpowder. It was then that the tower got its modern name. The tower acquired its modern neo-Gothic appearance at the end of the 19th century during a large-scale reconstruction under the direction of Josef Motzker.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle (Czech Pražský hrad) is a castle in Prague with a rich history, located on a hill that stretches from Petrin Hill. From the Prague Grazh, a wonderful view of Prague opens up. In the south, the fortress connects with the Mala Strana region, in the north it is bounded by the Deer Moat.

Prague Castle is a complex of buildings, temples and fortifications located around three main courtyards, St. George's Square and Irzhskaya Street. The main architectural attraction is the majestic St. Vitus Cathedral and the Golden Lane.


Prague Castle

Now Prague Castle is the residence of the President of the Czech Republic. Previously, the fortress was one for the Czech kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. Throughout its long history, Prague Castle has developed not only as a fortress, but also as the residence of kings, the cultural center of the entire Czech Republic.

The appearance of the fortress is connected with the emergence of Prague itself. The place for the construction of the fortress was not chosen by chance. From this point, the fortress towered over the entire valley, in which lay the most important approaches to the fords across the Vltava. These advantages turned out to be more important than the fact that the hill itself, on which Prague Castle stands, is quite closely limited by the Brusnice stream. On the opposite bank, Vysehrad arose in a similar way, but it was located on a wide hill, therefore, in terms of defense, it could not compete with Prague Castle. The first stone building on the hill was erected by Bořivoj I around 885. It was the stone church of St. Mary. In 930 Prince Wenceslas founded the St. Vitus Rotunda, the forerunner of the main cathedral of Prague Castle.


The fortress walls had not yet been built and the territory of the Prague Castle was protected by earthen ramparts, fortified with stones. Bretislav I improved their defensive properties around 1050. Near the south tower lay a stone princely palace, to the north, in place of the rotunda, a cathedral appeared, rebuilt in 1061-96 into a basilica.

The architecture of the Prague Castle intricately intertwined Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles.

The Romanesque style began to appear in the appearance of the Castle only under the Přemyslids Sobeslav I and Vladislav II. Of the fortifications, the southern fortress wall, reinforced with solid turrets, as well as the western one between the third and fourth courtyards, is best preserved. The Black Tower at the eastern end of the Castle has been completely preserved.


Prague Castle received the Gothic style under Charles IV in the 14th century. The late Gothic appearance of the Castle was during the reign of Vladislav Jagiellonian, who started an extensive restructuring in 1483. On his arrival in Prague in 1333, he began to build a Gothic two-storey palace with a throne room on the site of an old Romanesque palace that had been destroyed by a fire in 1303. A little later, the building was supplemented by the Chapel of All Saints. Most of the work was directed by Peter Parler.

Despite the fact that in the architecture of Benedict Reed the late Gothic style is pronounced, he first brought Renaissance forms to the Czech Republic. Renaissance motifs came from Italy through the work of Hungarian masters and made Prague the center of the new style in Central Europe.

In the future, the importance of Prague Castle has decreased. Construction activity subsided.

Types of excursions around Prague Castle:

  • Prague Castle (big circle) - 350 CZK,
  • Prague Castle (small circle) - 250 kroons,
  • exposition of the history of Prague Castle - 140 kroons,
  • art gallery - 150 kroons,
  • powder tower - 70 crowns,
  • large tower of St. Vitus Cathedral - 150 kroons.

(Czech Staroměstské náměstí) is an old square in Prague, located in the historical center of the city in the Stare Mesto district. Different architectural styles were intricately mixed on the square: Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo. The Old Town Square embodies the spirit of Prague, so all tourists should definitely visit here.


The square has been known since the 12th century. Then the square was a large market at the crossroads of trade routes. The square received its modern name in 1895. In the Middle Ages, royal processions passed through the square, following to the Prague Castle. Tragic events also happened: clashes, executions.

Sights of the Old Town Square Tyn Temple, Old Town Hall, astronomical clock, fountain Krotsinova Kashn, marian pillar, as well as a monument to Jan Hus.


The Old Town Square is a pedestrian zone.

The Dancing House is an office building in Prague. The building was built in the style of deconstructivism. It consists of two cylindrical towers, one of which is normal and the other is destructive. The Dancing House stands out sharply from the surrounding architecture. The dancing house resembles a dancing couple. One part of the building (the one that expands upward) symbolizes a male figure, and the second part of the building visually resembles a female figure.


The Dancing House is located in Prague 2, on the corner of Resslova and the Rasinovo embankment. The authors of the project are Croatian architect Vlado Milunich and Canadian architect Frank Gehry. Construction was carried out from 1994 to 1996.

Josefov

Josefov (Czech Josefov) is the Jewish quarter. It is located in the Prague 1 district. Until 1850 it was the center of the Jewish community. The name of the quarter comes from the name of Emperor Joseph II, who improved the life of the Jews during the reforms. The Jewish Quarter is located between the right bank of the Vltava River and the Old Town Square.


Josefov appeared in Prague in 1850 in the course of an administrative transformation. There are several interesting sights here: the Old New Synagogue, the Pinkas Synagogue, the Maisel Synagogue, the Klaus Synagogue, the High Synagogue, the Jewish Town Hall, the Jewish Cemetery of Prague.


At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, some of the old buildings were demolished, and the share of the Jewish population also gradually decreased.

Josefov is one of the most mystical districts of Prague. According to legend, it was here that the Golem was created - a man from inanimate matter (clay), animated by Kabbalists with the help of secret knowledge. And now the golem rests somewhere in the attic of the Old Synagogue.

Wallenstein Garden (Valdštejnská zahrada) is one of the most beautiful gardens located in the center of Prague. A garden appeared at the Wallenstein Palace at the beginning of the 17th century; now the Senate of the Republic is located in this quiet and cozy place. Walking through the garden, you can admire the pool, in the center of which there is a green island, and above it stands the figure of Hercules (a copy of the creation of the sculptor Adrien de Vries).


Here you can admire the golden carps in the pond and watch the free roaming peacocks. Along the alley of statues of the heroes of Greek mythology, you can go straight to the fountain "Venus", which is located near the loggia of Giovanni Pieronni, striking both with its colonnade and frescoes on the theme of the Trojan War. In the southern part of the garden, you can see an unusual wall of man-made stalactites. Nearby is an aviary with owls.

Clementium (Czech. Klementinum) is an architectural complex in Prague, located in the historic district of Stare Mesto. This is one of the largest architectural complexes city ​​second only to Prague Castle.


At first, in its place was the church of St. Clement, who took over the Dominican order in 1232. They built a monastery here and ruled it for four whole centuries, until Emperor Ferdinand I invited the Jesuits to Prague. They bought the monastery, built a library, a school and other buildings. Even though they were expelled from Prague during the uprising of 1618, they were able to return, rebuild everything and subjugate Karolium (university).

Now it houses the National Library of the Czech Republic.

Prague boasts some of the most picturesque architectural sights in Europe. Here you'll find the sprawling Prague Castle, the bustling Charles Bridge, the famous astronomical clock in the Old Town, and Frank Gehry's quirky modernist dance house.

Prague is also famous for its abundance of delicious beers, pubs and beer halls, which can also be attributed to the sights.
If you are not a fan of beer and antiquity, the capital of the Czech Republic offers an extensive cultural program - opera, symphony performances are affordable and loved by many tourists.

Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is a popular attraction in Prague, visited by thousands of people daily due to its beautiful architecture, colorful history and vibrant atmosphere. This place has not changed much since its construction in the 12th century, when it was the main market of the city.

The square is home to some of the most famous historical landmarks in the city. For example, the Old Town Hall offers a beautiful view of the city.

In 1915, a monument to the religious reformer Jan Hus was erected on the square. There are also several restaurants that overlook the square. In the warm months, verandas are installed where locals and travelers enjoy coffee or beer.
Experienced travelers assure that the Old Town Square perfect place to start your trip in Prague.

The Old Town Square can be reached from the Staromestská metro station.
Hotels in this district from Booking.com.

Tyn Church

The Tyn Church, also called the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary before Tyn, is located on the Old Town Square in Prague. The towers of the church can be seen from anywhere in Prague. The church was reconstructed between 1975 and 1993.

This attraction was built in 1385 by the Hussites, against whom the Roman Catholics took up arms. Later, Catholic Jesuits took over Tyn Church and replaced the old bell with a large statue of Mary, located between the two towers.

The towers are not symmetrical and represent the masculine and feminine parts of the world, with the larger one representing the masculine side. The Gothic style had a great influence on the construction of the church. The church is the model for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Charles Bridge (Karluv most)

Charles Bridge connects the Old Town (Old Town) and the Lesser Town ( Small Country). Visitors come here to soak up the atmosphere of the city, buy souvenirs and see the 30 holy statues that overlook it. King Charles IV commissioned the bridge in 1357, replacing the Judith Bridge, which was destroyed by a flood in 1342. The statues were created to honor the memory of the saints.

A visit to the bridge is a must, especially if you are in Prague for the first time. This attraction is best visited at dawn or in the evening, when there are no crowds of tourists and street vendors on the bridge.

Address: Between Mala Strana and the Old town.

508 Holiday Properties in Prague

Mala Strana

Sandwiched between the Vltava and Hradcany rivers, Mala Strana is the oldest district in Prague. Cobbled streets, elegant palaces and hidden gardens make this area the liveliest. The main attractions are the baroque church of St. Nicholas and the Kampa Museum of Abstract Art. Be sure to climb the observation tower on Petřín Hill for a bird's-eye view of Prague.

The streets of this place of interest are full of hotels, bars, restaurants, majestic buildings in baroque style. Houses on the streets of the quarter have heraldic emblems.

Rent a hotel room in the area by this link.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world. It serves as the residence of the Czech President and a popular tourist destination.
The attraction has been decorating Prague for more than a thousand years and occupies a huge area. The complex is included in the list of objects world heritage UNESCO, has many architectural styles, ranging from Romanesque buildings of the 10th century to Gothic structures of the 14th century. Throughout its history, the castle and the area around it have gone through extensive restoration and repair work.

On the territory of Prague Castle there is St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica and the Golden Lane, where houses represent different historical periods to show how artisans lived and worked in antiquity.

Entrance to the territory is free.
Prague Castle can be reached by metro from the Hradcany station or by tram 22 to the Pražský Hrad stop.

The complex is open daily from 18:00 to 22:00, in other historical buildings, opening hours vary depending on the season.

St. Vitus Cathedral

While the beginning of the history of St. Vitus Cathedral dates back to around 930, the church that stands today is actually the third and was built in honor of St. Vitus (patron saint of dancers, actors, comedians and epileptics). Consecrated in 1929, the cathedral has Neo-Gothic styles, along with Renaissance and Baroque details.

One of the main attractions of the cathedral is the tomb of St. John of Nepomuk, with its intricate silver ornamentation. Also, don't miss the art nouveau stained glass window by renowned Czech artist Alfons Mucha.

St. Vitus Cathedral is located in the Prague Castle complex.
Open from 9 am to 5 pm from April to October and from 9 am to 4 pm from November to March.
On Sunday, the doors of the attraction are open from 12 noon.

You can watch the outside entrance for free, but to view the entire complex, you will have to pay between 250 and 350 crowns.

National Theater

The National Theater is a great place if you want to enjoy opera, theater or ballet in Prague.
Prices vary greatly depending on the performance. If you want to save money, there is an opportunity to visit the performance in the afternoon. Most performances have English subtitles.

This cultural landmark of Prague is located near the eastern end of the Legion Bridge (most of Lechia).
The theater can be reached from the Narodni trída metro station and by tram (9, 17, 18, 22, 36, 53, 57, 58, 59 and 91 and get off at the Národní divadlo stop).
Address: Island 1

Church of St. Nicholas (Chram svateho Mikulase)

Of all the attractions in Prague, we highly recommend visiting the Church of St. Nicholas (not to be confused with the Church of St. Nicholas on the Old Town Square) located in the Lesser Town (malá strana). It stands out for its stunning baroque architecture, frescoes and classical sculpture.

Although the site of the church dates back to the 11th century, the church that stands today was not completed until 1755.

Here visitors will find the largest fresco in Europe, as well as an organ system with over 4,000 pipes played by Mozart.

Along with an active parish, about 200 concerts are held annually in the church.

Admission is 70 kr for adults and 50 kr for children and students. Children under 10 years old are admitted free. You can visit the church daily from 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from November to February).
The church holds regular free public events every Sunday at 8:30. Church of St. Nicholas is within walking distance of Prague Castle.

Address: Malostranske namesti 272/1.

Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

Josefov, Prague's historic Jewish Quarter, which houses a number of buildings, including synagogues such as the Spanish Synagogue and the Old New Synagogue.
The Jewish Cemetery is the oldest surviving cemetery of its kind, with 12,000 visible graves and countless more beneath them. Due to lack of space, the graves were arranged in 12 layers.
Josefov is located north and northwest of the Old Town (Stare mesto).

Dancing House

The unusually decorated Dance House is closed to visitors. However, travelers love to come and photograph the unique structure. The original design solutions came from Vlado Miluni in 1992 (with the help of architect Frank Gehry) and the building was completed in 1996.

The popular nicknames for this attraction are the nicknames - "Fred and Ginger" (because of the legendary dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers) and "drunk house".

The Dancing House is located in the center of Prague, near the metro station Námesti Karlovo.
Address: Rašínovo nábrezi 1981/80.

Prague Astronomical Clock

The Prague Astronomical Clock is located on the Old Town Square. They were created in 1410 by a watchmaker and professor of mathematics. The original landmark has been operating for over 600 years.

In 1865, the figures of the apostles were added, which are shown in the two upper windows every hour. The bells are ringing, the walk of the apostles begins, gothic sculptures, cock crows are moving.

These watches do not determine the exact time of day, but show Babylonian time, Old Bohemian time, German time and sidereal time. As well as sunrise and sunset, the phases of the moon and the position of the sun in the zodiacs. The attraction uses images of symbols such as a money bag representing greed, a mirror representing vanity, and a skeleton to represent death.
Every hour, the clock shows a visualization of the time.

Located on the Old Town Square, which can be reached from the Staromestská metro station.

Powder Tower

The Powder Tower was built in the 11th century. The original gate tower was one of 13 entrances to Prague's Old Town.
Work on it began during the reign of King Vladislav II in 1475. Actually, we see the results of this construction today.
Originally known as the New Tower, its name was changed to the Powder Tower in the 18th century to reflect the fact that it had been in use since around 1715 to store gunpowder.
Today, in this Prague attraction, you can see the exhibition "Prague Towers" and photographs of Ladislav Sitensky.

The building has 186 steps, climbing which you will find yourself on the observation deck, which offers stunning views of the Old City.
Open from 10:00-20:00 (March-October), 10:00-18:00 (November-February), 10:00-22:00 (April-September). Entrance to the tower is paid, adult ticket 90 kroons, preferential 65 kroons.

Address: U Prašne brány, Praha 1
Located at Náměsti Republiky metro station
You can also get there by tram: 6, 8, 15, 26, 41, 91, 94, 96. Stop Náměstí Republiky.

Kutna Hora

Kutná Hora is located 60 km from Prague. It was founded in the 14th century and was one of the richest cities in the Czech kingdom. Due to the silver reserves, the city attracted a large number of people covered by the "silver rush". The historic center of the city is made in the best examples of late Gothic. One of the city's most popular attractions is the Cathedral of St. Barbara, the patroness of miners. There are regular excursions to the city.

Read more about the ossuary in Kutno Hora in our article.

The tour includes transfer to Kutná Hora by bus, the tour is available in English, German, French, Russian, Italian and Spanish. Children under 2 years old are admitted free of charge. Tours run throughout the year, on all days except Mondays.

The duration of the trip is 5 hours.
Place of departure NÁRODNÍ Třída 38, Prague 1.

Grévin Wax Museum

Museum wax figures Grévin is an amazing place where you can have a great time with the most famous people of our planet. Thematic sections have been created in the museum: a magical laboratory, an old Prague cafe, a temple of sports, history: past and present, a magic theater, a dance hall.

In each you will meet historical celebrities. Take a selfie with Einstein, enjoy a Mozart concert, challenge Jackie Chan or flirt with Cameron Diaz. In one of the halls you will see the process of making figures, and also try to create yourself using computer graphics.

The museum has a gift shop and free Wi-Fi. The museum is open daily from 10:00-19:00.
The box office closes an hour, the last tour starts 1.5 hours before closing.
Address: Celetná 15, 110 00 Prague 1.

Brewery Klášterní pivovar Strahov

On the territory of the Strahov Monastery there is the Strahov brewery, where you can enjoy real Czech beer. It was built in 1629, and its products were created to maintain the strict Catholic positions of the monks. The waiters of the brewery speak four languages: Russian, Czech, English and German.

All year round you can enjoy amber and dark unfiltered beer. At Christmas, a semi-dark Christmas, and during the Easter period, a special unfiltered wheat drink is brewed. The most popular St. Norbert beer, the rich taste of the drink will appeal to everyone.
The restaurant at the brewery can be attributed to the main beer attractions in Prague.

Read more about our visit to the brewery on this page.

Based on our impressions, we can say that the place is decent, the beer is beyond praise, the food is edible, the prices are moderate.

The brewery is open every day from 10:00-22:00.
And it is located at Strahovské nádvoří 301.

magic cave

The old mill has been converted into cave world fantasies by one eccentric artist.
The Prague artist Reon Argondian (born Jan Zahradnik) created the Kingdom of Argondia, located on the territory of the mill, with his imagination, transferred to paintings and sculptures.

Among the forests that cover Petřín, a small hill in Prague, Rheon created his psychedelic art empire. Artist and sculptor, Reon (as he prefers to call himself), covered every wall in the building with colorful hand-painted facades, transforming his home's interior into an otherworldly cave system he dubbed Argondia.

Each surface has a rough but natural look to the stone, with large decorative roots protruding at irregular angles, giving the feeling of visiting not a museum, but a fantasy tale.

But that's not all: Reon made a full-length gallery out of his abode. Quite strange paintings and sculptures of Rheon hang on each rocky wall. The female figures on his canvases are depicted in crazy-bright colors, the rocky columns in his vision are unnatural Roman busts of sea unicorns, and the load-bearing beams in his monastery are carved in the form of caryatids.

Reon claims that every meter in his Magic cave was his personal vision and there was no external inspiration.

Address: Petřínské sady 417/5, 110 00 Praha 1.

Torture Museum

For tourists tired of the beauty of Prague, we suggest visiting one of the sights that show the dark side of the history of this city.

The museum has more than 100 exhibits showing the practice of torture in medieval and early modern Europe.

A short walk from Prague's Old Town Square, on the east side of Charles Bridge, is a landmark from the Czech Republic's dark past, a three-story museum displaying various torture instruments used in Europe to torture heretics, "witches", political rebels, " scapegoats", gluttons, not enough good artists, talkative women and other "enemies of the state" of those times.

The Museum of Torture has collected more than 60 tools, among them the “iron maiden” (known as the Virgin of Nuremberg), a skull crusher, a Spanish boot, a spiked chair, chastity belts and a very large number of iron masks, and variations of tongs designed to publicly humiliate sinners from different walks of life will break all your imagination.

Cartoons hanging next to the tools medieval style, as well as instructions for using the weapon with pictures in eight different languages.

Address: Celetna 558/12, 110 Stare Mesto.

Museum of Miniatures

The Museum of Miniatures in Prague presents tiny works by Russian artist Anatoly Konenko from Siberia, the city of Omsk. Anatoly Kononenko is one of the few professional mini-miniaturists in the world. His work ranges from the "standard" such as Henri Matisse's "Dance" on a 10mm x 10mm sliver of mammoth ivory to more whimsical creations such as a caravan of camels on the tip of a needle.

Konenko always takes an object that we can identify - a seed, an insect, a needle, a hair - and breathes life into it. The microminiaturist allows himself to be inspired by the object, plays with its idea and changes the way we understand it, and we see it from a different perspective. For example, one of the most impressive works is a flea, a simple flea, but its paws-legs are in horseshoes, and in its paws-handles are tiny scissors, a key and a lock.

To create scissors with a diameter of 0.9 mm, the master, like most microminiaturists, invented his own tools, some of them are even used in eye operations. Like other microminiaturists, he can only work between the beats of his own heart, fearing a slight tremor that would destroy the master's precious work.

Address: Strahovsky Monastery Square (Tram No. 22, 23).

Franz Kafka, one of Prague's most famous literary sons (but who only became so after his death), suffered from self-doubt and depression throughout his life.

This mirror, kinetic sculpture of the writer's head reflects his state, shows all kinds of turns in the writer's thoughts. His face is in its entirety only for a moment or two, then begins to crumble into layers.

Created by artist David Cherny, the bust is made up of 42 different layers that rotate on their own trajectory. Each layer is mechanized, moves using gears.

The attraction is located next to the insurance company in the center of Prague, where Kafka spent his working day. Cherny, the author of his famously provocative montages, was so pleased with the result of Franz Kafka's Head that he made another copy in North Carolina. But instead of the famous author's head, he made a bust in the shape of his own head.

Address: 5 Charvatova, Prague, 110 00.

sex machine museum

Near the Old Town Square, if one wishes to "dive" into the subject, there is a museum full of various sexual devices and contraptions designed to satisfy sexual pleasure.

Perhaps these erotic objects seem a little faceless, and sometimes you can’t even imagine what this or that object is used for, don’t worry, in the museum they will show you how this model is assembled and demonstrate its purpose.

Opening its doors in 2002, it is by far the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to sex machines and everything related to it.

The museum has more than 200 fixtures, it occupies three large floors. Along with copulation tables, iron corsets, and assorted stimulants, you'll find a small number of sex-related artifacts, some dating back to the early 16th century.

There are shoes worn by ancient Greek prostitutes, sexy photographs, a contraption for satisfying the "unbridled desires" of imprisoned women in German prisons, and even some of the earliest and earliest porn films.

Of course, the museum has become popular since its opening, but city officials considered it "indecent". Unsurprisingly, this made him even more attractive.

Location of this attraction: Melantrichova 476/18, 110 00 Staré Město.

Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague

Prague is a city whose history is either very well known or unfamiliar to many. The dark side of the past of the Czech capital is clearly expressed in the memorable expositions of the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague.

As king of much of Eastern Europe and Holy Roman Emperor in the 16th century, Rudolph II was not a particularly effective ruler, but he is well remembered for his interest in and patronage of the occult arts.

It was during his reign that he turned Prague into the unofficial capital of the dark arts. He funded alchemists and so-called "sorcerers", most notably the likes of Edward Kelly and John Dee, perhaps Rudolf II created the most active period of occult practice in its history.

Whether its patrons were mere charlatans who surrounded themselves with mysticism (which was obvious) or bold pioneering scientists, the legacy of these magicians and lunatics is remembered by the exhibits presented at the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Old Prague.

Consisting of two levels of displays and tables, the exhibits provide an opportunity to trace the history of alchemists, especially Kelly.

On the first floor of the museum there are interactive displays and reproductions of artifacts of this craft, as well as such fantastic expositions, when the failed magician is stolen by the Devil and his legs stick out of the ceiling, and below at this time, bending over the luminous runes, magicians and sorcerers mumble spells.

On the second floor, which is actually the tower where the famous alchemist Kelly performed his esoteric experiments, the alchemist's laboratory is displayed, all the old scrolls of paper and stacked grimoires (magic books), and next to it is a half-created creature - a homunculus, the greatest alchemical achievement.

Address: Jánský vršek 8, 118 00 Malá Strana.

Old Jewish cemetery


12,000 tombstones in this cemetery that destroy time and ivy. 100,000 people rest under these slabs, sometimes several bodies in one grave and up to 12 layers deep.

This is not the first Jewish cemetery in Prague, but it is the oldest in the city. The first burial dates back to 1439, although the cemetery was most likely in use long before that. One of the last burials dates back to 1787.

Burials here ceased when a new decree went into effect banning burials in cemeteries in residential areas due to health risks. In the notoriously filthy district of Josefov, where the Jewish cemetery is located, serious efforts have been made to clean up and renovate it.

Part of the cemetery was moved beyond the New Place, which meant that the dead and their tombstones were exhumed and moved to places where burials had already been made.

There are more than 12,000 tombstones in the cemetery, and it is believed that about 100,000 people were buried under them, in some places the bodies were stacked in 12 layers. Jewish custom forbids the destruction of old graves, so the dead were simply buried one above the other for centuries.

Since Prague was the center of Jewish scholasticism in Eastern Europe, it is not surprising that some of the first famous figures of Jewish history are buried here. Rabbi Yehuda Loew ben Bezalel, main character myth of the golem, is buried under a richly decorated lion - a sand-colored tombstone. Astronomer David Hans has a Star of David on his grave and a goose on it.

During the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, historical synagogues and other objects were destroyed. However, the Old Jewish Cemetery and thousands of artifacts collected Jewish Museum escaped this fate. It is believed that the Nazis wanted to save these items for the "Museum of the Extinct Race" in Prague, which would tell people about the Jewish race that was destroyed by the Aryans. Fortunately, the idea of ​​such a museum was not realized, and the cemetery, along with the artifacts of the Jewish Museum, were saved.

Today, visitors can pay their respects to the thousands buried in the Old Jewish Cemetery on tours offered by the Jewish Museum in Prague.

Address: Široká, 110 00 Staré Město.

Hop On Hop Off Bus Sightseeing Tour

The most convenient way to see the sights of Prague in one day. You can get off the bus at any stop, see the sights and continue the route.

During the trip, which lasts about 90 minutes, you will see such places as the Old Town Square, Masaryk Station, Mala Strana, Prague Castle, Strahov Monastery, Strahov Stadium, Kampa Islands, Main Station.

Buses depart every 45 minutes from the Old Town Square from 10 am.
During the trip, a Russian audio guide is available to you. A ticket purchased online is valid for a year.

Prague attractions on the map:


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Prague, an amazingly beautiful city, so harmoniously combining several eras and architectural styles, old and new, where monumental buildings, temples and palaces intersect with colorful low buildings, producing completely different, but undoubtedly amazing impressions.

The main part of the sights of Prague is located in the historical center, the old part of the city. It is this part of the city that is riddled with secrets and mysteries. It is here that the most striking architectural structures that have absorbed history and different destinies are located.

You can walk in this part of Prague indefinitely, constantly discovering something new and unknown.

There are many temples, squares, palaces and cathedrals in the old center of Prague. Here everyone will find something to see and where to go. As well as everyone will discover their favorite places and sights, which, of course, will differ from the list of main attractions that are listed in most guidebooks.

So Prague did not bypass us and left an indelible imprint.

In this article, we will talk about the most, in our opinion, interesting sights of the city, which made the most positive impression on us, and which we still, almost a year after we visited Prague, remember with awe and love.

So,

Sights of Prague

Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is undoubtedly one of the main, most beautiful and fabulous squares in Prague.

It was this square that absorbed all possible eras and generations. In addition, the square is perhaps the largest and most visited in Old Prague.

Life is constantly in full swing on the square, local residents and tourists walk around, concerts and performances are held, and street performers amuse even people with their amusements, naturally, counting on a modest reward as a token of gratitude. There are also many souvenir shops and a variety of street food.

A large part of the most famous sights of Prague is concentrated on the Old Town Square, of which:

1. Old Town/City Hall. It is on this town hall, the clock tower, that one of the most famous clocks in the world, the Orloj astronomical clock, is located. The Old Town Hall, together with the Orloj clock, is not only the main attraction of the square, but of the whole of Prague, if not the Czech Republic.

2. The main dominant of the square - Tyn Temple. Two asymmetrical towers of the temple, which became such after a strong fire, are one of the main symbols of Prague. It is these two towers, as often as the Orloj clock, that can be seen on many postcards and magnets sold in the Czech Republic as souvenirs.

3. Palace of Kinsky, is one of the most memorable buildings on the square

4. Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, one of the most famous Prague churches. The main values ​​and dominants of the temple are: the dome of the temple with a diameter of 20 meters and internal height 49 meters and a unique crystal chandelier in the form of an imperial crown, which adorns the vault of the interior.

5. And the center of the square decorates bronze monument in Art Nouveau style, dedicated to the national hero of the Czech Republic Jan Hus.

In addition to the mass of the main city attractions, the Old Town Square is surrounded by city houses with facades one more beautiful than others, intertwining several architectural styles.

Clementinum

Clementinum is large complex baroque buildings, most of which were built by the order of Jesuit monks, who had the Dominican monastic order located in this complex.

Clementinum, like the Old Town Square, has incorporated several fundamental sights, for which hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world flock to its walls every year:

1. One of the most beautiful buildings of Clementinum - Jesuit Church of the Savior- the church of St. Salvator, with a facade overlooking the square near the Charles Bridge.

2. One of the most beautiful libraries in the world - baroque library hall / clementinum library, which is part of the National Library. We have all repeatedly admired the photos of this particular library on social networks.

3. Observation deck of the Clementinum Astronomical Tower. The views of Prague from a bird's eye view are simply magical, red tiled roofs everywhere and narrow streets of old Prague.

The Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge, a giant pride, one of the symbols of the city and the most visited attraction in Prague. The two sides of the bridge are decorated tall towers, and the bridge itself is decorated with sculptures and compositions of statues of saints.

On the bridge, street musicians entertain honest people, hoping, of course, for a good reward. And from morning to evening there is a lively trade from tents with various souvenirs.

Charles Bridge hides a lot of mysteries and magic. Magic, in the truest sense of the word. The fact is that the bridge has a very clean energy, and there are several places on the bridge where you can make the most secret desires. They say that it is the positive energy of the bridge that contributes to the speedy implementation of the plan.

Devil

Devil! Amazing and mysterious name most narrow street Prague.

This street is famous for the fact that it is almost impossible for two people, even thin ones, to part ways on it. For the convenience of passers-by, so that there is no embarrassment and two pedestrians do not collide head-on, a traffic light is installed on the street. On both sides of the traffic light has buttons, you approach, press, green lights up, and on the opposite side a red signal lights up.

And why is this cute little street called Chertovka, and why is it so narrow... interesting questions! We talked about these secrets of the street in detail in the article.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is the pearl of Prague in the truest sense of the word. Any tourist who comes to Prague will not bypass and look into the Prague Castle. Required Program for any tourist excursions and trips, and it's not in vain.

Currently Prague Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the world. For centuries, Prague Castle has been the residence of Czech kings and later presidents. The total area of ​​the complex is 45 hectares, which housed towers, picturesque narrow streets and gardens, as well as palace, office, fortification and religious buildings, most of which currently house various museums and expositions.

Like most of the monumental sights of Prague, Prague Castle includes a whole range of attractions:

1. The dominant feature of Prague Castle is the famous and majestic Cathedral of St. Vitus, Wenceslas and Vojtech. It is St. Vitus Cathedral that is clearly visible from almost all points of the historical center of Prague.

2. Yirzhskaya Square located in Prague Castle, behind St. Vitus Cathedral. The main buildings of the square are the St. Basilica and St. George's Monastery.

3. golden lane or as it is also called Golden Lane. This small street with a collection of tiny colored houses has a fabulous look.

4. Bronze statue of a naked youth. The monument is always crowded, and its dignity is rubbed to a shine, because every self-respecting tourist considers it his duty to take a picture with a naked young man, while touching his causal place.

Petrin Hill and Petrin Lookout Tower

Petřín Hill or Petřín, is located in the very center of Prague on the left bank of the Vltava River and is not only the highest hill in the Czech capital, but also one of the main attractions of Prague.

The main attractions of the hill are its famous green gardens And Petrin Tower, which is a small copy of the Eiffel Tower.

At the very top of the tower is Observation deck, which offers a beautiful panorama of almost the whole of Prague.

And at the bottom of the hill, the first thing that meets you is monument to the victims of the communist regime. The memorial is a series of statues descending from steps dedicated to the memory of the victims of communist rule between 1948 and 1989. It must be admitted that this monument makes an indelible impression.

Wenceslas Square

Wenceslas Square is the largest and most famous square not only in the Czech capital, but also one of the largest squares in the world.

The whole charm of the square is that it does not look like a square, in the usual sense of the word, it rather resembles a boulevard, in the center of which there is a walking area, and on both sides there are roadways and sidewalks.

The main decorations of Wenceslas Square are monument Prince of Czech, heavenly patron of the country - Saint Wenceslas and a monumental building flaunting behind it National Museum of Prague. These two attractions are located on a hill, so they create a truly amazing sight.

Republic Square

Republic Square, another historical square Prague, which is always crowded. This square is attractive in that it is located, as it were, on the border of the Old and New Towns and personifies the unity of old and modern Prague.

It is from here that most Prague guides advise you to start exploring the Czech capital and the Old Town.

On Republic Square you can see two dominants, which are among the most beautiful buildings in Prague, this is the pearl of Prague architecture - Public (Municipal) house And old Powder Tower, from which the historical district of Prague, Stare Mesto, originates.

Embankments of Prague

There are quite a few embankments in Prague, because the Vltava River flows in the middle of the city, along the banks of which the main life of the city is concentrated.

However, among all the embankments of the city, there are two most picturesque Prague embankments, they are also one of the brightest streets in Prague - these are the Masaryk or Masaryk and Rashinov embankments.

Embankments are primarily attractive for their architectural masterpieces in Art Nouveau style, where one building is more beautiful than another.

On the embankment of Masaryk, the majestic National Prague Theater, which is the main theater not only in Prague, but throughout the Czech Republic.

dancing House

Another pride of Prague, located on the aforementioned Rašinovai embankment, is a modern building of interesting architectural style- The dancing house, which at one time caused a wide resonance among the masses of the local population.

The Prague Dancing House is also called the crooked house or the drunken house, and the locals first jokingly called it the dancing couple "Ginger and Fred", and after that the name stuck and began to be used everywhere.

There is nothing unique or special about this house. An interesting solution, a voluminous building of curved lines, rather dusty and faded in appearance, standing at the intersection of streets, among the usual Prague architecture. Unless, but how many such interesting buildings are there in the world and how often can one see such architectural lines?

Head of Kafka

Sculpture in the form of a huge head sticking out of the ground.

The whole essence and spectacle of the head lies in the fact that it is divided into separate plates-disks moving independently of each other, that is, randomly, around their own axis. After a transformation and a few rotations, the sculpture discs return to their original position and form the familiar image of Franz Kafka in three-dimensional space.

It seems nothing special, the head itself and the head. But its huge size and chaotic rotation of parts look cool. This is perhaps one of the most interesting monuments in the center of Prague.

street food

Naturally, Prague's street food is not a tourist attraction. However, the peculiarity of Prague, but such that it is time to raise it to the rank of attractions.

What kind of street food is not here: sweets, meat, pastries, side dishes, and of course beer. And most importantly, all this is insanely delicious, deliciously delicious. We especially liked the huge shank marinated in beer and roasted on a spit over coals and sweet hot trdeliki. And what smell is spread from all this variety of food, a breathtaking, even well-fed person is unlikely to be able to resist, we definitely could not))

Or maybe you have your favorite places in Prague? Maybe it's some secluded street or an old unsightly building, or maybe a little-known pavement or a small cathedral... Tell us about your favorite places in Prague that have become its main attractions for you personally or played a significant role in your destiny... maybe it happened there your most intimate meeting, it was there that you made a fateful decision, or simply about that place that, for reasons that are incomprehensible, even for yourself, sunk into your soul so strongly and for a long time!

Or maybe everything is completely fabulous and mysterious for you, and for you the best “attraction” of Prague is some dish or drink, or maybe a smell or a person!

Let's move away from the concepts and stereotypes familiar to us and plunge into fairy world Prague. After all, the city deserves it, right?!

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